Posted by: John S Kiernan

Graduation season is a time of big dreams and high pressure for soon-to-be job seekers across the country. But finding employment is no small task. And what many job-market entrants ultimately seek is a career, not just a job. They want the attractive combination of a high starting salary and high growth for compensation and responsibility. They also want stability while doing what they love. The question is how to go about obtaining such things in this über-competitive job market.

In search of answers and actionable information for the Class of 2018, WalletHub took stock of the first-timer job market by comparing 109 entry-level positions based on 13 key metrics. Our data set ranges from median starting salary to projected job growth by 2026 to median tenure with employer. Check out the complete breakdown of our findings, expert job-hunting advice and a full description of our methodology below.

1. Main Findings
2. Ask the Experts
3. Methodology

Main Findings

Best First Jobs

Overall Rank (1=Best)	Job Type	Total Score	‘Immediate Opportunity’ Rank	‘Growth Potential’ Rank	‘Job Hazards’ Rank
1	Systems Engineer I	78.90	2	23	37
2	Engineer I	78.76	5	16	37
3	Electrical Engineer I	78.40	9	32	14
4	Hardware Engineer I	75.44	14	35	37
5	Web Applications Developer I	74.52	19	28	20
6	Env., Health, and Safety Engineer I	74.29	20	15	37
7	Electronics Engineer I	74.03	25	18	14
8	Certified Nursing Assistant (Nursing Home)	72.54	18	48	29
9	Industrial Engineer I	71.79	26	23	37
10	Architect I	71.33	16	8	60
11	Operations Research Analyst I	71.16	49	5	16
12	Database Administrator I	71.08	42	7	17
13	Software Engineer I	70.56	3	10	73
14	Safety Representative I	70.33	1	55	58
15	Aerospace Engineer I	69.87	38	13	37
16	Systems Administrator I	68.74	15	12	70
17	Attorney I	68.43	17	1	94
18	Designer I - Web	67.97	50	28	17
19	Materials Engineer I	67.59	10	20	86
20	Systems Engineering Technician I	67.50	34	41	47
21	Financial Analyst I	67.49	6	40	78
22	Training Specialist I	67.41	4	44	74
23	Mechanical Engineer I	66.67	12	21	93
24	Network Engineer I	66.53	7	47	70
25	Safety Technician I	64.84	11	51	66
26	Benefits Analyst I	64.78	23	71	22
27	Industrial Designer I	64.29	72	37	33
28	Programmer I	63.92	47	61	20
29	Writer I - Web	63.84	83	33	32
30	Tax Attorney I	63.83	28	1	94
31	Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant	63.62	53	52	30
32	Chemist I	62.83	58	27	55
33	Employment Law Attorney I	62.83	36	1	94
34	Interior Designer I	62.74	90	34	33
35	Patent Attorney I	62.26	40	1	94
36	Chemical Technician I	62.22	43	59	43
37	Market Research Analyst I	62.02	54	58	22
38	Microbiologist I	61.51	98	11	53
39	Industrial Engineering Technician I	61.22	84	41	47
40	Chemical Engineer I	61.06	33	9	86
41	Employee Relations Specialist I	60.52	71	57	22
42	Computer Operator I	60.22	37	78	4
43	Secretary I	60.19	21	104	8
44	Credit Analyst I	59.98	31	85	25
45	Civil Engineer I	59.89	29	17	99
46	Geophysicist I	59.34	55	53	1
47	Environmental Engineering Technician I	59.15	88	50	43
48	General Maintenance Worker I	59.04	22	74	59
49	Network Service Representative I	58.97	59	64	17
50	Biologist I	58.94	91	46	53
51	Mechanical Engineering Technician I	58.26	77	60	43
52	Installation & Maintenance Technician I	58.21	13	67	65
53	New Accounts Representative I	57.18	24	107	9
54	Accountant I	56.95	8	89	78
55	Landscape Architect I	56.88	87	22	60
56	Records Clerk	56.77	45	93	9
57	Environmental Engineer I	56.75	39	19	103
58	Budget Analyst I	56.51	30	106	25
59	Information Security Analyst I	56.07	32	38	103
60	Logistics Analyst I	55.93	61	30	74
61	Underwriter (Life) I	55.31	66	81	25
62	Logistics Clerk	55.22	74	30	74
63	Geotechnical Engineer I	54.83	67	25	86
64	Claims Adjuster I	54.65	65	80	36
65	Consumer Credit Analyst I	54.64	69	85	25
66	Buyer I	54.60	35	63	74
67	Geologist I	54.59	97	53	1
68	Biomedical Engineer I	54.30	82	14	86
69	Mine Engineer I	54.15	76	25	86
70	Mechanical Drafter I	54.07	92	75	47
71	Architectural Drafter I	53.52	100	66	43
72	Electrical Engineering Technician I	53.09	64	87	47
73	Environmental Planner I	53.04	46	39	103
74	Telecommunications Technician I	52.75	48	62	66
75	Teaching Assistant (College)	52.55	95	79	31
76	Electrician I	52.33	96	36	66
77	Network Planning Analyst I	52.30	57	56	70
78	Civil Engineering Technician I	52.10	86	77	47
79	Public Relations Specialist I	51.80	81	45	85
80	Accounting Clerk I	51.59	68	103	7
81	Technical Librarian I	51.18	79	88	52
82	Electric/Electronics Technician I	50.97	63	82	57
83	Drilling Engineer I	49.96	51	6	103
84	Payroll Clerk	49.85	85	105	12
85	Plumber I	49.82	107	49	63
86	Technical Writer I	49.15	70	94	1
87	Financial Reporting Accountant I	48.32	41	89	78
88	Policy Processing Clerk	48.10	101	101	4
89	Consumer Loan Officer I	47.79	75	65	78
90	Benefits Administrator I	47.59	27	97	91
91	Teller I	47.16	80	109	12
92	Computer Numeric Control Machine Programmer I	46.95	94	43	101
93	Claims Processing Clerk	46.66	105	101	4
94	Consumer Loan Servicing Clerk I	46.65	106	98	9
95	Cost Accountant I	44.54	60	89	78
96	Tax Accountant I	44.51	62	89	78
97	Electronics Assembler I	43.90	102	108	35
98	Emergency Dispatcher	43.37	99	68	92
99	Machinist I	43.23	73	76	98
100	Sheetmetal Mechanic I	42.90	108	72	56
101	Refinery Operator I	41.23	103	83	64
102	Automotive Mechanic I	40.14	52	73	102
103	Aircraft Painter I	39.40	89	99	84
104	Building Inspector	38.95	104	95	62
105	Tool and Die Maker I	38.85	78	96	100
106	Carpenter I	38.55	44	70	103
107	Boilermaker I	35.34	93	69	103
108	Floor Assembler I	34.89	109	84	66
109	Welder I	33.54	56	100	103

 

Ask the Experts

The job market can be a very confusing place for new entrants. For tips that will help young people make the best possible career decisions, we asked the following questions to a panel of career counselors and human-resource experts. You can check out their bios and responses below.

1. How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry-level job is likely to result in a career versus a dead end?
2. How long should a new graduate stay in an entry-level job before looking for new opportunities?
3. What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paying opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?
4. What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

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• Amanda Walker Director of Career Services at Austin Peay State University
• Robert Penkala Director of Career Services at Macomb Community College
• Andrew Henck Adjunct Professor in the Department of Leadership and Organizational Psychology and Director of the Center for Career and Calling at Azusa Pacific University
• Leslie Scheck Career Coach and Associate Director of Career Advising & Education at Augustana College
• Gary Swisher Director of Career Development at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
• Karina Clennon Assistant Director of the Career Development Center at Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Elisabeth Giglio Director of Career Development at Bard College
• Aaron Meyer Director of Career Development at the University of Minnesota Crookston
• Cynthia Favre Director of Career Development at Gustavus Adolphus College
• Pamela M. Folger Director of the Career Center at Millikin University
• Julie Goley Director of Career Services at Augusta University
• Mary Toso Director of Internships and Career Development at Augustana University

Amanda Walker Director of Career Services at Austin Peay State University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

The job description will most likely not advertise this type of information. The applicant will have to do some research to determine the company’s organizational structure (levels above the position applying for), possibly research the leadership of the company to determine how long they have been in their current position with the company, whether or not they were promoted from within or came from another company, and honestly, ask about opportunities to grow with the company during the interview -- these are a few of the best ways to determine whether or not it’s a dead-end job or not. This research can be found usually on the company’s website or via LinkedIn.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

I have always said it depends on two things: if you are being challenged and have opportunities to learn new things. I am a big proponent of not jumping ship prior to two years. The reason being that a new hire should be still learning about the company and beginning to form a network within the first year. The second year is used to prove what you have learned on the job and from your supervisor (good and bad ones). You set the tone for how the employer sees your work and your potential contribution to the company in year two (in year one, you are still considered the newbie). Ideally, three years is a good mark to start looking; however, if you are not being challenged or you are not given opportunities to learn new things, it’s time to start job searching.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

Unfortunately, a lot of great companies/organizations are startups or non-profits. I think the graduate must analyze the job description and see which opportunity is going to allow them to gain more hands-on experience and skill sets than looking at the salary. If you were given an entry level job with a startup tech company that allowed you to manage the website, recruit new accounts, and develop new processes or company services vs. a standard industry job with a tech company which has a big name but all you did all day was manage the website traffic and assist with customer issues, it’s obvious you have to go where you get more marketable experiences. The salary is tempting, but you have to think about your next move, and gaining experiences in multiple areas of a tech company is more desirable than just one or two major experience opportunities.

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

I don’t know that an entire sector will disappear, but how we purchase things may change. Retail stores and traditional groceries will take a hit. I see the traditional brick-and-mortar shopping to disappear. I think everything will move online and be delivered or picked up.

Robert Penkala Director of Career Services at Macomb Community College

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

One way to tell is the quality of the job posting. Does it give clear and concise job tasks to help the job seeker understand the level of responsibility? It’s also a strong indication if, in the qualifications section, it is stated that the company is willing to hire individuals with limited experience and train them to advance their skill set, allowing them to move on to the next level.

Including a starting salary is important for a candidate to determine if what the employer is willing to pay is within the appropriate range for entry level, possessing the candidates’ education and experience level.

A brief job description, with limited information, can be an immediate indication of the employer’s lack of seriousness towards selecting a qualified candidate that best matches the organization’s long-term staffing plan.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

In today’s job market, candidates are often presented with a number of quality opportunities for entry level and future advancement. This makes it difficult to determine a specific time frame for new employees to remain in their entry-level position. The drive of new employees to learn as much as possible and make a significant contribution to the organization in a short period of time helps them to prepare for their next career move.

An important aspect of first-time employment for career professionals is to understand the learning curve in any position or organization and remain focused on gaining as many transferrable skills as possible. Then, it will be time to begin the job search again.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

Anyone preparing a pathway for a professional career should strive to secure employment in their field of study as soon as possible. Working in their preferred industry is beneficial and provides an opportunity to experience the world of work beyond their academic coursework. This experience helps build a marketable resume that will pioneer them forward into their career. Relevant work experience is valued by employers as they seek entry-level candidates for their open positions.

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

The world we live in is changing rapidly. Rarely do we find complete jobs, sectors or industries disappearing. Significant changes have and will continue to occur; however, in most cases, some of the industry, as we know it today, still remains. To predict the future is tricky, but to predict the job outlook and the change in a specify type of position is a more realistic projection. The world of work and what new employees need to prepare for in terms of marketable skills continues to change every day.

Andrew Henck Adjunct Professor in the Department of Leadership and Organizational Psychology and Director of the Center for Career and Calling at Azusa Pacific University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

The problem with most job descriptions is that they are often just a collection of characteristics for a Wonder Woman or Superman from a variety of different people who interact with the role. An interview is an opportunity to dig deeper and discover a bit more about the career potential at that company or organization. When you are discerning future career growth opportunities, it's important for job seekers to inquire about professional development support, mentoring options and other learning resources to support employees at work.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

The important thing for students and recent graduates to remember is that entry-level jobs are just that -- the start of your working career. Most research today is showing that people will experience on average 8-10 different careers in their lifetime. In light of the new realities in our changing world of work, it's important to remember that what you do right after graduation, most likely, won't be the only thing you do for the rest of your career. If you're in an entry-level job that is giving you good experience that you enjoy, with a manager who supports your learning and development, this is a good thing. If this isn't the case for you, continue getting that work experience and build new connections for what could lie ahead.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

Maslow had it right with the hierarchy of needs -- it's an important reminder as you discern next steps in your professional career. If you can make the less-than-ideal salary feasible, even for a season, you can hit the ground running. At the same time, if you need to be in a different industry for a short time, the power of networking can benefit you as you work your way into the preferred next step in your career. Reach out to someone in your dream line of work, ask for an informational interview and see how you can work your way into what could be a future job.

Leslie Scheck Career Coach and Associate Director of Career Advising & Education at Augustana College

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Often, a job description is not going to be the best place to find this information -- it rather comes for the research into the company. Taking a look at the company website can often provide insight into their culture. If you find that their website has information about professional development and training, most likely they are investing in you as an employee and want you to grow with the company. You can also do research on sites like Glassdoor, which have company reviews from employees that can provide insight into this information. If you see that there is a lot of feedback on employees having no place to move up, that is probably a sign that this company will not result in a long-term career.

The final way to determine is doing research on LinkedIn. See if you have a connection that works at the company and conduct an informational interview that includes questions about upward mobility. Not only will that give insight into the company in terms of career growth, but also provide you will great information for your resume, cover letter, and interview. You can also use LinkedIn to find current and former employees to see what their path in the company has been. Take a look at their profile to see what their career path is. You may find that the company is a good jumping off point for another career, which is perfectly fine, or you may find that most of the employees grow within the company.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

This is always a tricky question, especially since the millennials that are entering the workforce are given the stereotype of “job hoppers” and not being loyal to companies. New graduates want to demonstrate their dedication to current and future employers, but often have to do what is best for their career. What is best for their career can often be finding another job, but that is not always the case. For their future career prospects, I would say that 2-3 years is the ideal timeline for an entry-level job.

If a new graduate is feeling unsatisfied with their job, the first step should not be going out to apply for jobs right away. First, I would recommend reaching out to a mentor or a trusted colleague that has been at the company longer or is in a similar field or industry. Discuss their concerns and hopefully you can get some strategies for how to boast their passion for their job. If that doesn’t work, I recommend having a professional conversation with their supervisor or human resources to discuss the issues to see if there is a way to fix it, or if there is a better fit within the organization. Know that the decision to talk to their supervisor and/or human resources should be dependent on the culture and personality of those individuals. Often, employers want to keep their employees because of the time and money it costs for training and development, so they may provide some strategies or changes that will make their job a better fit. Ultimately, if none of these strategies work, it may be time to find another position.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

There are a lot of factors that you want to consider when choosing a job -- not just salary. If you are choosing between different opportunities, these are the things you want to consider:

• Benefits: some organizations may not have large starting salaries, but have benefits that offset that salary. When you receive an offer from a company, before you accept, you should ask for a written letter of the salary and then the benefits package. This will provide information about insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and other information that will give you a full view of working at an organization. You can then compare your offers to each other to see which one is a better fit.
• Professional development/training: this is really important if you are in a career or industry that requires some sort of certification or training hours. If an organization is going to provide this training and certification for you as part of your job, that can be really beneficial when it comes to your long-term career.
• Upward mobility: if the starting salary of your preferred industry job offer is not comparable to another, make sure you are asking and doing research to see if there is a clear path and ability to move up in the company. You may have to put in some time in a lower-level job to prove yourself and get good experience before your more preferred job is available to you. Everyone has to start at the bottom, but if the company hires within and focuses on employer development, then you know this job is a potential means to an end. The lower salary will make it worth it.
• Current financial situation: you may be in a place where you can't be picky on starting salary because of your financial obligations. Make sure you are thinking about your budget and income so you know what you need to make. Some people are able to take a lower salary right out of school because they don't have loans, are living in a place with a lower cost of living, or just have the flexibility to make less. Having a good idea of what your budget is can help to make an informed decision.
• Future goals: as I said before, everyone has to start at the bottom and prove your worth, develop skills, and gain experience. If this is an opportunity that is going to provide the experience that you need for a future career, then take the unpaid or low-paid job if you have that option. This is why internships can be some important in school because this does provide the opportunity to do these experiences when you have more flexibility.
• Research your industry: when you are thinking about a certain career or industry, you want to make sure you do as much research as possible to know what the current trends are in your industry and what they value. You will find that some industries prefer their specific knowledge and experience, which means taking a lower-paid position in that industry is more valuable than just having any experience. Other industries are going to be more flexible in what experience you have and look for people with different skill sets. This means you can take a different path after graduation and then eventually move your way into that industry. It is important to interview people in your industry to find these answers out.

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

The world of work is changing every day, with career paths disappearing, and new careers will be available in the next 5-10 years that we haven’t even imagined yet. In order to stay successful in the world of work, it is important to constantly do research and build your skill set. You have to be adaptable and prove your worth. For young professionals, my advice is to say yes to projects and tasks in your job when they are made available, even when you feel it is not your job. These projects are going to make you valuable to the company, help you gain skill sets, and ideally provide you with more interactions with others in your company and the community. The most frustrating words to hear from someone is “that is not my job,” but when it comes down to it, you need to be willing to take on work outside of your normal duties. Supervisors will be impressed with your willingness to learn more, which makes you more likely to get moved up in the company. It is also great for when you decide to change jobs, as the more you can speak on your skills and provide evidence, the better your interview will go.

Gary Swisher Director of Career Development at Mount Vernon Nazarene University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Don’t depend entirely on a review of job descriptions to help you launch a career that holds opportunities for progress. Research your field in advance to understand the typical occupations or titles and what they entail (OOH). Be clear about what you are targeting, then use those parameters for your search. Once you identify what those occupations are, you need to equip yourself accordingly. A college education still means a lot. Employers value candidates who can change and grow in their roles -- see NACE for desirable qualifications in candidates. Look for opportunities that communicate challenge, adaptability and high expectations by the employer. You can read in between the lines for the level of growth involved.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

My best advice is that if you are still learning a lot and growing, stay. But it’s common to be in that entry-level position for just a few years. If you stay in a position for 18 months or less, it may ding you on your resume. So, focus on growth but invest yourself in a company long enough to show you are worth the investment of future employers.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

It’s hard for young people not to focus on salary, especially when they have loans to repay. But I have worked with enough career changers to tell you that salary will not satisfy your deeper needs for long unless you are entirely money-driven. The take-home is to not stop investing in your future. In five years, would you rather be doing work you love or making lots of money being miserable? Understandably, there are numerous shades of gray between those two extremes, but the principle stands. You may even beat the salary curve in a few years by not taking the better-paying job, if you end up doing work that utilizes your best strengths and growing in your field.

Karina Clennon Assistant Director of the Career Development Center at Minnesota State University, Mankato

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Likely, it is difficult to tell from a position description whether an entry-level job will result in a career, unless it is part of that organization’s culture to explicitly refer to professional development opportunities and opportunity for advancement in the initial posting. A candidate should not necessarily self-select out of applying, and instead use their time in an interview to ask questions about advancement opportunities and learn more about the company culture. I would encourage the candidate to do their research on organizations that have great retention, training and development programs for entry-level professionals and frame his or her questions based on those standards.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

There really is no right or wrong answer, as individuals need to make choices that best fit their competing priorities. It is understood by both organizations and job seekers that the candidate will likely change positions at least nine times post-graduation. That being said, I would advise an entry-level professional to think through their rationale for changing positions if not employed for a full calendar year, and encourage them to be respectful and professional in making decisions about terminating employment. I encourage entry-level professionals to consider that, sometimes, career networks are surprisingly small and you wouldn’t want to burn a bridge that could impact your ability to be hired by a competing employer.

Frequently changing positions and short-term employment can be looked at negatively by hiring officials; they may perceive the candidate has a pattern of jumping from career to career. I would try to get ahead of that in a cover letter by explaining through appropriate self-disclosure the rationale for leaving positions. Other factors to consider would be, did the organization pay for relocation costs, professional trainings, etc. I would factor those into my consideration for considering how long to stay at my current organization. My broad advice, is to be thoughtful and professional when making these decisions. An entry-level professional should not jump to accept an offer without asking questions about company culture, supervision and expectations. The employer wants this to be a good fit too.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

It is a very personal choice. I encourage new college graduates to calculate their realistic living expenses and set a monthly budget. This will help them understand what their baseline salary will need to be to keep them on track with their personal finances. I would encourage them to look beyond salary when making a choice about a career. Perhaps a lower-paying career is located in a region with a lower standard of living, perhaps that career has more potential for advancement or developing unique experiences which could help them in the future. As a career counselor, I also advocate for employers to set realistic and fair offers for internships and entry-level professionals if they want to recruit and retain top talent.

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

That is impossible to predict. Job outlook predictions are based on longitudinal data and do not account for all the competing factors, such as predicting an economic recession or breakthroughs in research and technology. If one is curious to explore the job outlook of specific occupations, I would encourage them to use the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook and practice critical thinking when making decisions about academic major and career. For instance, today the occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree with a median pay of $55,000-$79,999 with 50,000 or more openings are Accountants and Auditors, Business Operations Specialists, Elementary School Teachers-Except Special Education, Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists, Registered Nurses, Secondary School Teachers except special and career/technical education.

Using the same criteria, the positions declining are Editors and Labor Relations Specialists. Again, this is national data and does not take into consideration the specific region where a candidate is focusing on developing their career. When working with entry-level professionals, finding a career of interest is extremely important. It also is savvy to collect as much information as you can about job outlook and salary expectations as a reality check before investing money in a Bachelor’s Degree.

Elisabeth Giglio Director of Career Development at Bard College

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Some companies are explicit in their job descriptions regarding how they support their team members, such as offering trainings or management development programs. For many jobs, however, I think you may need to find out during the interview if it will be a good fit. In an interview, ask about employee longevity at the organization, opportunities for growth, and how the organization supports their employees -- do they have mentoring programs and benefits that support your growth, such as tuition reimbursement? You can also get a lot of good information from your peers online (such as Glassdoor.com, where you can review organizations) in terms of which organizations will support your career over time.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

The average worker in America stays in a job for a little more than four years, so it is not unreasonable to plan to be in your first job for one or two years after graduating. However, you should consider why you want to move and explore if your current job can grow along with your interests before jumping ship. Once you have discussed new opportunities for growth with your supervisor and hit the ceiling at your current organization, then it is time to look for new opportunities. But you should start developing a professional network of colleagues from your organization, professional membership organizations, your alumni/ae association, and other connections early in your career, so when you want to look for new opportunities, you have a strong group of contacts to help you.

One caveat -- if you job hop too often, hiring managers may become wary of hiring you. For your first job or two, it is fine to have a short tenure, but then make sure to have longer work experiences on your resume as well.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

That will depend on a lot of factors, including student debt, and if the student needs to support family members or live independently. For many students, they need to take a higher salary to meet their financial obligations. If that is the case, see if you can consult or volunteer with an organization in your preferred industry on a limited basis to keep a foot in the door.

If you have some financial flexibility, then I would think about what skills you want to develop in the next few years and which opportunities will be the best fit for that. If the unpaid/low-pay opportunity is the best fit, I would be really clear about what you want to get out of the job and think about a time frame for your next steps. After six months on the job, ask to reevaluate your situation and see if you can get a paid position, raise or promotion.

Aaron Meyer Director of Career Development at the University of Minnesota Crookston

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Unless the particular industry you are applying for is drastically shrinking (aka dying), I think it is rather difficult to tell if a job is going to be a dead end simply by viewing the job description. A lot of the time, the realization of whether or not a job will turn into a career or a dead end requires physically experiencing the job.

After experiencing the job, you can then answer these questions, which will help you decide if the job will turn into a career or will be a dead end:

• Is there opportunity for growth/development?
• Is there opportunity for advancement/promotion?
• If there were an opportunity for advancement/promotion, would you want it?
• Does your job evolve? Meaning -- as you gain more experience and grow, does your job evolve with you?

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry level job before looking for new opportunities?

I look at this question from two perspectives -- a developmental perspective and a financial perspective.

From the developmental standpoint, a recent graduate can stay in an entry-level position as long as they are learning and growing. But, once that stops, I recommend looking for new opportunities.

From the financial standpoint, an individual can stay in an entry-level position as long as they are financially stable and satisfied.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

Neither choice is right or wrong. So, personally, what I would do, before I offered any advice, I would first ask the young individual, “What are your career goals?” Then, depending on their answer, I would advise them accordingly to whichever pathway would more effectively lead them towards their goal(s).

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

20 years is a long time, and what will be here or not be here is influenced by so many variables. Oxford University said back in 2013 that an estimated 47 percent of jobs could be automated in the next 20 years. That is most definitely a startling statement, and we have since seen some of the effects of that prediction. However, on the bright side, with new technologies and advancements also come new job opportunities.

That being said, the one advancement I personally wouldn’t mind having in the future is self-driving cars. With that, I could kick back and take a nap on my next 4-hour drive. However, as we have seen, based on technology and safety, we are away from that just yet.

Cynthia Favre Director of Career Development at Gustavus Adolphus College

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry-level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Not sure they can.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry-level job before looking for new opportunities?

I hear employers say they want them to stay three years; new graduates seem to get antsy after three months. I encourage new graduates to think in terms of one year and then assess. And, it is never too early to start learning the organization to see where opportunities might be and where there is opportunity to learn.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

This is very dependent on an individual’s financial situation. If they make the decision to start at a higher salary outside their interest area, they would be well served to make a plan for how they are going to stay connected to their interest area so they can get back into it when they are ready.

Pamela M. Folger Director of the Career Center at Millikin University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry-level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

I would advise job seekers to look for wording about professional development, mentoring, and other growth opportunities that would indicate whether or not the job has career-building potential or is a dead end. Explore the company’s website thoroughly to learn everything you can, including the values/vision/mission statement. Also search the web for info on the company (Glassdoor, LinkedIn, etc.). By doing your homework, you should be able to gauge how serious the company is about developing its workforce. It never hurts to apply and go through the interview process, as this will provide more insight to company culture and fit. I believe that any job has the potential to be a career-building experience or a dead end -- it all depends on the outlook of the person in the job and what they make of the opportunities they have.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry-level job before looking for new opportunities?

While changing jobs after a short tenure has become the norm for millennials, there is no right timeline to how long a new graduate should stay in a job. It is important to consider several factors before making a decision, including things such as why you might want to leave. If the job is not challenging and you do not feel that you are contributing or growing professionally, then it may be time to leave. If the work environment is toxic or you truly don’t enjoy your job, for whatever reason, moving on may be necessary. A good rule of thumb is to think how you would explain why you are leaving (or left) to a potential employer. Studies tell us that the best way to increase your salary is by changing jobs, but this needs to be tempered with making sure you are ready for the next challenge and not just “job hopping” -- as they used to say.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

There is no one right answer to this question. I think it is important to not only think strategically about your career and the long-term implications of choices, but to also consider your passions and purpose. The ultimate goal is to be doing something that brings you joy, so if that means the unpaid or low-paid opportunity, then it may be the right choice for you, as long as it is truly a career-building experience. But if a higher salary is important, perhaps life circumstances come into play (e.g., your ability to pay back any student loans), then you may want to take the job with the higher salary. It all comes down to what is important to the person. This is why life/career planning, including assessing your values and defining your purpose, is so important.

Career trajectories are not a straight line, and there is no one right way to get where you want to be. And truth be told, most of us will change where we want to be anyway. Having a plan, albeit a flexible plan, to guide you and keep you moving forward in your career journey will pay off in the long run.

Julie Goley Director of Career Services at Augusta University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry-level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

From the perspective of the job seeker, a dead-end job description is if it does not appear to offer an opportunity to learn new skills that will enhance the candidate’s capabilities in the future. It’s not about if the position “leads” somewhere with the same organization. Ultimately, it is about if the path provides a fit to build skills the candidate wishes to expand upon, while obviously using capabilities that are already in place to meet the qualifications of the position/employer.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry-level job before looking for new opportunities?

Traditionally, I like a 2-3-year rule. I personally think it takes about a year to learn the scope of a job to do it well because you have to absorb the organizational culture and politics of any workplace, on top of the execution of “the job.” New graduates need to learn patience with that. There is so much to learn experiencing a cycle of an organization’s activity. Having said that, if it is a bad fit, the candidate typically knows that within the first 90 days. If the writing is on the wall, you are not doing yourself or your employer any favors hanging in.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

While it may offer less pay, the experience is the dividend that will make an impact. If the candidate wants to pursue a certain industry/skill set, he or she may have to start a few rungs lower to grow in earnings and expertise in that field. Know your market to make sure you have a realistic approach to the industry in early earnings and expectations.

What jobs or sectors are likely to disappear in the next 20 years?

Many service industries may find artificial intelligence and automation impact future roles. That can be from cashiers and food service personnel to certain aspects of administrative support. Look at how banking has evolved to impact how much you can do without actually using a teller.

Mary Toso Director of Internships and Career Development at Augustana University

How can job seekers tell from a job description whether that entry-level job will result in a career versus a dead end?

Job seekers should not depend solely on a single position description for information about the future of their career within an organization. Doing some independent research to learn more about the organization and the opportunities available for advancement will provide insight into what lies ahead. Thinking about the roles one would like to have 3-5 years down the road and then researching the career paths of individuals currently holding those positions can also give a candidate an idea of what experience is necessary to advance.

How long should a new graduate stay in an entry-level job before looking for new opportunities?

I encourage new graduates to stay in an entry-level position until they are no longer challenged by the assignments and projects being directed their way. Pursuing a new opportunity may not mean that a person has to change companies. Being eager to take on new and more complicated projects in an entry-level position shows initiative and personal drive. New graduates should say yes to additional responsibilities when they are offered, to show their supervisors that they are capable of doing more. Successful completion of more challenging tasks will lead to advancement.

What advice do you have for young people choosing between an unpaid or low-paid opportunity in their preferred industry versus a job with a higher starting salary?

People are motivated by different incentives -- money, preferred industry, location, or the opportunity for an adventure. Some young people will have the flexibility to take a lower-paying opportunity to gain experience in a desired field. Others will seek a higher starting salary because getting paid well is important to them, or because they need the income in order to meet their financial obligations (i.e., student loan debt). Making decisions about a first job is important. Young people should evaluate what their priorities are as they start out and also give some thought to their goals for the next 3-5 years -- taking time for this introspection will be a great help when it is time to make that decision.

Methodology

In order to identify the best and worst first-timer jobs, WalletHub compared 109 entry-level occupations across three key dimensions: 1) Immediate Opportunity, 2) Growth Potential and 3) Job Hazards.

We evaluated those dimensions using 13 relevant metrics, which are listed below with their corresponding weights. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the most favorable conditions for entry-level workers.

We then determined each entry-level position’s weighted average across all metrics to calculate its total score and used the resulting scores to rank-order our sample.

Immediate Opportunity - Total Points: 40

• Median Starting Salary: Full Weight (~13.33 Points)
• Number of Job Openings: Full Weight (~13.33 Points)
• Unemployment Rate: Full Weight (~13.33 Points)

Growth Potential - Total Points: 40

• Occupation Viability Score: Triple Weight (~12.63 Points)Note: This metric measures the probability of a certain occupation being replaced with a computer.
• Projected Job Growth by 2026: Full Weight (~4.21 Points)
• Income Growth Potential: Full Weight (~4.21 Points)
• Typicality of On-the-Job Training: Full Weight (~4.21 Points)
• Median Annual Salary: Full Weight (~4.21 Points)
• Work Experience in Related Occupation Needed: Full Weight (~4.71 Points)
• Median Tenure with Employer: Half Weight (~2.11 Points)
• Occupation Schedule Flexibility: Full Weight (~4.21 Points)

Job Hazards - Total Points: 20

• Fatal Occupational Injuries per 100,000 Employees in Past Three Years: Full Weight (~10.00 Points)
• Typicality of Working More than 40 Hours per Week: Full Weight (~10.00 Points)

 Sources: Data used to create this ranking were collected from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oxford Martin School at the University of Oxford, Indeed.com and Salary.com.

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