Entry-Level Tech Jobs in the US That Pay $70K+

Starting a career in technology can be both exciting and daunting, especially when aiming for a high salary right from entry-level roles. In 2026, the US tech industry continues to provide abundant opportunities for young professionals and career switchers to earn $70,000 or more annually, even as they begin their journeys. This is fueled by the rapid expansion of digital technologies, increasing reliance on data, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity needs across all industries.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler, a platform that helps freelancers and professionals get hired through their work samples. This article highlights entry-level tech jobs in the US that pay $70,000 or more in 2026. Starting strong in your career is about more than just the salary, it's about smartly presenting your work and potential. By building a portfolio that showcases your emerging skills and real projects, you create credibility and open doors in a competitive job market eager for fresh talent who can deliver results.

In this blog, you will discover the top entry-level tech jobs in the US paying $70,000 or more, what skills they demand, and why they remain in high demand. This guidance can help you map a career path that is both financially rewarding and growth-oriented.

1. Data Scientist – Transforming Data Into Business Value

Even at entry level, data scientists attract high salaries because companies are drowning in data and need skilled professionals to extract actionable insights. This role involves data cleaning, exploratory analysis, and building simple predictive models under supervision.

• Core tools: Python, R, SQL, Tableau, and Jupyter Notebooks.
• Entry salary range: Often starts around $75,000 to $95,000.
• Growth potential: Rapid expansion into machine learning and AI modeling roles.
• Industries hiring: Finance, healthcare, marketing, and technology.
• Certification advantage: Certificates like Google Data Analytics or IBM Data Science Professional improve prospects.

Why it matters: Data scientists help businesses turn complex data into strategic decisions, providing essential value from day one and commanding high entry salaries.

2. Software Engineer – Building the Digital World

Entry-level software engineers design, test, and maintain software applications. The demand remains high as nearly every business now requires some form of software, from web to mobile and cloud platforms.

• Key programming languages: JavaScript, Python, Java, C#, and SQL.
• Salary range: From $70,000 to $90,000 on average, with rapid growth possible.
• Important skills: Git, testing frameworks, cloud basics, and agile workflows.
• Remote options: Over 80% offer full remote or hybrid roles.
• Certifications that help: AWS Certified Developer, Microsoft Certified Azure Developer.

Why it matters: Engineers are foundational to IT innovation and remote digital services, making this a resilient and lucrative entry-level career.

3. Security Engineer – Protecting Digital Assets

Security engineers are essential as cyber threats escalate. Entry-level roles focus on monitoring, vulnerability assessment, and implementing basic security controls.

• Skills at entry: Network security, SIEM tools, Linux, firewalls.
• Starting salaries: Often beginning near $70,000 with rises based on certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH.
• Demand surge: Fueled by more online services and regulatory requirements.
• Job stability: Very high due to the critical need for security everywhere.
• Growing fields: Cloud security, incident response, and compliance.

Why it matters: Cybersecurity is a growing priority, offering entry-level professionals high pay and career security as businesses protect sensitive data.

4. Cloud Engineer – Supporting Remote Infrastructures

Cloud engineers manage and deploy cloud infrastructure critical to modern businesses. Entry-level roles involve supporting migrations, automation scripting, and system monitoring.

• Key knowledge: AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud fundamentals, Linux, Python.
• Salary range: Typically $70,000 to $85,000 for junior roles.
• Certifications: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals.
• Remote feasibility: Very high, as cloud work is inherently digital and distributed.
• Industries: Tech startups, banking, retail, and government increasingly move to cloud.

Why it matters: Cloud engineers enable business agility and remote operations, positioning them for lucrative and flexible entry-level positions.

5. DevOps Engineer – Automating and Integrating Systems

DevOps engineers streamline software delivery pipelines and operations, increasingly crucial in fast-paced agile environments. Junior DevOps roles focus on scripting, CI/CD pipeline support, and container management.

• Skills: Docker, Kubernetes, Jenkins, Terraform, bash scripting.
• Salary range: $70,000 to $90,000 immediately post-entry-level.
• Work style: Highly compatible with remote work and global teams.
• Certification: Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), AWS DevOps Engineer.
• Growth opportunities: Rapid career advancement as automation dominates IT operations.

Why it matters: DevOps roles bridge software and infrastructure, providing hands-on experience that commands strong salaries and job security.

6. UX/UI Designer – Enhancing User Experience from Day One

User Experience and Interface designers craft products that delight users and drive engagement. Entry-level roles involve wireframing, user testing, and prototyping with guidance.

• Skills: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, usability testing, HTML/CSS basics.
• Starting pay: $70,000 to $85,000 is common for junior UX/UI designers.
• Demand: Increases as digital transformation fosters user-focused design in all sectors.
• Remote friendly: Many roles offer full or hybrid remote work.
• Learning boost: UX design certification and portfolio development are essential.

Why it matters: UX/UI designers improve customer satisfaction and retention, with strong entry salaries reflecting the role’s importance.

Final Thoughts

Entering the tech workforce in 2026 with a salary of $70,000 or more is achievable with the right mix of skills, certifications, and determination. Roles such as data scientist, software engineer, security engineer, cloud engineer, DevOps engineer, and UX/UI designer represent the best pathways for newcomers seeking financial stability and long-term growth.

The US tech market continues to value both technical proficiency and adaptability, supported by the rise of remote and hybrid work models. Building a solid portfolio, gaining recognized certifications, and continuously updating technical knowledge are keys to landing these entry-level jobs. Platforms like Fueler also play a vital role by enabling young professionals to showcase their projects and real-world skills, creating trust with potential employers.

FAQs

1. What entry-level tech jobs pay $70,000 or more in the US?

Data scientists, software engineers, security engineers, cloud engineers, DevOps engineers, and UX/UI designers typically start around or above this salary.

2. Are remote entry-level tech jobs common?

Yes, many tech employers now offer remote or hybrid options for entry-level roles, expanding opportunities nationwide.

3. What skills are most important for high-paying entry-level tech jobs?

Programming languages (Python, JavaScript), cloud fundamentals, cybersecurity basics, and UX/UI tools are top skills.

4. How do certifications affect entry-level tech salaries?

Certifications like AWS Cloud Practitioner, CompTIA Security+, and Google Data Analytics help boost salaries and employability.

5. How can I improve my chances of getting these jobs?

Building a portfolio of projects on platforms like Fueler, continuous learning, and networking are essential strategies.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talent for their organization based on their proof of work. You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

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