11 Best Jobs for 21-Year-Olds With No Experience

Last Updated on November 13, 2023 by Robert Porter

In this article, you'll find the best jobs for 21-year-olds with no experience. Turning 21 is more than just a milestone age; it's the start of a crucial phase in carving out your career path. Even without a stacked resume, the job market offers various opportunities that value the fresh outlook and potential of young adults over extensive experience. This guide aims to direct you to roles where your enthusiasm and ability to learn are your greatest assets. Listed below are 11 of the best jobs for 21-year-olds with no experience.

  1. Administrative Assistant
  2. Sales Associate
  3. Customer Service Representative
  4. Warehouse Operative
  5. Social Media Assistant
  6. Junior Web Developer
  7. Entry-Level Accountant
  8. Graphic Design Assistant
  9. Human Resources Assistant
  10. Real Estate Assistant
  11. Community Outreach Worker

1. Administrative Assistant

Administrative Assistants are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of office environments, handling tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, and basic office management.

Skills Required

  • Organizational abilities
  • Communication skills
  • Familiarity with office software
  • Time management

Salary Range

Between $12 - $18 hourly, dependent on the company size and sector.

2. Sales Associate

Sales Associates work in retail environments, assisting customers, stocking shelves, and managing transactions.

Skills Required

  • Customer service
  • Salesmanship
  • Basic math skills for handling money
  • Product knowledge

Salary Range

Between $9 - $14 hourly, often with the potential to earn commissions.

3. Customer Service Representative

Customer Service Representatives are the face of a company's customer support, addressing inquiries and resolving issues.

Skills Required

  • Problem-solving skills
  • Patience and empathy
  • Clear communication
  • Ability to use customer management software

Salary Range

Between $10 - $16 hourly, with variances based on industry and complexity of the service provided.

4. Warehouse Operative

Warehouse Operatives handle the stock and inventory in a warehouse, including packing, sorting, and shipping goods.

Skills Required

  • Physical fitness
  • Teamwork
  • Basic data entry skills
  • Ability to operate warehouse machinery

Salary Range

Between $11 - $16 hourly, with a potential increase for night shifts or overtime.

5. Social Media Assistant

Social Media Assistants support a brand's online presence, creating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing social media metrics.

Skills Required

  • Creativity
  • Strong writing and editing skills
  • Knowledge of social media platforms
  • Basic analytics comprehension

Salary Range

Between $10 - $17 hourly, dependent on experience and the employer's size.

6. Junior Web Developer

Junior Web Developers assist in website and application development, often working under the supervision of senior developers.

Skills Required

  • Knowledge of coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Eagerness to learn new technologies

Salary Range

Between $15 - $25 hourly, with a range that reflects the complexity of the job and the industry.

7. Entry-Level Accountant

Entry-Level Accountants work on basic accounting tasks and are usually fresh graduates or those who are in the process of obtaining certification.

Skills Required

  • Proficiency in math
  • Detail-oriented
  • Familiarity with accounting software
  • Understanding of financial regulations

Salary Range

Between $14 - $22 hourly, depending on the level of education and the size of the company.

8. Graphic Design Assistant

Graphic Design Assistants support design teams in creating visual content for various media platforms.

Skills Required

  • Basic knowledge of design principles and software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
  • Creativity and a good eye for design
  • Time management
  • Ability to work collaboratively

Salary Range

Between $12 - $18 hourly, which may vary with the workplace and specific design field.

9. Human Resources Assistant

Human Resources Assistants help with the administrative functions of the HR department, from recruitment to handling employee records.

Skills Required

  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Discretion and ethics
  • Organizational abilities
  • Basic knowledge of employment law

Salary Range

Between $13 - $19 hourly, depending on the organization's size and the assistant's responsibilities.

10. Real Estate Assistant

Real Estate Assistants support realtors by scheduling appointments, handling communications, and assisting with property listings.

Skills Required

  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Communication proficiency
  • Knowledge of real estate practices
  • Administrative skills

Salary Range

Between $12 - $17 hourly, often with additional bonuses for closed deals.

11. Community Outreach Worker

Community Outreach Workers engage with the public for various programs, aiming to inform and assist community members.

Skills Required

  • Strong communication skills
  • Cultural sensitivity
  • Ability to work independently
  • Empathy and a desire to help others

Salary Range

Between $12 - $18 hourly, which can vary based on the employer and scope of work.

How do I gain experience if all jobs require it?

Many employers value transferable skills like communication, time management, and learning ability. Highlight these in your applications, and seek out internships or volunteer opportunities to build your experience.

What are good ways to network when searching for my first job?

Attend job fairs, join professional social media groups, engage in community events, and reach out to professionals in fields of interest for informational interviews.

Should I consider further education if I can’t find a job?

Further education can be beneficial, especially if it's in a field with a clear career path. However, weigh the cost against the potential return on investment and consider if there are alternative pathways to your desired career.

Is it too late to start an apprenticeship at 21?

No, it's not too late. Apprenticeships are an excellent way to learn on the job and can be started at any age, offering a route into many skilled trades and professions.