TSG Training Shares Career Advice in Metro

About the role

Entry-level roles across multiple sectors are offering strong starting salaries. The following five positions are currently among the highest-paying entry-level jobs in the UK, along with guidance on how to secure them.

1. Technology Consultant

• Starting salary: £35,000–£45,000
• Typically involves advising businesses on software, systems, or IT strategy
• Often offered through graduate schemes at large professional services or tech firms

How to get in

• Relevant degree (computer science, information systems, business, or similar) is common but not always mandatory
• Internships or placement years in tech or consulting are highly valued
• Strong analytical and communication skills are key; case-study interview preparation is recommended

2. Data Analyst

• Starting salary: £32,000–£40,000
• Work involves interpreting data, creating dashboards, and providing insights to support business decisions
• Roles available across finance, healthcare, retail, and tech

How to get in

• Degree in mathematics, statistics, economics, computer science, or related field often preferred
• Proficiency in SQL, Excel, and a visualisation tool (e.g. Tableau, Power BI) is beneficial
• Many employers accept bootcamp graduates or self-taught candidates with strong portfolios

3. Graduate Software Engineer

• Starting salary: £30,000–£42,000 (with top-tier firms reaching up to £50,000+)
• Involves developing, testing, and maintaining software applications
• Roles can be in fintech, gaming, AI, or traditional enterprise

How to get in

• Computer science or related degree is typical, but coding bootcamp graduates are increasingly hired
• Strong portfolio of personal or open-source projects is often more important than degree classification
• Technical interviews usually include live coding, algorithm challenges, and system design basics

4. Investment Banking Analyst (Graduate)

• Starting salary: £40,000–£55,000 base (with bonuses significantly increasing total compensation)
• Work includes financial modelling, deal support, and market research
• Typically offered through structured graduate programmes at major banks

How to get in

• Strong academic record (2:1 or above) from a competitive university, often in economics, finance, maths, or related
• Previous internships in finance or investment banking are almost essential
• Requires intense preparation for numerical reasoning, behavioural interviews, and technical financial questions

5. Commercial Solicitor (Trainee)

• Starting salary (trainee) : £40,000–£50,000+ at large city firms (with significant jumps upon qualification)
• Involves supporting corporate transactions, contract drafting, and client advisory work
• Training contracts are typically two-year programmes

How to get in

• Law degree or conversion course (GDL) plus LPC or SQE preparation
• Vacation schemes or legal work experience are critical for securing a training contract
• Strong commercial awareness, attention to detail, and resilience are essential

General advice for all roles

• Start applications early — many graduate schemes open in autumn for the following year
• Build a network through LinkedIn, careers fairs, and internships
• Practice psychometric tests and assessment centres specific to your target sector
• Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experience for each role