Where can I find entry-level jobs or internships?

Content

As a recent college graduate eager to launch my career in the tech industry, I’m seeking entry-level software development or IT support jobs and internships that offer practical learning opportunities. I’m based in the U.S. and prefer opportunities in the Pacific Northwest or remote roles, but I’m open to relocation for strong prospects. With limited professional experience beyond freelance projects and academic work, where are the most effective platforms beyond LinkedIn Indeed, and Glassdoor—such as niche tech boards, university career centers, or startup-focused portals—to find these positions? Additionally, are there specific strategies for tailoring applications to entry-level roles in this competitive field?

Entry-level jobs and internships can be found through the following resources:

  1. University Career Services
    Colleges and universities offer dedicated career centers with job boards, internship listings, career fairs, and networking events. Many provide access to alumni networks and employer partnerships.

  2. Online Job Boards

    • Indeed: Aggregates listings from company career pages, job boards, and other sources.
    • LinkedIn Jobs: Features a dedicated "Internships" filter and networking opportunities.
    • Glassdoor: Includes company reviews and salary data alongside internship/job listings.
    • Handshake: A platform focused on college students and recent graduates, offering curated entry-level roles.
    • WayUp: Specializes in internships and entry-level positions across industries.

  3. Company Career Pages
    Directly visit websites of target companies (e.g., Google, Microsoft, local businesses) and navigate their "Careers" or "Internships" sections. Many list opportunities not posted elsewhere.

  4. Professional Networking Sites

    • LinkedIn: Create a detailed profile, follow companies, join industry-specific groups, and connect with recruiters/alumni.
    • Twitter: Use hashtags like #Hiring, #Jobs, or #Internships to find active openings.

  5. Industry-Specific Job Boards

    • Tech: Built In, AngelList, Hired.
    • Creative: Behance, Dribbble, ArtsThread.
    • Non-Profit: Idealist, Careers in Non-Profits.
    • Government: USAJOBS (U.S. federal), studentjobs.gov.

  6. Professional Organizations
    Groups like the American Marketing Association or IEEE offer job boards, mentorship, and exclusive internship partnerships for members.

  7. Government Programs

    • U.S.: Pathways Program (for federal internships), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) youth programs.
    • Canada: Youth Employment Strategy.
    • UK: Kickstart Scheme, Graduate Talent Pool.

  8. Volunteering & Freelancing
    Platforms like VolunteerMatch or Catchafire can lead to paid roles. Freelance sites (Fiverr, Upwork) offer entry-level projects to build portfolios.

  9. Career Fairs & Networking Events
    Attend virtual/in-person fairs hosted by schools, industry associations, or platforms like RecruitMilitary. Meet recruiters directly.

  10. Temp Staffing Agencies
    Companies like Robert Half, Adecco, and Aerotek offer temp-to-hire roles gaining full-time experience.

  11. Social Media & Company Pages
    Follow companies on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, where they often post openings. Use location-based hashtags (e.g., #NYCinternships).

  12. Alumni Networks
    Reach out to alumni via LinkedIn or university alumni associations for referrals or unadvertised openings.

  13. Internship-Specific Platforms

    • International: Intern Abroad HQ, Go Overseas.
    • Research: Science Research Internships for High School Students (SRISHS), InternMatch.

  14. Local Resources
    City or state job centers, libraries (free access to premium job sites like LinkedIn Premium), and community centers list local opportunities.

  15. Professional Development Organizations
    Groups like Year Up, Per Scholas, or INROADS provide structured internships for underrepresented groups.

Action Tips:

  • Customize resumes/cover letters for each application.
  • Set up job alerts on LinkedIn and Indeed.
  • Apply early—internships fill months in advance.
  • Leverage university advisors for application reviews.

Published: November 30, 2025