19 early career jobs that map well to computer science majors

Career mapping is the process of strategically planning your professional journey by identifying potential job roles, the skills required, and the steps needed to reach your goals. For computer science majors, career mapping is especially valuable because the tech industry offers an almost overwhelming range of opportunities across various sectors. Having a clear plan helps you focus on roles that align with your interests and strengths.

With a computer science degree, you might start as a software developer, data analyst, systems administrator, or cybersecurity specialist. If you’re drawn to programming, you could specialize in areas like mobile app development, web development, or game design. For those interested in data, careers in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data science are booming. If problem-solving and big-picture thinking appeal to you, roles like solutions architect, product manager, or IT project manager might be a good fit. Career mapping helps you figure out where you want to go, what skills and certifications you’ll need along the way, and how to stay adaptable in a field that evolves rapidly. It’s not just about landing your first job—it’s about building a career that keeps you challenged and engaged.

We recently reached out to 19 hiring experts to get their thoughts on what job opportunities map well to computer science majors:

• Software Engineering: Building Digital Solutions
• Junior DevOps: Real-World Experience
• Product Development: Hands-On Feature Building
• Junior Developer: Real-World Coding Experience
• QA Testing: Complete Development Process View
• Penetration Testing: Ethical Hacking Experience
• Website Development: Freelancing and Real-World Experience
• Cybersecurity Internship: Practical Security Experience
• Database Internship: Core CS Principles Application
• AI Tester: Ethical AI Implementation
• Technical SEO Analyst: Automate and Improve Search Performance
• Software Development Internship: Hands-On Programming Experience
• Sales Engineer: Combine Technical Skills with Strategy
• AI Prompt Engineer: Craft Effective AI Prompts
• Junior Game Developer: Apply Programming Skills
• Low-Code Developer: Build Apps Efficiently
• Helpdesk Technician: Frontline IT Support
• Data Science: Math and Coding Combined
• Freelance Developer: Build Websites and Apps

Software Engineering: Building Digital Solutions

When I was first learning to code, I thought being a Software Engineer just meant writing lines of code all day. But it’s so much more than that. It’s like solving a giant, interactive puzzle—except instead of just fitting pieces together, you’re building the pieces yourself.

Here’s how it works: someone has a problem, like needing an app to track workouts or a system to process payments. My job? Turn that idea into reality using programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. But writing code is only the first step. Debugging, testing, and refining that code until it works seamlessly — that’s where things get interesting.

And the payoff? Companies value software engineers so much that the average salary is around $107,000 per year. That’s a solid return for doing something that feels like crafting digital solutions out of thin air. If you enjoy problem-solving and want a career where you get to build things people actually use, software engineering is one of the best places to start.

Michael Ferrara, Information Technology Specialist, Conceptual Technology

Junior DevOps: Real-World Experience

I’ve found Junior DevOps roles provide exceptional real-world experience. Our interns earn $25-35/hour while gaining hands-on experience with cloud infrastructure, CI/CD pipelines, and monitoring tools.

A recent intern automated our deployment process, reducing release time by 40% and earning a full-time offer at $95K. Our data shows DevOps interns are 3x more likely to receive competitive full-time offers compared to traditional development roles.

The position’s flexible remote hours and exposure to enterprise-scale systems give students practical experience that directly enhances their coursework performance—92% report stronger understanding of distributed systems concepts.

Harman Singh, Senior Software Engineer, StudioLabs

Product Development: Hands-On Feature Building

From my experience mentoring tech interns, I’ve found that a Product Development Internship is perfect for CS students since you get hands-on experience building real features while having senior developers guide you. Last summer, one of our interns created a machine learning algorithm for our lead scoring system, which not only improved his coding skills but also gave him amazing portfolio material for future job applications.

Yarden Morgan, Director of Growth, Lusha

Junior Developer: Real-World Coding Experience

A great job for a college or university student majoring in Computer Science is working as a junior developer or software engineering intern. It’s one of the best ways to get real-world coding experience while still in school.

You’ll take what you’re learning in class and actually apply it to real projects, which is not only exciting but also super valuable for your resume. Many companies are happy to hire students and offer flexible hours to work around your schedule. And, you’ll get exposure to industry tools and learn how teams work together in the real world, which gives you a big advantage when you’re ready to apply for full-time jobs. On top of that, it’s a great way to build connections in the tech industry. A lot of students end up turning these internships into full-time roles after graduation, so it’s a win-win.

Matthew Lam, Full-Stack Developer, Penfriend

QA Testing: Complete Development Process View

QA testing roles offer CS students something incredibly valuable: a complete view of the development process. While most students chase pure coding internships, testing positions let you learn real-world software practices while working flexible hours around classes. The work teaches you practical dev tools, bug tracking systems, and how features actually get built and deployed. 

What caught us off guard? Students in QA roles often grasp programming concepts better because they see how everything connects. They understand user requirements, spot common coding mistakes, and learn what makes code maintainable—all skills that make them stronger developers later. Part-time QA work builds better programmers than just studying code. The flexible schedule, practical experience, and broad exposure to development practices make it perfect for CS students looking to break into tech.

Tristan Harris, Sr. VP of Marketing, Next Net Media

Penetration Testing: Ethical Hacking Experience

Being the Director of a company specializing in artificial intelligence and digital solutions, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring and hiring numerous Computer Science students. One role that really stands out, which I always recommend for those looking into the field of technology, is the Penetration Testing Apprentice. This is a great position for students studying Computer Science because, during a penetration test, the student finds themselves in a real-life situation identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating them—a way to connect class knowledge to actual practice. 

The threats to cybersecurity are ever-growing, making the acquisition of such expertise as ethical hacking among the hottest topics within the tech job market. Another ability sharpened with this role is that of critical thinking and analysis; in other words, fundamental skills that lie at the foundation of any technology job.

Peter Bajwa, Director of Technical Development, App-scoop Solutions Inc.

Website Development: Freelancing and Real-World Experience

Based on my experience, I’d say that a great job for a college or university student majoring in Computer Science is website development and marketing. I actually did this myself, working on WordPress sites right out of school to earn side income, which allowed me to make money freelancing while gaining relevant experience.

• This works well as a primary job or freelance gig on the side because usually tasks are well-defined and easy to deliver, plus there are many opportunities to find this kind of work on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
  
• As a computer science major, you’d have the technical skills to maintain and build these sites, including using AI tools to help write code, as I do.
  
• It’s a great way to get real-world experience with databases and other relevant technology, especially if you haven’t had a lot of these opportunities while in school.

Plus, you would gain valuable insight into running a business that is cash-flow positive from day one.

All in all, working as a website developer while studying computer science can provide both income and practical skills that directly relate to your field of study.

Jeff Sauer, Co-Founder, MeasureU and ProfitSchool

Cybersecurity Internship: Practical Security Experience

A well-suited job for college or university students majoring in Computer Science is a cybersecurity internship. This role provides practical experience that helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. It introduces students to essential concepts such as identifying vulnerabilities, understanding security protocols, and learning to respond to potential threats. Internships like this offer a safe environment to learn and grow while contributing to meaningful projects under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Cybersecurity internships also allow students to explore various aspects of the field, including network security, data protection, and incident response. These experiences help build critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, all of which are valuable in a professional setting. Working on tasks that involve analyzing risks or supporting security systems gives students a clear idea of what it means to contribute to protecting digital environments.

This type of role not only strengthens technical abilities but also provides insights into workplace dynamics and professional expectations. It’s an opportunity for students to gain confidence, enhance their resumes, and prepare for a future career in the growing field of cybersecurity. For Computer Science majors interested in security, internships are an excellent and practical choice to start building expertise.

Oliver Aleksejuk, Managing Director, Techcare

Database Internship: Core CS Principles Application

A database internship offers an exceptional opportunity for computer science students eager to gain practical experience and build in-demand skills. Databases are the backbone of nearly every modern application, from social media platforms to e-commerce sites and complex scientific research projects. Working with databases provides a deep dive into core Computer Science (CS) principles like data structures, algorithms, and software development, making it a perfect real-world application of classroom knowledge. This type of internship offers students the chance to understand how data is stored and retrieved and the critical role it plays in driving business decisions and shaping user experiences.

A typical database internship can expose students to various responsibilities, offering a broad overview of the field. They might work with database administrators (DBAs) on tasks like performance tuning, ensuring data integrity, and implementing backup and recovery strategies. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the operational side of database management. Interns also have the opportunity to contribute to development projects, writing queries to retrieve data for reports, building APIs to connect applications to databases, or even designing new database schemas. This exposure to the development lifecycle allows students to apply their programming skills in a practical context and understand how data interacts with applications.

The benefits of a database internship extend far beyond just technical skills. Students gain invaluable experience in problem-solving. They learn to troubleshoot database issues, optimize queries for performance, and design efficient data models. This analytical thinking is crucial for any aspiring computer scientist. Furthermore, working in a professional setting fosters collaboration and communication skills. Interns often work within teams, interacting with developers, analysts, and project managers, learning to communicate technical concepts and contribute to a shared goal effectively. These soft skills are highly sought after by employers and significantly enhance a graduate’s career prospects.

Steve Fleurant, CEO, Clair Services

AI Tester: Ethical AI Implementation

I suggest students work with companies to test algorithms for bias, fairness, and accuracy with the rise of AI. This role enhances understanding of ethical considerations and practical implementations of machine learning. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the AI industry is expected to reach over $266 billion by 2027, creating a high demand for skilled AI testers.

The role of an ethical AI tester allows students to work with cutting-edge technology and gain practical experience in the rapidly growing field of AI. It also offers an opportunity to contribute towards creating more ethical and responsible use of AI in various industries such as healthcare, finance, and education.

I would point out that companies are looking for individuals who can ensure their algorithms are fair and unbiased as ethical concerns surrounding AI continue to increase. This role provides a chance to make a positive impact on society by promoting transparency and accountability in the use of AI.

Kevin Baragona, Founder, Deep AI

Technical SEO Analyst: Automate and Improve Search Performance

I’ve seen many CS students thrive as Technical SEO Analysts, where they can apply their programming skills to automate site audits and create tools for improving search performance. Just recently, one of our student analysts built a Python script to analyze thousands of URLs for technical issues, which not only solved a real business problem but also gave them practical experience combining coding with marketing technology.

Itamar Haim, SEO Strategist, Elementor

Software Development Internship: Hands-On Programming Experience

A great job for a college or university student studying Computer Science is a Software Development Internship. This position provides hands-on experience in programming, troubleshooting, and contributing to actual projects, enabling students to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice. Interns typically focus on specific components of a larger software system, which helps them hone their technical abilities while becoming acquainted with the tools and processes commonly used in the tech industry.

One of the major benefits of this role is the chance to work with widely used programming languages and frameworks, such as Java, Python, or React. It also offers an introduction to collaborative development practices, like Agile methodologies, which are essential for team-oriented projects. Moreover, internships create valuable opportunities for students to connect with experienced developers who can offer mentorship and guidance, enriching their learning experience.

In addition to building technical expertise, this role enhances a student’s resume by providing real-world experience, which can make them more competitive when seeking full-time positions after graduation. It also allows students to explore specialized areas of interest within software development, such as user interface design, server-side programming, or mobile app development. Overall, a Software Development Internship is an invaluable stepping stone for students aiming to establish a strong foundation for a career in computer science.

Ahmed Banafa, Professor, San Jose State University

Sales Engineer: Combine Technical Skills with Strategy

The obvious answer is software engineer or even a startup founder, but I’d argue that a CS major going into a traditionally non-technical field—like sales or marketing—can actually stand out more and move up the ladder faster. Roles like sales engineer or growth marketer allow you to combine technical skills with business strategy, making you a rare and valuable asset. You’ll stay sharp on your coding and problem-solving abilities while also developing a broader skill set that can open doors to leadership roles. Sometimes, the best career move isn’t the most expected one.

Vivian Chen, Founder & CEO, Rise Remote Jobs

AI Prompt Engineer: Craft Effective AI Prompts

A surprisingly under-the-radar role I’d recommend for a CS student is AI Prompt Engineer.

With large language models (like ChatGPT) becoming mainstream, many companies—especially startups—need people who can craft precise, effective prompts that yield valuable AI-generated responses. It’s part coding, part creative writing, and part human-computer interaction research.

Why It’s Perfect for Undergrads

• Immediate Impact: Even a short-term contractor can quickly help a startup fine-tune its AI workflows for customer service bots, content generation, or data analysis.

• Technical and Soft Skills: You’ll gain hands-on experience with APIs, while also honing your ability to communicate complex ideas concisely and structure queries for the best AI outputs.

• Portfolio Power: Showcasing the specialized “prompt templates” you developed for real-world tasks proves you can bridge the gap between advanced tech and practical business needs.

One thing people don’t realize is how iterative and experimental prompt engineering can be. You’re not just writing a single line of code; you’re systematically refining how an AI system interprets queries. That continuous feedback loop teaches you to rapidly test, measure, and optimize—core skills every CS major needs.

This position is a great conversation starter on your resume or LinkedIn because it’s new enough that it grabs attention. Employers are often curious to see how you managed to harness AI in a creative, results-focused way.

Derek Pankaew, CEO & Founder, Listening.com

Junior Game Developer: Apply Programming Skills

Junior game developer positions have been game-changing for CS students, where they can apply their programming skills while balancing coursework. We recently had a junior dev working 20 hours/week who built a physics engine module for our mobile game while completing his senior year—it gave him amazing portfolio pieces and real shipping experience before graduation.

Serge Eliseeff, Founder & CEO, GameTop

Low-Code Developer: Build Apps Efficiently

A fantastic job I highly recommend for a Computer Science major is working as a low-code developer for small businesses. Many small businesses need apps but lack the resources or expertise to build them from scratch.

With platforms like Bubble.io or OutSystems, CS students can create functional apps without needing to dive into complex coding for every feature. This role allows you to leverage your technical skills while helping businesses solve real problems in an efficient way. It’s a great way to build hands-on experience and contribute to the success of small companies.

Nick Esposito, Founder, NYCServers

Helpdesk Technician: Frontline IT Support

One of the most well-suited roles for a Computer Science major is that of a helpdesk technician within a managed IT services company. Our helpdesk team plays a critical role in delivering cybersecurity, cloud solutions, VoIP services, and IT consulting to businesses that rely on technology for daily operations. This position is far more than troubleshooting technical issues—it is the front line of IT support, ensuring businesses remain secure, efficient, and connected. Helpdesk technicians develop a deep understanding of network security, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise communications, providing them with a strong foundation to advance in specialized areas of the industry.

What makes this role truly valuable is the opportunity for continuous growth and specialization. The diverse range of industries we serve allows helpdesk professionals to gain experience with various IT environments, sharpening both technical expertise and client-facing communication skills. Whether responding to cybersecurity threats, optimizing cloud-based solutions, or supporting VoIP services, helpdesk technicians operate as trusted IT advisors, ensuring seamless technology integration and business continuity. 

This hands-on experience builds the foundation for career progression into roles such as network engineering, cybersecurity analysis, or IT consulting, making it an essential stepping stone in a successful IT career. We recognize the helpdesk as an integral part of our client-focused, solution-driven approach, shaping the future of IT professionals who thrive in high-demand technical environments.

Nick Kliminski, Client Relations Specialist, Go Technology Group

Data Science: Math and Coding Combined

Whenever I get students who tell me that they’re interested in computer science, I ask them what they like about it. If they tell me they love math as much as coding, I encourage them to consider data science. It only requires a bachelor’s degree in CS, and the job opportunities are estimated to grow 36% over the next decade.

Beverly Gearreald, Owner, Live Fearless Mentoring

Freelance Developer: Build Websites and Apps

For computer science majors, working while in school isn’t just about money—it’s about building skills and experience. While big tech internships are competitive, many flexible jobs let you apply your tech skills, gain experience, and get paid.

Here are the best jobs to prepare you for a tech career:

1. Freelance Developer Build websites, apps, or automation scripts. Gain front-end, back-end, or full-stack experience. Learn Git, APIs, and cloud services. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer flexible work and income.
   
2. Tech Social Media Manager Manage content, analytics, and automation for startups. Learn SEO, digital ads, and AI-powered marketing. Blend creativity with technical skills-ideal for UX or branding. Offers remote work and flexible hours.
   
3. Technical Support (Help Desk) Troubleshoot software, hardware, and network issues. Build communication and problem-solving skills. Many companies offer part-time or remote roles. A stepping stone to IT, software development, or cybersecurity.
   
4. Software Development Intern Work on real codebases and tech stacks. Gain experience with Python, JavaScript, C++, or Java. Learn agile, version control, and deployment. Startups offer hands-on experience, even without a big-name internship.
   
5. IT Support Assistant Troubleshoot Windows, macOS, and Linux. Learn network security, cloud computing, and system administration. Many universities and businesses hire for IT support. A great starting point for cybersecurity or IT management. 

These roles help you gain real-world experience, build a portfolio, and stand out in tech. Whether freelancing, interning, or working in IT, your hands-on efforts today shape your career tomorrow. Start now!

Robert Marshall, Coach