Rs 11.8 LPA and beyond: Highest paying entry-level roles in 2025

As we move into the financial year 2024-25, certain job roles are becoming increasingly important and are in high demand, according to an analysis by TeamLease Digital. Roles like Penetration Tester, Data Scientist, Full Stack Developer, Big Data Developer, Cybersecurity Specialist, and Blockchain Developer are topping the list. With the growth of specialized skills in areas like software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud solutions, some sectors are also expecting a rise in salaries.

Salary Trends Across Key Domains

Software Development & Engineering
Skills like coding, software design, and AI/ML integration are in high demand. Salary forecasts indicate:

GCCs (Global Capability Centers): Rs 9.37 lakh per annum (LPA)
IT Products & Services: Rs 6.23 LPA
Non-Tech sectors: Rs 6 LPA
As AI and ML are increasingly integrated into software development, the demand for skilled developers is growing, especially in GCCs where salaries are higher.
Cybersecurity & Network Administration
As the need to protect IT infrastructure grows, jobs focusing on identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating risks are seeing strong demand. Salary expectations include:

GCCs: Rs 9.57 LPA (around 40% higher than the IT sector)
IT Products & Services: Rs 6.83 LPA
Non-Tech sectors: Rs 5.17 LPA
The rise in cybersecurity threats has made skilled professionals highly sought after, especially in GCCs where companies are willing to offer higher salaries.
Data Management & Analytics
With companies relying more on data-driven decision-making, there’s a strong need for data scientists and analysts. Expected salaries are:

GCCs: Rs 8.73 LPA
IT Products & Services: Rs 7.07 LPA
Non-Tech sectors: Rs 6.37 LPA
GCCs are leading the way in offering higher salaries for data-related roles, as businesses increasingly turn to data to guide their strategies.
Cloud Solutions & Enterprise Applications Management
Cloud solutions and ERP systems are critical for businesses to improve scalability and cost-efficiency. The salary outlook for cloud roles is:

GCCs: Rs 7.67 LPA
IT Products & Services: Rs 6.07 LPA
Non-Tech sectors: Rs 6.53 LPA
There is a noticeable rise in cloud-based roles across industries like BFSI, healthcare, and manufacturing, with salaries in non-tech sectors slightly higher than in IT products and services.
Top Job Roles and Salary Expectations

GCCs:

Penetration Tester: Rs 11.8 LPA
Data Scientist: Rs 9.6 LPA
Full Stack Developer: Rs 9 LPA
Software Developer: Rs 8.8 LPA
Customer Success Specialist: Rs 8.5 LPA
IT Products & Services:

Big Data Developer: Rs 9.7 LPA
IT Auditor: Rs 8.3 LPA
RPA Business Analyst: Rs 8 LPA
Cloud Security Engineer: Rs 7.5 LPA
IoT Engineer: Rs 6.9 LPA
Non-Tech Sectors:

Data Engineer: Rs 9.4 LPA
SAP ABAP Consultant: Rs 8.2 LPA
Cloud Support Engineer: Rs 7.5 LPA
Cybersecurity Analyst: Rs 6.9 LPA
Automation Engineer: Rs 6 LPA
Emerging Trends in the Job Market

India's job market for freshers is undergoing a shift. While hiring in traditional IT services has slowed down in recent years, Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and non-tech sectors are now leading the way by offering great opportunities. GCCs are expected to offer some of the highest salaries, particularly for roles like Penetration Testing and Data Science, with packages reaching up to Rs 11.8 LPA. The expansion of GCCs in India, which now employ more than 1.66 million people, is a key factor driving this trend.

Industries focusing on cybersecurity and data analytics are witnessing a rise in demand, making these sectors attractive for entry-level talent. To succeed, young professionals should focus on acquiring hybrid skills that align with the latest industry trends, as this will give them a competitive edge in securing high-paying jobs.