No Degree, No Problem. List of Minimum Wage Entry-Level Jobs in Louisiana

jobs available in LouisianaPhoto byJen Terry canva

Louisiana, like many states, has a minimum wage that is set at the federal level, which is $7.25 per hour as of 2024. This rate applies to most employees, though some positions may have specific exemptions or additional considerations. Here’s an overview of common minimum wage jobs in Louisiana, including typical roles and industries where these positions are prevalent:

Retail Sales Associates

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Retail sales associates work in stores and shops, assisting customers, managing transactions, and stocking shelves. This role often serves as an entry point into the retail industry.

Key Employers: Grocery stores, clothing retailers, electronics shops, and general merchandise stores.

Fast Food Workers

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $9.00

Description: Fast food workers handle various tasks, such as taking orders, preparing food, and maintaining cleanliness. This job is common in fast-food restaurants and quick-service eateries.

Key Employers: Chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and local fast food establishments.

Hospitality Staff (Housekeepers, Front Desk Clerks)

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Hospitality staff includes roles such as housekeepers, who clean guest rooms, and front desk clerks, who handle check-ins and customer inquiries. These positions are crucial in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Key Employers: Hotels, motels, and inns.

Janitors and Cleaners

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $9.50

Description: Janitors and cleaners maintain cleanliness in various settings, including offices, schools, and public buildings. Duties include sweeping, mopping, and trash removal.

Key Employers: Cleaning services, educational institutions, and office buildings.

Customer Service Representatives

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Customer service representatives interact with customers to address inquiries, resolve issues, and provide information about products and services. This role is often found in call centers and retail environments.

Key Employers: Customer service centers, retail stores, and companies with consumer support departments.

Food Preparation Workers

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $9.00

Description: Food preparation workers assist in the preparation of meals, including chopping vegetables, preparing ingredients, and following food safety protocols. This role is common in restaurants and food service establishments.

Key Employers: Restaurants, cafeterias, and catering companies.

Agricultural Workers

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $9.00

Description: Agricultural workers perform tasks such as planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops. This job is prevalent in rural areas and is often seasonal.

Key Employers: Farms, orchards, and agricultural production companies.

Home Health Aides

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Home health aides assist patients with daily living activities, including personal care and medication management. This role is important for individuals receiving care in their own homes.

Key Employers: Home care agencies and individual private clients.

Security Guards

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Security guards patrol and monitor properties to prevent theft, vandalism, and other disturbances. This job often involves working at various locations, including commercial and residential properties.

Key Employers: Security companies, corporate offices, and residential communities.

Warehouse Workers

Average Hourly Wage: $7.25 - $10.00

Description: Warehouse workers handle tasks such as packing, sorting, and shipping products. They are essential for managing inventory and ensuring the smooth operation of supply chains.

Key Employers: Distribution centers, retail chains, and logistics companies.

Minimum wage jobs in Louisiana provide essential services across a variety of industries. While these roles typically offer starting wages at or near the federal minimum wage, they also serve as important entry points into various fields and offer opportunities for advancement. For individuals seeking to enter the workforce or transition to a new career, these positions can provide valuable experience and a foundation for future growth. Of course, these are just a few that I have listed that do not require a college degree or prior experience. There are several jobs available where the starting pay is higher, but may require additional education or skill sets. I encourage you to investigate for yourself.

workforce in Louisiana at low wagesPhoto byJen Terry canva

Indeed. “50 + Minimum Wage Jobs.” Indeed, 2024, www.indeed.com/q-minimum-wage-l-shreveport,-la-jobs.html?aceid=&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgdn96ofehwMVkCCtBh1SjAj6EAMYAiAAEgJj1PD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&vjk=3b10785b2618126e. Accessed 5 Aug. 2024.

Jobs2Careers. “Entry Level Jobs in Shreveport.” Jobs2Careers, 2024, www.jobs2careers.com/search/results?adpos=&c1=2&c2=0&c3=entry%20level%20work&c4=119&c5=822&creative=621691014660&device=c&devicemodel=&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgdn96ofehwMVkCCtBh1SjAj6EAMYASAAEgKnA_D_BwE&ifcontent=&ifmobile=n&ifsearch=y&int=&kw=entry%20level%20work&l=71107%2C%20Louisiana&matchtype=b&network=g&pl=&q=Jobs%20Near%20Me&t9=3085&titleWithoutL=Find%20Your%20Next%20Job. Accessed 5 Aug. 2024.

Voss, Jackson. “It’s Time for Louisiana to Raise the Wage • Invest in Louisiana.” Invest in Louisiana, 26 Apr. 2022, investlouisiana.org/its-time-for-louisiana-to-raise-the-wage/.