How to Get Interviews for Jobs in Engieneering (Even Without Much Experience)

Thu Jul 03 2025

Getting that first break in tech can feel impossible. You’re staring at job posts asking for three years of experience when you just finished your degree, bootcamp, or self-paced portfolio. The good news? You don't need to check every box to get interviews for entry-level tech jobs.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to get interviews for jobs in tech when you’re just starting out, even with little or no formal experience. From resume strategy to applying smartly, we’ll give you an actionable path to get your foot in the door.

Why Entry-Level Tech Jobs Still Expect Experience

Let’s get this out of the way first: most “entry-level” jobs are mislabeled. Companies often list every tech buzzword, every platform, and a year count that feels arbitrary.

This happens because:

• Hiring managers reuse old templates
• They write ideal profiles, not realistic ones
• They want to limit unqualified applicants

But here’s the key: you don’t need to meet every requirement to apply. What matters more is how well you frame your skills, how clearly your resume communicates impact, and whether you show signs of being coachable and capable.

1. Tailor Your Resume for Every Job (Without Burning Out)

When you’re applying to dozens of roles, it's tempting to use the same resume. But many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before a human sees them.

Here’s how to beat the filter and stand out:

• Mirror the language of the job description. If they ask for “JavaScript” and you only wrote “JS,” match the term exactly.
• List projects with results. Even if they’re from a class or bootcamp, write what you built, how it works, and what tools you used.
• Use keywords naturally. Don’t stuff your resume, but make sure the tools, languages, and responsibilities show up where they make sense.

You don’t need to do this manually every time. Tools like OptApply’s AI Resume Optimizer make it easier to tailor your resume to each posting without starting from scratch.

2. Build a Project Portfolio that Shows, Not Tells

For junior tech roles, your portfolio is your experience.

You don’t need 10 polished apps. One or two well-documented projects can carry your resume farther than a bullet point about a group project.

What to include:

• A clear README that explains what your project does
• Screenshots or demos
• A short section explaining your role and impact

Want bonus points? Align one of your projects with the job you’re applying for. If it’s a backend job, highlight your APIs or database work. If it’s frontend, showcase UI/UX polish and responsiveness.

3. Apply to Jobs You’re 60 Percent Qualified For

Here’s a little truth no one tells early-career candidates: you don’t need to meet 100 percent of the requirements to apply.

Many job seekers filter themselves out too early. If you meet at least 60 percent of the listed skills and it’s a job you’d be excited to do, apply.

Hiring managers know entry-level candidates won’t be perfect. They’re often looking for signs that you’re:

• Motivated
• Coachable
• Aligned with the role’s core needs

Your resume’s job is to get you into the conversation. You can learn the rest on the job.

4. Follow Up the Right Way (Without Being Pushy)

Once you’ve applied, wait a few business days, then reach out via email or LinkedIn to reiterate your interest. Keep it short, specific, and polite.

Example:

Hi [Name],
I recently applied to the [Job Title] role at [Company] and wanted to follow up. I’m especially excited about the opportunity to work on [specific team, product, or stack]. I’d love to be considered and am happy to provide anything else you need.
Thanks,
[Your Name]

Many candidates never follow up. Doing so can help you stand out without being annoying.

For more ideas on improving your application process, check out our guide on common resume mistakes and how to fix them.

5. Use Smaller Platforms, Not Just Big Job Boards

Everyone uses LinkedIn and Indeed, which means entry-level roles get overwhelmed. Try mixing in more focused sites like:

• Otta.com (great for tech startups)
• AngelList Talent (startup-heavy)
• Himalayas (remote-focused)
• Local or university job boards

And don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn networking. A quick message to someone on the team can give you a lead or referral that skips the ATS entirely.

6. Keep Your LinkedIn Profile and GitHub Active

Hiring managers often look at your online presence before they even read your full resume. Keep it tight:

• LinkedIn: Add a concise headline like “Entry-Level Software Engineer | JavaScript, React, Node” and update your “About” section with the roles you’re targeting.
• GitHub: Make your pinned repos count. Show clean code, organized folders, and clear READMEs.

These signals add legitimacy and make it easier for someone to say “yes” to bringing you in.

Final Thoughts: Getting Interviews Is a Skill You Can Practice

Getting interviews for jobs in tech, especially as a beginner, is frustrating. But the people getting callbacks aren’t always the most experienced — they’re the most focused.

• Target the right roles
• Tailor your applications
• Show what you’ve built
• Follow up and keep going

You’ll get better as you go, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Want to get more interviews with less second-guessing?
Try OptApply — our AI-powered resume optimizer helps tailor your resume to each job posting in seconds, with formatting that gets past ATS filters and content that shows your value clearly.