The marketing industry offers a wide variety of career paths, and for new graduates, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This article explores various marketing roles for new graduates that focus on traditional and direct approaches. Whether you’re interested in community outreach, print advertising, sales promotions, or public relations, there are plenty of opportunities to launch a rewarding career. We’ll cover the key responsibilities, required skills for marketing jobs, average starting salaries, and what each role could lead to over time.
1. Marketing Coordinator
Overview:
A marketing coordinator is often the starting point for many new graduates entering traditional marketing. This role supports the marketing team by organizing campaigns, managing timelines, and coordinating print or event-based promotions.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with planning and executing marketing campaigns
- Coordinate with vendors for print materials, signage, or direct mail
- Support event planning and promotional efforts
- Maintain brand consistency across offline materials
- Report on campaign performance
Key Skills:
- Strong organizational and communication abilities
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Basic knowledge of market research and consumer behavior
Career Progression:
- Marketing Coordinator → Marketing Specialist → Marketing Manager → Marketing Director
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $45,000 to $55,000 per year (varies by region and industry)
2. Brand Ambassador
Overview:
For those who enjoy face-to-face interaction and have outgoing personalities, becoming a brand ambassador is one of the best entry-level marketing jobs. These professionals represent a brand at events, retail locations, or public spaces, helping raise awareness and drive product interest.
Responsibilities:
- Promote products or services in person at various events
- Distribute samples, coupons, or promotional materials
- Engage with the public to answer questions
- Provide feedback to marketing teams about customer reactions
- Support local community marketing initiatives
Key Skills:
- Excellent interpersonal communication
- Customer service mindset
- Energetic and enthusiastic demeanor
- Ability to learn and present product details quickly
Career Progression:
- Brand Ambassador → Field Marketing Representative → Regional Marketing Manager → Experiential Marketing Director
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $18 to $25 per hour (may vary based on hours and commission structure)
3. Direct Mail Marketing Assistant
Overview:
Despite the digital age, direct mail remains a powerful method to reach customers, especially for local businesses. A Direct Mail Marketing Assistant helps execute physical mail campaigns, ensuring timely and effective communication with target audiences.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in planning and executing mailing campaigns
- Manage mailing lists and segmentation
- Coordinate with print and distribution vendors
- Track response rates and campaign ROI
- Ensure brand and message alignment in mailers
Key Skills:
- Strong attention to detail
- Data organization and spreadsheet management
- Project coordination
- Understanding of customer demographics
Career Progression:
- Direct Mail Assistant → Direct Marketing Specialist → Campaign Manager → Traditional Marketing Director
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $42,000 to $52,000 per year
4. Sales and Promotions Assistant
Overview:
Sales and promotions roles blend marketing knowledge with hands-on selling. These assistants work closely with sales and marketing teams to implement promotions, drive product sales, and create brand visibility through retail partnerships and pop-up events.
Responsibilities:
- Set up in-store or event-based promotional displays
- Coordinate promotional materials and samples
- Track sales data related to promotional campaigns
- Support territory marketing reps in local sales pushes
- Help generate leads through face-to-face engagement
Key Skills:
- Strong interpersonal communication
- Time and territory management
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Confidence in public speaking
Career Progression:
- Sales Promotions Assistant → Promotions Coordinator → Sales Promotions Manager → Trade Marketing Manager
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $40,000 to $50,000 per year, with possible commission bonuses
5. Public Relations Assistant
Overview:
Public relations (PR) is essential for shaping how a brand is perceived. PR Assistants help execute campaigns designed to build goodwill, manage media coverage, and maintain positive public impressions. This is one of the more communication-heavy marketing roles for new graduates.
Responsibilities:
- Draft press releases and assist in media pitching
- Monitor news coverage and compile media reports
- Coordinate press kits and event logistics
- Support crisis communication efforts
- Assist with public events and sponsorships
Key Skills:
- Writing and editing
- Media relations
- Organization and multitasking
- Understanding of brand voice and messaging
Career Progression:
- PR Assistant → PR Specialist → Communications Manager → Director of Public Relations
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $45,000 to $55,000 per year
6. Event Marketing Assistant
Overview:
Event marketing is all about creating memorable experiences that connect consumers with brands. As an assistant in this area, you’ll help plan and execute in-person events like product launches, trade shows, and pop-up experiences.
Responsibilities:
- Help coordinate event logistics (venue, materials, permits)
- Support the setup and breakdown of events
- Assist in staff scheduling and communication
- Capture customer feedback during and after events
- Liaise with vendors, sponsors, and other stakeholders
Key Skills:
- Project management
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Customer service
- Creative thinking
Career Progression:
- Event Marketing Assistant → Event Coordinator → Experiential Marketing Manager → Event Marketing Director
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $42,000 to $53,000 per year, plus travel stipends in some roles
7. Field Marketing Representative
Overview:
Field marketing representatives are boots-on-the-ground professionals who act as the face of a brand in local areas. This role requires travel within a region and is ideal for graduates who enjoy mobility, independence, and direct interaction.
Responsibilities:
- Promote brand awareness in assigned regions
- Conduct product demos and presentations
- Build relationships with local retailers or distributors
- Collect market feedback and report to HQ
- Assist with signage and merchandising
Key Skills:
- Strong communication and persuasion
- Self-motivation and independence
- Organizational ability
- Willingness to travel frequently
Career Progression:
- Field Marketing Rep → Regional Marketing Manager → National Field Marketing Lead → VP of Field Operations
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $48,000 to $58,000 per year, plus mileage reimbursement
8. Advertising Sales Assistant
Overview:
For graduates interested in the business side of marketing, advertising sales roles provide insight into how media campaigns are bought and sold. This assistant role supports advertising sales reps in managing accounts and preparing proposals for clients.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare media kits and sales presentations
- Schedule appointments and follow-ups with clients
- Assist in managing advertising contracts
- Monitor campaign placements and deadlines
- Support relationship management with local advertisers
Key Skills:
- Business communication
- CRM software familiarity
- Time management
- Understanding of ad placements (radio, print, TV)
Career Progression:
- Advertising Sales Assistant → Account Executive → Media Sales Manager → Advertising Director
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $43,000 to $55,000 per year, with commission potential
9. Community Outreach Coordinator
Overview:
This role is especially useful for nonprofits, healthcare, education, or municipal organizations. A Community Outreach Coordinator helps build awareness through real-world engagement with community groups, schools, and civic organizations.
Responsibilities:
- Develop partnerships with local organizations
- Organize workshops, seminars, or community events
- Represent the brand at local forums or meetings
- Distribute promotional and educational materials
- Report on outreach effectiveness
Key Skills:
- Public speaking and networking
- Cultural awareness and empathy
- Coordination and planning
- Passion for community impact
Career Progression:
- Outreach Coordinator → Community Engagement Manager → Public Affairs Specialist → Director of Community Relations
Average Entry-Level Salary:
- $40,000 to $50,000 per year
Important Skills for New Graduates Entering Marketing
While each job has its own focus, there are several core skills for marketing jobs that will help you succeed in any direct or traditional marketing role:
- Verbal and written communication: Whether you’re pitching in person or crafting a press release, clarity matters.
- Interpersonal skills: Building rapport is critical in customer-facing roles.
- Organization: Many roles involve juggling deadlines, materials, and vendors.
- Creativity: Traditional marketing still requires innovative thinking to stand out.
- Adaptability: Being able to adjust on the fly is essential when working events or managing campaigns in the field.
By developing these foundational skills, new graduates position themselves for fast-track growth in various roles.
Find a Job in Marketing that Suits Your Career Goals
Choosing your first marketing job is a major step, and there are plenty of exciting paths beyond digital campaigns and social media. The world of direct and traditional marketing offers dynamic, people-oriented roles that are perfect for those who enjoy face-to-face communication and hands-on experiences.
Whether you’re coordinating an event, pitching to local businesses, or promoting a brand at
a community fair, there’s immense value in the real-world connection these roles offer. These marketing roles for new graduates allow you to learn by doing, develop practical skills, and create a strong foundation for long-term career growth.
D.I.M.E. helps you achieve next-level results through tailored brand positioning, strategic communication, and data-informed execution. Expand your reach with precision targeting, data-driven outreach, and compelling messaging that attracts high-value prospects and drives conversions. Book a consultation to learn more about our marketing services and solutions.