Google is one of the largest and most successful technology companies in the world. With offices around the globe and tens of thousands of employees, Google offers many different career opportunities across a wide range of fields. One common question that arises is whether Google hires for any positions that do not require a college degree.
Quick Answer
The quick answer is yes, Google does hire for some positions that do not require a 4-year college degree. While most of their technical and engineering roles do require a bachelor’s degree, Google does make exceptions in some cases based on skills and experience. Non-technical roles like sales, marketing, and operations also often do not require a bachelor’s degree.
Google’s Hiring Philosophy
Google is known for looking beyond just credentials when hiring and values skills over specific degrees. Their hiring philosophy focuses more on what you can do versus where you went to school. This opens the door for those without degrees to be considered for certain roles where their skills, experience and merit make them qualified candidates.
That said, the majority of Google’s technical workforce does hold at least a bachelor’s degree in fields like computer science, engineering, mathematics, and other related majors. But exceptions can be made with sufficient experience or demonstrable skills. Google values problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and hands-on experience just as much, if not more, than a college pedigree.
Non-Degree Technical Roles
Here are some examples of technical roles at Google that may not require a 4-year college degree:
- IT Support Technician
- Data Center Technician
- Product Support Specialist
- Technical Solutions Engineer
- Technical Program Manager
- Digital Media Specialist
For these types of positions, proven technical skills, experience, and credentials like certifications may carry more weight versus a college degree when evaluating candidates. Someone with no degree but deep hands-on experience as a systems administrator or programmer could be considered for certain technical roles.
IT Support Technician
Google’s IT Support Technicians provide technical assistance across Google’s networks. Responsibilities include:
- Troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues
- Performing repairs on equipment like printers, phones, laptops
- Responding to support tickets and customer requests
- Installing and configuring computer equipment and peripherals
Typically no degree is required, but certification like the CompTIA A+ is preferred along with experience in help desk support or a similar technical role. Strong troubleshooting and communication skills are highly valued.
Data Center Technician
Data Center Technicians help maintain and operate Google’s vast network of data centers and server infrastructure. Daily tasks involve:
- Installing, repairing, and upgrading servers and other hardware
- Performing routine maintenance checks on equipment
- Monitoring data center conditions like temperature and humidity
- Testing power supplies, batteries, generators
- Following detailed equipment diagrams and specifications
Typically data center techs have some background in electronics and electrical systems but do not necessarily need a college degree. Certifications like the CNET, CCNA or training in network operations are valued along with direct hands-on experience.
Non-Technical Roles
In addition to certain technical positions, Google also hires people without degrees for various corporate functional roles across departments like Sales, Marketing, Finance, HR, and more. Some examples include:
- Sales Coordinator
- Account Manager
- Recruiter
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Financial Analyst
In these corporate roles, Google often values work experience, people skills, and training over formal education. Proven ability to perform well in relevant business functions or environments can outweigh the need for a bachelor’s degree.
Sales Coordinator
Sales Coordinators provide key support to Google’s sales teams. Typical responsibilities are:
- Managing sales data, reporting, and tracking in CRM systems
- Communicating with clients on order status, fulfillment, billing etc.
- Preparing sales quotes, contracts, and client proposals
- Planning and coordinating sales meetings and events
- Researching accounts and assisting with prospecting
While a college degree may be preferred, proven administrative and organizational skills along with sales experience can potentially substitute for those without a bachelor’s degree. Attention to detail, communication abilities, and teamwork are key.
How to Get Hired Without a Degree
Here are some tips to boost your chances of getting hired at Google without a bachelor’s degree:
- Gain relevant skills and experience – Work or intern in fields related to the role you want. Getting hands-on experience goes a long way.
- Get certified – Complete certifications and training programs that provide job-specific skills.
- Build a strong resume – Showcase the skills, accomplishments, and quantified results most relevant to the role.
- Highlight online courses – Complete online classes and nanodegrees in technical and business skills.
- Ace the interview – Demonstrate the required competencies through thoughtful responses and examples.
- Show passion – Convey genuine interest in technology and Google’s mission.
At the end of the day, Google wants to hire smart, driven, self-motivated people who can excel at the job, regardless of their academic background. While getting an interview may be harder without a degree, you can still stand out as a candidate in other ways.
Google Career Certificates
Google also offers their own professional certificates, which can help demonstrate your job-readiness and skills. These programs are created by Google employees and only take 3-6 months to complete online. No degree or experience is required to enroll. Some of the certificate tracks available are:
- IT Support Certificate
- Project Management Certificate
- Data Analytics Certificate
- UX Design Certificate
Completing one of these programs can directly improve your chances of getting hired by Google for related roles. They see these certificates as an alternative path to qualifying for positions without a college degree.
Conclusion
While Google certainly employs many people with impressive academic credentials, they also make room for qualified candidates without degrees when their skills and experience warrant it. For both technical and non-technical roles, it is possible to get hired at Google without a bachelor’s degree in certain circumstances.
Gaining directly relevant skills through work experience, specialized training programs, and certifications can sometimes compensate for not having a degree. Google values practical ability and merit first and foremost. By mastering in-demand job skills and performing well in the interview process, those without degrees can still stand out.
So in summary, yes Google does have select positions open to smart, driven candidates ready to excel in the role, regardless of their educational pedigree. For the right people with the right mix of skills and experience, Google offers exciting career opportunities without necessarily requiring a college degree as tabled below:
Role | Degree Typically Required? |
---|---|
IT Support Technician | No |
Data Center Technician | No |
Sales Coordinator | No |
Software Engineer | Yes |
The key is to play to your strengths and showcase the abilities that make you the best fit for the specific job, regardless of your academic credentials. With the right skills and drive, even non-degree holders can pass Google’s rigorous hiring bar and launch thriving careers.
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