start (one) out as (something)

start (one) out as (something)

To have one begin at some basic or low-level position, especially as the first stage in a process of development. Phil, start him out as a dishwasher and see how he does with that. Just because your boss started you out as a data-entry clerk doesn't mean that you can't move up in the company.
See also: out, start
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

start out as something

to begin one's career as something. I started out as a clerk and two years later I'm still a clerk! I wanted to start out as an assistant manager.
See also: out, start
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • start out as
  • kick (someone or something) down the ladder
  • kick someone down the ladder
  • penny-ante game, a
  • nurts to this/that
  • street pusher
  • popcorn pimp
  • nuts to this/that
  • nerts to this/that