Work and Travel USA — for Jamaican university students
Spend your summer working legally in the USA on the J-1 Summer Work Travel visa: earn in US dollars, build international experience, and travel after the season. Jamaica is the #1 sending country in the world — and the rules here are stricter than anywhere else, so knowing them is your edge.
Typical jobs & wages
Pool lifeguard
$14–18/hr
Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC area
The classic Jamaican track: American Red Cross certification arranged before departure — swimming lessons available if you can't swim yet
Amusement parks
$13–16/hr
Ohio, New Jersey, Wisconsin Dells
Hotel / resort staff
$14–19/hr
Maine, Alaska, Colorado
Housing often provided by the employer
Restaurant / quick service
$12–16/hr + tips
East Coast beach towns
Retail & grocery
$13–15/hr
Resort towns nationwide
Season dates & timeline
Summer season
May 7 – September 7
Work through the summer, return for the new school year. A 30-day grace period for travel follows the work period.
Recruitment for the next summer opens the previous September–November with early-bird pricing. The strongest positions — especially lifeguard contracts with pre-departure certification — fill first. Apply in the autumn term.