If you want to work in the US, there are opportunities across healthcare, technology, construction, transportation, hospitality, administration, education, manufacturing and many other industries. However, finding the right opportunity requires more than simply searching for a job title. You also need to understand the qualifications, expected pay, location, application process and, if you are outside the United States, whether you have the legal authorization needed to work there.
For international job seekers, one of the biggest questions is often how to find a legitimate U.S. employer and whether the salary will make the move worthwhile. The answer depends heavily on the occupation, experience, location, employer and qualifications.
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This guide explains some of the jobs you can find in the United States, what they can pay, where to search for vacancies and what applicants should know before applying.
How Much Do Jobs in the US Pay?
There is no single salary for working in America. A software developer, registered nurse, truck driver, construction worker and hotel employee can have completely different earnings.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes wage information for hundreds of occupations. Its occupational employment and wage data can be used to compare typical earnings across different careers.
Here are examples of occupations and approximate national median annual wages:
| Job | Approximate Median Annual Pay |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $135,980 |
| Registered Nurse | $101,420 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $137,300 |
| Heavy Truck Driver | $59,710 |
| Medical Assistant | $46,120 |
| Nursing Assistant | About $42,700 |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide | About $36,120 |
| Electrician | Around $60,000+ |
| Carpenter | Around $60,000+ |
| Security Guard | Around $40,000+ |
| Accountant/Auditor | Around $80,000+ |
| Industrial Engineer | Around $100,000+ |
These figures are national wage estimates and should not be interpreted as guaranteed starting salaries. Actual compensation can be higher or lower depending on experience, location, employer, overtime, qualifications and other factors.
A job paying $70,000 in one part of the United States may provide a very different standard of living from a $70,000 job in another area because housing and other expenses vary significantly.
20+ Jobs Hiring in the US & Salaries
The U.S. labor market contains thousands of occupations. Below are some of the areas worth exploring if you are looking for work in America.
1. Software Developer Jobs
Software developers create and maintain applications, websites, computer programs and other digital products.
Technology companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, retailers and government agencies all employ technology professionals.
Software development is among the better-paid occupations in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual wage of $135,980 for software developers in May 2025.
People interested in these jobs may need skills in programming languages and technologies such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C#, SQL, cloud platforms or other development tools.
A university degree can be useful, but employers increasingly look at practical skills, experience and portfolios when hiring for some technology positions.
Typical skills include:
- Programming
- Web development
- Software engineering
- Database management
- Cloud computing
- Problem solving
- Testing and debugging
You can search for current federal technology positions through USAJOBS.
2. Registered Nurse Jobs
Healthcare is one of the largest employment sectors in America.
Registered nurses work in hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, doctors’ offices and other healthcare environments.
The median annual wage for registered nurses was $101,420 in May 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Nursing is a regulated profession, meaning applicants need to pay particular attention to licensing requirements.
Someone who qualified as a nurse outside the United States should not assume that the qualification automatically permits them to practice in America. State licensing rules and other requirements may apply.
3. Nurse Practitioner Jobs
Nurse practitioners are advanced healthcare professionals who provide different types of patient care depending on their specialty and state authorization.
The occupation has one of the higher median wages among healthcare careers. BLS reported a median annual wage of $137,300 in May 2025.
These positions generally require advanced education, professional credentials and appropriate licensing.
4. Truck Driver Jobs
Truck drivers play an important role in moving products around the United States.
Heavy and tractor-trailer drivers transport goods between distribution centers, warehouses, businesses and other locations.
The median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $59,710 in May 2025.
Requirements can include a commercial driver’s license, training, driving experience and other qualifications.
For international applicants, it is important to understand that possessing a foreign driver’s license does not automatically qualify someone to operate commercial vehicles in the United States.
5. Electrician Jobs
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, factories and construction projects.
The occupation can provide good earning potential, particularly for experienced workers and people with specialized skills.
Requirements differ between states and employers. Licensing may be required depending on the type of work being performed.
If you have electrical experience from another country, check the requirements in the state where you intend to work before accepting a position.
6. Medical Assistant Jobs
Medical assistants support healthcare facilities with administrative and clinical duties.
Their responsibilities may include scheduling appointments, preparing patients, maintaining records and assisting healthcare professionals.
The BLS reported a $46,120 median annual wage for medical assistants in May 2025.
This can be an interesting career option for people who want to work in healthcare but are not pursuing a professional role such as nursing or medicine.
7. Nursing Assistant Jobs
Nursing assistants help patients with everyday care and support healthcare professionals in hospitals, nursing facilities and other settings.
The work can include helping patients move, assisting with personal care and performing other duties according to the employer and applicable regulations.
Pay varies by location and employer, and certification requirements can differ between states.
8. Home Health and Personal Care Jobs
Home health and personal care workers assist people who need support with daily activities.
The work may involve helping with personal care, meals, mobility and household activities.
The median annual wage for home health and personal care aides was approximately $36,120 in May 2025.
Demand for care-related occupations is influenced by the needs of an aging population and the healthcare system.
9. Accounting Jobs
Accountants and auditors help businesses and organizations manage financial information.
Possible employers include:
- Banks
- Accounting firms
- Government agencies
- Technology companies
- Hospitals
- Retail companies
- Manufacturing businesses
Accounting professionals may work in auditing, taxation, financial reporting, management accounting or other specialties.
Pay varies according to experience, qualifications, location and specialization.
10. Engineering Jobs
Engineering is another broad career area in the United States.
Opportunities exist in:
- Civil engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Software engineering
- Chemical engineering
- Environmental engineering
Engineers can work in construction, manufacturing, technology, energy, transportation and other industries.
Many professional engineering positions require relevant educational qualifications, and some roles may have licensing requirements.
11. Construction Jobs
Construction companies employ workers across many different positions.
Examples include:
- Construction laborers
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Welders
- Equipment operators
- Site supervisors
- Project managers
Some entry-level construction jobs may not require a university degree, while skilled and supervisory positions generally require training and experience.
The amount workers earn depends on the trade, experience, location and employer.
12. Carpenter Jobs
Carpenters build, repair and install structures and materials used in construction.
They may work on residential buildings, commercial projects and other construction sites.
Experience with tools, measurements, building materials and construction methods can be important.
Apprenticeship and vocational training are common routes into the trade.
13. Warehouse Jobs
Warehouses and distribution centers employ workers in positions such as:
- Warehouse associate
- Order picker
- Inventory worker
- Forklift operator
- Shipping clerk
- Receiving associate
- Logistics coordinator
Some warehouse positions are entry-level, while supervisory roles may require previous experience.
Pay often depends on the location, shift, employer and responsibilities.
14. Customer Service Jobs
Customer service representatives communicate with customers by telephone, email, online chat or in person.
Companies in banking, retail, telecommunications, travel, insurance and technology employ customer service workers.
Important skills include communication, patience, problem solving and computer literacy.
Some customer service positions are available remotely, although applicants should carefully check whether a remote position is available internationally or only to people located in the United States.
15. Hotel and Hospitality Jobs
The hospitality industry provides jobs in hotels, resorts, restaurants and other businesses.
Positions include:
- Hotel receptionist
- Housekeeper
- Cook
- Restaurant worker
- Front desk employee
- Maintenance worker
- Food service worker
- Hotel manager
Requirements vary widely.
Some positions are entry-level, while management and specialized positions require significant experience.
16. Teaching Jobs
Schools and educational institutions employ teachers and other education professionals.
Teaching opportunities exist at different educational levels, including elementary, middle and high school.
International teachers may need to have their qualifications evaluated and meet state-specific certification requirements.
Before accepting an education position, check the requirements of the particular state and school system.
17. Administrative Assistant Jobs
Administrative assistants help organizations with daily office operations.
Typical duties can include:
- Scheduling
- Data entry
- Document preparation
- Email communication
- Record keeping
- Customer service
- Meeting coordination
Good communication and organizational skills are important.
Experience with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and other productivity tools can also help.
18. Data and Analytics Jobs
Companies increasingly rely on data to make business decisions.
Jobs in this area include:
- Data analyst
- Data scientist
- Business analyst
- Data engineer
- Database administrator
- Research analyst
Depending on the position, employers may look for skills in SQL, Python, statistics, spreadsheets, databases or data visualization.
Advanced data and technology roles can command high salaries, particularly for experienced professionals.
19. Security Jobs
Security guards protect people, buildings and property.
They can work at:
- Hospitals
- Shopping centers
- Warehouses
- Offices
- Residential buildings
- Hotels
- Events
- Transportation facilities
Some security positions require a state license, background check or other requirements.
Always check the conditions attached to the specific vacancy.
20. Manufacturing Jobs
Manufacturing remains an important part of the U.S. economy.
Companies hire workers for production, machine operation, quality control, maintenance, packaging, engineering and management.
Some manufacturing jobs are entry-level, while technical positions may require vocational training or engineering qualifications.
Where Can You Find Jobs in the US?
Finding a legitimate vacancy is one of the most important parts of the process.
Instead of relying entirely on social media posts, use established employment websites and official resources.
USAJOBS
USAJOBS is the official federal government employment website.
You can search by:
- Keyword
- Job title
- Location
- Salary
- Occupation
- Work schedule
- Remote work
- Hiring path
Search current jobs on USAJOBS
You can also create an account, save jobs and set up searches for positions that interest you.
CareerOneStop
CareerOneStop provides career, employment and training information for job seekers.
The website can help you explore careers, search for employment and find workforce resources.
American Job Centers
American Job Centers provide employment and training assistance in communities across the United States.
Can You Work in the US From Another Country?
Yes, people living outside the United States can apply for American jobs, but receiving a job offer and having legal permission to work are separate matters.
If you are outside the United States, you need to determine whether you qualify for an appropriate immigration category or work authorization.
The U.S. government provides information about temporary work visas and employment-based immigration.
Check U.S. temporary work visa information
Check U.S. immigrant work visa information
Do not assume that an employer promising a job automatically guarantees visa approval.
Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship is frequently mentioned in international job searches.
Some employers may sponsor qualified foreign workers when the position and immigration category allow it.
However, sponsorship is not available for every occupation or every applicant.
Before applying, look at the job description and check whether the employer states that it considers candidates who require sponsorship.
Search for terms such as:
- Visa sponsorship
- Sponsorship available
- H-1B sponsorship
- Employment sponsorship
- International applicants
Even when an employer is willing to sponsor a worker, immigration approval is handled under applicable U.S. immigration rules.
What Do You Need to Apply for a US Job?
The requirements depend on the position.
Common requirements include:
- Resume or CV
- Education
- Professional experience
- Skills
- Certifications
- References
- Professional license where required
- English communication ability for many jobs
- Legal authorization to work
Some jobs require a bachelor’s degree, while others may accept vocational training, experience or an industry certification.
How to Apply for Jobs in America
Start by identifying positions that match your qualifications.
Read the complete vacancy description before applying.
Check the:
Job title: Make sure you understand what the position involves.
Location: A job advertised as remote may still require you to live in the United States.
Salary: Look for the stated salary or hourly pay.
Qualifications: Confirm that you meet the required education, skills and experience.
Work authorization: Determine whether the employer accepts applicants who need sponsorship.
Deadline: Some vacancies close after receiving enough applications.
Once you find a suitable position, follow the employer’s official application instructions.
How to Prepare Your Resume
A strong resume can make it easier for an employer to understand your experience.
Include relevant information such as:
- Your name and contact details
- Professional summary
- Work history
- Education
- Skills
- Certifications
- Relevant achievements
Do not include false information.
If you have limited experience, focus on transferable skills, education, training, projects and achievements that are relevant to the position.
Can You Work in the US Without a Degree?
Yes, some American jobs do not require a university degree.
Examples can include certain positions in:
- Construction
- Warehousing
- Hospitality
- Transportation
- Customer service
- Maintenance
- Food service
- Skilled trades
However, no-degree does not mean no requirements.
A position may still require experience, training, certification, a driver’s license or a professional license.
And if you are outside the United States, you still need the appropriate legal authorization to work.
Remote Jobs With US Companies
Remote work has created another way for people to work with American businesses.
Potential remote careers include:
- Software development
- Writing
- Digital marketing
- Graphic design
- Customer service
- Data analysis
- Virtual assistance
- Web development
- Sales
- Project management
However, read the location requirements carefully.
A vacancy described as “remote” does not necessarily mean that someone can perform the job from another country.
Some companies only allow employees to work remotely from specific U.S. states.
Beware of Fake US Job Offers
People searching for jobs in America should be particularly careful with online recruitment scams.
A scammer may advertise a job with an unusually high salary and then ask the applicant to pay money before receiving an offer.
Be suspicious of requests for money for:
- Job registration
- Guaranteed employment
- Visa approval
- Recruitment
- Work permits
- Training
- Flight tickets
- Equipment
- Certificates
A legitimate job-search process should be independently verified.
Look for the employer’s official website and confirm that the vacancy exists there.
Do not send your passport, banking information or other sensitive documents to an unknown person simply because they claim to be a recruiter.
How Much Money Do You Need to Work in the US?
Salary is important, but it is not the only financial consideration.
Before accepting a job, consider:
- Housing
- Transportation
- Food
- Health insurance
- Taxes
- Childcare
- Utilities
- State and local expenses
For example, a salary that sounds attractive may not provide the same purchasing power in an expensive metropolitan area as it would in a lower-cost location.
Research the cost of living in the city or state where the job is located.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best jobs to work in the US?
There is no single best job for everyone. Technology, healthcare, engineering, skilled trades, transportation, logistics and other sectors offer different opportunities. The right choice depends on your qualifications, experience, salary expectations and career goals.
How much do jobs in the US pay?
Pay varies significantly. Some professional occupations have median annual wages above $100,000, while many entry-level positions have considerably lower salaries. Always check the actual salary or hourly rate in the vacancy.
Can foreigners get jobs in America?
Foreign nationals can work in the United States when they meet the requirements of an applicable immigration or employment authorization category. A job offer alone does not automatically provide permission to work.
Can I apply for a US job from Nigeria?
You can search and apply for U.S. jobs while living in Nigeria or another country. However, you should pay close attention to whether the employer accepts international applicants and whether the position provides or permits the work authorization you need.
Which US jobs pay more than $100,000?
Some healthcare, technology, engineering, management and specialized professional positions can have median wages above $100,000. Experience and location can also have a major effect on earnings.
Are there US jobs that do not require a degree?
Yes. Some positions in construction, transportation, hospitality, warehousing, maintenance, customer service and skilled trades may not require a four-year degree.
Where can I find legitimate US government jobs?
USAJOBS is the official federal government employment website.
Search current federal vacancies on USAJOBS
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed when a job says sponsorship?
No. Sponsorship and immigration approval are separate from the basic job application. Always verify the specific immigration requirements and employer policy.
Read also:United States of America Job Vacancies: 25+ Jobs Hiring Now in 2026
Final Thoughts
Working in the United States can provide opportunities in many different industries, but finding the right position requires research.
Start by choosing a career that matches your skills and experience. Compare salaries, check the location, understand the requirements and use legitimate employment websites when searching for vacancies.
If you are applying from outside the United States, pay particular attention to work authorization. Do not confuse a job offer with permission to work in America.
For current opportunities, start with reputable resources such as USAJOBS and CareerOneStop. When you find a vacancy, read the complete job description and apply through the employer’s legitimate application process.
Most importantly, be careful with offers that promise guaranteed employment, extremely high salaries or guaranteed visas in exchange for upfront payments. Verify every employer and vacancy before sharing sensitive information or sending money.