The Work and Travel USA program is an excellent opportunity for students from around the world to combine summer travel with work that not only provides for living expenses but also helps gain valuable professional experience.
Choosing the right employer and job position is crucial, so it’s important to understand the differences between the popular job offers. Below, we present the most frequently chosen options within the W&T USA cultural exchange program.
Lifeguard at an Amusement Park or at a residential Pool
Salary: Lifeguard wages vary depending on the location and type of facility. In amusement parks, earnings range from $10-15 per hour, while at residential pools, wages typically range from $15-25 per hour.
Responsibilities: A lifeguard in an amusement park is responsible for the safety of visitors over a larger area, often covering several different water attractions. Working at a residential pool provides a more intimate environment, focusing on a smaller number of people, which allows for building closer relationships with regular guests.
Peculiarities: Working in an amusement park often involves more intense interaction with tourists and various challenges, such as managing multiple attractions and stations. In contrast, a residential pool offers a more stable job with fewer tasks to handle simultaneously. A lifeguard at a residential pool has the opportunity to bond with guests, offering a deeper glimpse into their lifestyle and American culture “from the inside.”
Waiter
Salary: Waiters can expect an hourly wage of $2-10, but the main source of income is tips, which can significantly increase total earnings to $15-25 per hour.
Responsibilities: Waiters serve restaurant guests, take orders, serve meals, and ensure tables are clean. This job requires excellent communication and organizational skills.
Peculiarities: The waiter position is ideal for those who enjoy working with people and can quickly respond to their needs. Tips can significantly boost earnings but also require a high level of service quality.
Housekeeper
Salary: Hourly wages for housekeepers typically range from $9-12. Depending on the workplace, they may also receive tips from guests.
Responsibilities: Housekeepers are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of hotel rooms, changing linens, towels, and restocking toiletries and other essentials.
Peculiarities: Housekeeping is suited for individuals who are diligent, organized, and attentive to detail. While the work can be monotonous, its advantage lies in a slower pace compared to other positions.
Retail Associate
Salary: Retail wages usually range from $9-13 per hour, depending on the location and type of store.
Responsibilities: Main tasks include customer service, assisting with purchases, restocking merchandise, and maintaining store aesthetics.
Peculiarities: Working in retail is a great opportunity to learn customer service and gain sales experience. It’s a dynamic job requiring communication skills and patience.
Kitchen Assistant
Salary: The salary for a kitchen assistant typically ranges from $10-14 per hour, depending on the restaurant and location.
Responsibilities: Kitchen assistants help prepare ingredients, maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, and assist in food preparation.
Peculiarities: Working in a kitchen is a challenge for those who enjoy a fast pace and teamwork. It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn the basics of cooking from professionals.
Cashier in a Supermarket
Salary: Cashier wages in supermarkets range from $9 to $12 per hour.
Responsibilities: Cashiers handle the cash register, accept payments from customers, and keep their workspace tidy.
Peculiarities: Cashier work requires precision, patience, and quick math skills. It’s a stationary job, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage depending on personal preference.
Room Attendant
Salary: Room attendants can earn between $10 and $14 per hour.
Responsibilities: Room attendants ensure guest comfort in hotels or guesthouses, manage check-ins, provide information, and respond to guest needs.
Peculiarities: The room attendant role is ideal for those who value direct customer interaction and can quickly adapt to various situations.
Café Worker
Salary: Café workers can earn between $9 and $13 per hour, depending on the location.
Responsibilities: Café workers take orders, prepare drinks and light meals, and serve customers.
Peculiarities: Working in a café is a great option for those who enjoy a fast-paced work environment and interacting with people. It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn the art of coffee making.
Summary – The Most Popular Job Offers in the Work and Travel USA Program
The Work and Travel USA program offers a wide range of opportunities that allow participants to gain valuable work experience, meet new people, and experience an unforgettable summer.
When choosing a summer job offer, it’s important to carefully analyze different positions to see which one best fits your expectations and capabilities. Remember that to participate in the Work and Travel USA program, you must have an active student status and a J1 visa, which allows for legal work in the United States. Also, keep in mind that better English skills will help you fully immerse yourself in the cultural exchange. The program cost includes visa-related fees and administrative charges, so it’s important to consider these in your planning.
The Easy Travel Abroad agency assists in selecting the right job offers and locations according to your preferences, advising on the best options to help you enjoy a dream summer in the USA. With assistance from Easy Travel Abroad, including their premium service, you have the opportunity to choose from various job offers in different locations – from DC to Alaska. Remember, when choosing a job position, you can work and enjoy your summer vacation while exploring new cultures and meeting people in the USA.
Contact us, check the latest job offers, and start your American adventure today!
