As the birthplace of California and its sunniest city, San Diego proudly celebrates its Mexican heritage and year-round outdoor spaces. Away from the lively boardwalks and pristine beaches of the coast, the Old Town is an eclectic mix of historic haciendas, lively tequila bars and colourful taquerias – whipping up some of the best tacos you’ll find out of Mexico itself. While San Diego’s backyard, Balboa Park, is a gargantuan, 1,200-acre complex of gardens, public spaces, museums, art galleries, music venues and the city’s famous zoo – which is a world-leader in conservation.

For obvious reasons, San Diego has a huge influx of both domestic and international tourists over the summer months, making it highly-competitive for both jobs and the housing market. It therefore pays to apply early, but the rewards are more than worth it. People here look like they’re constantly on holiday with their tan and their gleaming pearly-white smiles. There’s a reason it’s called ‘America’s finest city’ after all…

It may be famous for tacos, beach, the sunny weather and surfing, but San Diego is also home to industries including technological research, biotechnology, green energy and IT. Hospitality and tourism are thriving sectors for obvious reasons, as are medical research, business, healthcare, higher education, maritime industries and defence (San Diego is home to one-third of the US Marines).

The average wage here per hour is give or take USD $15-20, and there’s also often perks such as complimentary housing, tips, staff meals and end of bonus contracts up to USD $500 here too. Each year, we have 1,000+ J1 jobs with our tried-and-trusted US employers across America. Book onto J1 early and select ‘USIT Job’ for access to our online Job Hub where you can search, apply and get hired.