750 summer jobs across 30 US destinations available as USIT opens for 2027 JI job hunt
• Over 300 Irish students expected to interview with American employers at Dublin hiring fairs in January
USIT, Ireland’s leading specialist in student work and travel programmes, has officially opened its 2027 J1 Job Hub, with 750 summer jobs available across 30 destinations in the United States.
From Chicago and Boston to San Diego, Irish students can now explore employment opportunities for summer 2027, with further positions expected to be added over the coming months.
USIT will also host hiring fairs at Dublin’s Gresham Hotel on 20 and 21 January, where over 300 students are expected to interview with employers from San Diego and Chicago.
Available roles include front-of-house positions, cashiers, amusement park attendants and hosts.
With official US Embassy statistics still being finalised, USIT estimates that approximately 5,000 Irish students participated in the J1 programme in summer 2026, broadly in line with the previous year.
USIT estimates that approximately 5,000 Irish students participated in the J1 programme in summer 2026, broadly in line with 2025 levels, with further clarity expected as the US Department of State releases its official statistics in the coming months.
Lisa Collender, Head of Ireland and Advocacy at USIT, said: “The opening of our Job Hub is always an exciting time because students can start exploring where they might spend their summer and what kind of work they’d like to do.
“A J1 gives students the chance to experience life in another country, earn money, meet people from all over the world and develop confidence in a way that’s difficult to replicate at home.
“We always encourage students to start looking early, particularly if they have their hearts set on a particular city or want a job that offers employer-provided accommodation.
“With 750 positions already available, there’s plenty to explore, and we’ll be adding more opportunities over the coming months.”
With 42% of USIT’s summer 2026 participants in their final year of college, the J1 remains a popular opportunity for students keen to experience life abroad before beginning the next stage of their careers.
The benefits extend beyond the summer itself. USIT’s latest J1 survey found that 92% of respondents improved their adaptability and resilience, 86% strengthened their confidence and personal development, and 84% improved their communication skills.
The J1 programme also continues to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Ireland and the United States through cultural exchange and opportunities for young people to experience life in another country.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, said: “Ireland greatly values the depth of its people-to-people links with the United States. For generations, these ties have been strengthened through educational, cultural and professional exchanges, with programmes such as the J-1 visa providing young people with the opportunity to experience life and work across the US.
“Summer 2027 presents another opportunity for students to broaden their horizons, build friendships, and gain experiences that will benefit them in their lives ahead.
“We look forward to seeing many more students take up this excellent opportunity and encourage all participants to be TravelWise, look after each other, and make the right memories.”
For those who travelled this summer, the experience has left a lasting impression.
Caoimhe Murray, a UCC graduate who spent her J1 summer in Newport, Rhode Island, said: “My J1 summer was the greatest experience of my life. Getting to spend my summer in Newport, Rhode Island was an absolute dream, where I created so many amazing memories and friendships that I will have for life!
“It was an incredible opportunity that would not have been possible without the service and support provided by USIT.”
Dara McStay, a University of Galway student from Ballina, Co. Mayo, who spent the summer working in Chicago, added: “My summer working in Chicago was an experience I’ll never forget.
“I went in not knowing exactly what to expect, and came home with incredible memories. Take the leap and go, you won’t regret it!”
With more than 65 years of experience, USIT supports students throughout the J1 process, from finding employment and preparing visa documentation to departure preparations and assistance while in the United States.
Students can explore available positions and learn more about the 2027 J1 Summer Work and Travel programme at www.usit.ie or by following @usittravel on social media.
