The U.S. hospitality and tourism sector offers a wide range of jobs—from hotels, restaurants, and theme parks to travel agencies and cruise lines—catering to various skills and interests.
Working in the U.S. hospitality industry allows you to meet people from around the world, enhancing your cultural understanding and building an international professional network.
With clear career paths, training programs, and chances for promotion, the industry supports long-term professional growth, even for entry-level employees.
Many hospitality jobs offer attractive salaries, bonuses, tips, employee discounts, and health benefits, especially in well-established organizations.
If you thrive in energetic, customer-focused settings, this industry offers a stimulating work atmosphere where no two days are the same.
By joining this sector, you become part of one of the largest contributors to the U.S. economy, helping drive both local and national development.
With its world-renowned hotels, theme parks, national parks, luxury resorts, and bustling cities, the U.S. hospitality and tourism sector serves as a global stage. International candidates bring unique perspectives and languages that align perfectly with the multicultural nature of American tourism.
Whether it's working at a luxury hotel in New York, a ski resort in Colorado, a theme park in Florida, or a winery in California, opportunities are vast and varied. From front desk agents to event coordinators, chefs to tour guides, international professionals find roles that match their skills and passions.
Working in hospitality in the U.S. is more than just a job—it’s a cultural exchange. It allows candidates to improve their English skills, understand American customer service standards, and build relationships with people from all over the world. Many employers offer on-the-job training and career development programs that support long-term advancement.
Programs such as J-1 visas and internships offer structured opportunities for international candidates to gain hands-on experience in the U.S. hospitality industry. These programs often include housing assistance, cultural activities, and placement support, making the transition smoother and more rewarding.
Experience in the U.S. hospitality and tourism industry is highly respected worldwide. International candidates who start their careers here often go on to secure leadership roles in hotels, resorts, and tourism boards around the globe.
Front Desk Agent / Receptionist
Concierge
Housekeeping Staff
Hotel Manager / Assistant Manager
Night Auditor
Guest Services Representative
Bellhop / Porter
Room Attendant
Waiter / Waitress
Bartender
Host / Hostess
Chef / Sous Chef / Line Cook
Restaurant Manager
Food & Beverage Supervisor
Banquet Coordinator
Barista
Travel Agent / Consultant
Tour Guide
Tour Coordinator
Reservation Agent
Cruise Ship Staff
Airline Customer Service Representative
Flight Attendant (for international roles)
Event Coordinator
Meeting & Convention Planner
Wedding Planner
Catering Sales Manager
Venue Manager
Theme Park Attendant
Resort Activities Coordinator
Spa Attendant / Therapist
Fitness Instructor (at hotels/resorts)
Golf Course Staff
Call Center Agent (for hospitality companies)
Guest Relations Manager
Loyalty Program Coordinator
Human Resources Assistant (Hotel/Resort)
Accounting / Finance Staff
Marketing Coordinator
Inventory / Purchasing Clerk
Job Title |
Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Average Annual Salary (INR) |
---|---|---|
Hotel Manager |
$65,000 |
₹53,95,000 |
Front Desk Agent |
$32,000 |
₹26,56,000 |
Concierge |
$38,000 |
₹31,54,000 |
Housekeeping Supervisor |
$40,000 |
₹33,20,000 |
Executive Chef |
$75,000 |
₹62,25,000 |
Line Cook |
$34,000 |
₹28,22,000 |
Waiter / Waitress |
$30,000 |
₹24,90,000 |
Restaurant Manager |
$60,000 |
₹49,80,000 |
Bartender |
$33,000 |
₹27,39,000 |
Event Coordinator |
$50,000 |
₹41,50,000 |
Tour Guide |
$35,000 |
₹28,95,000 |
Travel Agent |
$44,000 |
₹36,52,000 |
Cruise Ship Staff (average) |
$48,000 |
₹39,84,000 |
Flight Attendant (int'l airlines) |
$56,000 |
₹46,48,000 |
Guest Services Manager |
$55,000 |
₹45,65,000 |
Spa Therapist |
$42,000 |
₹34,86,000 |
Resort Activities Coordinator |
$36,000 |
₹29,88,000 |
Banquet Manager |
$58,000 |
₹48,14,000 |
Catering Sales Manager |
$62,000 |
₹51,46,000 |
Marketing Coordinator (Hotel) |
$50,000 |
₹41,50,000 |
Criteria |
Details / Requirements |
---|---|
Work Authorization |
Must have a valid U.S. work visa (e.g., H-2B, J-1, H-1B for specialized roles, or Green Card). |
Visa Types Commonly Used |
J-1 Visa (Internships/Training programs) |
Educational Qualification |
High school diploma to bachelor’s degree depending on the job; vocational training preferred for technical roles. |
English Proficiency |
Basic to fluent English communication skills required (verbal and written); TOEFL/IELTS not always required but beneficial. |
Work Experience |
Entry-level roles may not require prior experience; mid-to-senior roles usually need 1–5 years of industry experience. |
Background Check |
Must pass background checks (criminal and sometimes financial), especially for customer-facing roles. |
Medical Fitness |
Some employers require a health check, especially for food service and cruise ship positions. |
Age Requirement |
Typically 18 years and older (21+ for roles involving alcohol service). |
Sponsorship Availability |
Not all employers provide visa sponsorship; applicants must apply to employers authorized to sponsor international workers. |
Cultural Adaptability |
Willingness to work in a multicultural, fast-paced environment is highly valued. |
Job Title |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|
Hotel Manager |
Oversee hotel operations, manage staff, ensure guest satisfaction, control budgets and quality. |
Front Desk Agent |
Greet guests, handle check-ins/outs, manage reservations, answer inquiries, and assist with requests. |
Concierge |
Provide guests with local information, book reservations/tickets, offer personalized services. |
Housekeeping Supervisor |
Supervise housekeeping staff, inspect rooms, maintain cleanliness standards, and manage supplies. |
Executive Chef |
Lead kitchen operations, design menus, maintain food quality, manage kitchen staff and costs. |
Line Cook |
Prepare food according to recipes, maintain cleanliness, and follow safety and hygiene standards. |
Waiter / Waitress |
Take orders, serve food and beverages, ensure guest satisfaction, and manage table cleanliness. |
Restaurant Manager |
Supervise restaurant staff, manage inventory, handle complaints, and ensure high service standards. |
Bartender |
Mix and serve drinks, ensure responsible alcohol service, and maintain bar cleanliness and inventory. |
Event Coordinator |
Plan and execute events, coordinate vendors, manage logistics, and ensure client satisfaction. |
Tour Guide |
Lead groups, provide historical and cultural information, ensure safety, and enhance visitor experience. |
Travel Agent |
Book travel arrangements, provide travel advice, offer package deals, and handle customer service. |
Cruise Ship Staff |
Provide guest services, manage activities, assist with dining or housekeeping depending on the role. |
Flight Attendant |
Ensure passenger safety, serve food/drinks, assist during emergencies, and provide customer care. |
Guest Services Manager |
Resolve guest complaints, supervise front office staff, and oversee service delivery. |
Spa Therapist |
Perform massages/treatments, maintain hygiene, and recommend wellness products/services. |
Resort Activities Coordinator |
Organize recreational programs, lead activities, and promote guest engagement. |
Banquet Manager |
Oversee banquet functions, coordinate setup and service, and supervise banquet staff. |
Catering Sales Manager |
Develop catering sales, meet clients, plan menus/events, and coordinate with kitchen and service staff. |
Marketing Coordinator (Hotel) |
Support marketing campaigns, manage social media, create promotions, and assist with branding. |
Job Title |
Education Required |
Experience |
English Proficiency |
Typical Visa Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hotel Manager |
Bachelor's in Hospitality or related |
3–5 years in hotel operations |
Fluent |
H-1B / J-1 (Trainee) |
Front Desk Agent |
High School Diploma |
0–1 year (entry-level) |
Good verbal skills |
J-1 / H-2B |
Concierge |
High School Diploma |
1–2 years in guest services |
Fluent |
J-1 / H-2B |
Housekeeping Supervisor |
High School Diploma |
2–3 years in housekeeping |
Basic to intermediate |
J-1 / H-2B |
Executive Chef |
Culinary Degree preferred |
5+ years in culinary management |
Fluent |
H-1B / O-1 (in special cases) |
Line Cook |
High School or Culinary Certificate |
1–2 years in kitchen roles |
Basic to good |
J-1 / H-2B |
Waiter / Waitress |
High School Diploma |
0–1 year (can be trained) |
Good verbal communication |
J-1 / H-2B |
Restaurant Manager |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality/Business |
3–5 years in F&B management |
Fluent |
H-1B |
Bartender |
High School Diploma + Certification |
1–2 years; must be 21+ |
Fluent |
J-1 / H-2B |
Event Coordinator |
Bachelor’s in Event Mgmt/Hospitality |
2–3 years in planning |
Fluent |
H-1B / J-1 |
Tour Guide |
High School Diploma |
1–2 years in tourism/guide work |
Good verbal skills |
J-1 / H-2B |
Travel Agent |
Associate’s/Bachelor’s preferred |
1–2 years |
Fluent |
H-1B |
Cruise Ship Staff |
Varies by role; High School minimum |
1–3 years in related field |
Fluent |
Company-sponsored (shipboard contracts) |
Flight Attendant |
High School Diploma; training req. |
0–1 year; training provided |
Fluent |
Company-sponsored; must be hired by airline |
Guest Services Manager |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality |
2–4 years in guest services |
Fluent |
H-1B / J-1 |
Spa Therapist |
Certification in Massage Therapy |
1–3 years of experience |
Basic to good |
J-1 / H-2B |
Resort Activities Coordinator |
High School or Associate’s Degree |
1–2 years in recreation |
Good |
J-1 / H-2B |
Banquet Manager |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality |
3–5 years in banquets/events |
Fluent |
H-1B |
Catering Sales Manager |
Bachelor’s in Business/Hospitality |
3+ years in catering/sales |
Fluent |
H-1B |
Marketing Coordinator (Hotel) |
Bachelor’s in Marketing or related |
1–3 years in marketing |
Fluent (writing/speaking) |
H-1B |
Job Level |
Typical Job Titles |
Experience Required |
---|---|---|
Entry-Level |
Front Desk Agent, Housekeeper, Waiter/Waitress, Line Cook, Bellhop, Tour Guide |
0–1 year (can be trained on the job) |
Skilled / Semi-Skilled |
Bartender, Concierge, Spa Therapist, Travel Agent, Activities Coordinator |
1–3 years in a relevant field |
Supervisory Level |
Housekeeping Supervisor, Guest Services Supervisor, Banquet Supervisor |
2–4 years, including team leadership |
Mid-Level Management |
Restaurant Manager, Event Coordinator, Sales Executive, Catering Manager |
3–5 years in hospitality and management |
Senior Management |
Hotel Manager, Executive Chef, Director of Operations |
5–10+ years of progressive experience |
Internships/Training |
J-1 Interns/Trainees, College students on CPT/OPT |
0–1 year or relevant education |
Company Name |
Industry Focus |
Common Visa Types Sponsored |
Known For |
---|---|---|---|
Marriott International |
Hotels & Resorts |
J-1, H-1B, H-2B (limited) |
Global hotel chain with internship/training programs |
Hilton Hotels & Resorts |
Hotels & Resorts |
J-1, H-1B |
Strong international internship and trainee programs |
Hyatt Hotels Corporation |
Hotels & Resorts |
J-1, H-1B |
J-1 hospitality internships & entry-level jobs |
Walt Disney World Resort |
Theme Parks & Resorts |
J-1, Cultural Exchange |
International College & Cultural Exchange Programs |
Four Seasons Hotels |
Luxury Hotels |
J-1, H-1B |
High-end hospitality roles, global recruitment |
Aramark |
Food Services, Stadiums, Parks |
H-2B, J-1 |
Seasonal jobs in national parks & event venues |
Delaware North |
Hospitality at Parks & Venues |
H-2B |
Seasonal hiring in national parks & resorts |
Vail Resorts |
Ski Resorts |
H-2B |
Seasonal winter/summer jobs at mountain resorts |
Great Wolf Lodge |
Water Park Resorts |
H-2B |
Seasonal hiring for resort operations |
Benchmark Global Hospitality |
Hotels, Resorts & Conference Centers |
J-1, H-2B |
Hosts many international interns and seasonal workers |
Carnival Cruise Line |
Cruise Line |
Company-specific contracts |
Hires globally for onboard hospitality staff |
Royal Caribbean Group |
Cruise Line |
Company-specific contracts |
Onboard entertainment, culinary, and service roles |
Norwegian Cruise Line |
Cruise Line |
Company-specific contracts |
Diverse hospitality roles at sea |
Sodexo USA |
Facilities & Hospitality Services |
J-1, H-1B |
Internships and global opportunities |
The Ritz-Carlton |
Luxury Hotels (Part of Marriott) |
J-1, H-1B |
High-end hospitality internships and management jobs |
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) |
Hotels (Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza) |
J-1, H-1B |
International trainee and management programs |
Six Flags |
Theme Parks |
J-1, H-2B |
Seasonal hospitality & ride operations |
Xanterra Travel Collection |
National Parks & Resorts |
H-2B |
Works in national parks (Yellowstone, etc.) |
The Greenbrier Resort |
Luxury Resort |
J-1, H-2B |
International culinary and hospitality hires |
Omni Hotels & Resorts |
Hotels & Resorts |
J-1, H-1B |
Offers seasonal and management internships |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (USD/year) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hotel Manager |
$65,000 |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality, 3–5 yrs experience, Fluent English |
Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG |
Manage daily hotel operations, staff, guest satisfaction, and budget |
Front Desk Agent |
$32,000 |
High School Diploma, 0–1 yr experience, Basic English |
Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Four Seasons |
Check-in/out, handle reservations, assist guests |
Concierge |
$38,000 |
High School Diploma, 1–2 yrs experience, Fluent English |
Ritz-Carlton, IHG, Marriott |
Provide local information, book services, offer personalized guest assistance |
Housekeeping Supervisor |
$40,000 |
High School Diploma, 2–3 yrs experience in housekeeping |
Aramark, Hilton, Marriott |
Supervise housekeeping staff, maintain cleanliness standards |
Executive Chef |
$75,000 |
Culinary degree, 5+ yrs experience in kitchens, Fluent English |
Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Carnival Cruise Line |
Lead kitchen team, menu planning, food quality control |
Line Cook |
$34,000 |
High School/Culinary Cert., 1–2 yrs experience, Basic English |
Sodexo, Vail Resorts, Aramark |
Food preparation, maintain hygiene and kitchen standards |
Waiter / Waitress |
$30,000 + tips |
High School Diploma, 0–1 yr experience, Good English |
Marriott, Disney, Hilton |
Take orders, serve food/drinks, ensure guest satisfaction |
Restaurant Manager |
$60,000 |
Bachelor's in Hospitality, 3–5 yrs F&B experience, Fluent English |
Hyatt, IHG, Sodexo |
Manage staff, inventory, customer service, and financial performance |
Bartender |
$33,000 + tips |
High School Diploma + Training, 1–2 yrs experience, Age 21+, Fluent English |
Hilton, Great Wolf Lodge, Aramark |
Prepare and serve beverages, manage bar inventory |
Event Coordinator |
$50,000 |
Bachelor’s in Event Management, 2–3 yrs experience, Fluent English |
Benchmark Hospitality, Marriott, Hyatt |
Plan events, coordinate logistics, manage client relationships |
Tour Guide |
$35,000 |
High School Diploma, 1–2 yrs tourism experience, Public speaking, Good English |
Xanterra, Travel USA, National Park Services |
Lead tours, provide local and cultural information, ensure safety |
Travel Agent |
$44,000 |
Associate/Bachelor’s, 1–2 yrs experience, Fluent English |
American Express Travel, AAA, Online platforms |
Plan and book travel, provide customer support and travel advice |
Cruise Ship Staff |
$48,000 |
High School Diploma, 1–3 yrs experience, Good English |
Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line |
Provide service on board (dining, housekeeping, activities) |
Flight Attendant |
$56,000 |
High School Diploma, Company Training, Fluent English |
Delta, United, American Airlines |
Ensure in-flight safety, serve passengers, assist in emergencies |
Guest Services Manager |
$55,000 |
Bachelor’s, 3–5 yrs guest service experience, Fluent English |
Hilton, Four Seasons, Marriott |
Oversee front desk, handle guest concerns, train service staff |
Spa Therapist |
$42,000 |
Certification in massage/therapy, 1–3 yrs experience, Basic English |
Ritz-Carlton, Spas at Resorts, Cruise Lines |
Perform massages, spa treatments, and maintain cleanliness |
Activities Coordinator |
$36,000 |
High School Diploma, 1–2 yrs experience, Good interpersonal skills |
Great Wolf Lodge, Vail Resorts, Xanterra |
Organize and lead recreational programs and events |
Banquet Manager |
$58,000 |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality, 3–5 yrs banquet experience, Fluent English |
Marriott, Hilton, Convention Centers |
Manage event setup, service staff, guest needs during banquets |
Catering Sales Manager |
$62,000 |
Bachelor’s in Hospitality/Marketing, 3+ yrs experience, Fluent English |
Hyatt, Sodexo, Hilton |
Sell and plan catering events, client relations, and coordination |
Marketing Coordinator |
$50,000 |
Bachelor’s in Marketing, 1–3 yrs experience, Fluent in written/spoken English |
Omni Hotels, Benchmark, IHG |
Support hotel marketing campaigns, social media, promotions |
Visa Type |
Purpose |
Eligibility |
Typical Roles |
Duration |
Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
J-1 Visa (Intern/Trainee) |
Internship / Training |
Current students (Intern) or recent grads; 1 year experience (Trainee) |
Front Desk Agent, Line Cook, Concierge, Event Assistant |
6–18 months |
Cultural exchange; requires sponsorship by a U.S. Department of State–authorized sponsor |
H-2B Visa |
Seasonal / Temporary Non-Agricultural Work |
18+, low to mid-skill level, job offer from certified U.S. employer |
Housekeeping, Servers, Resort Staff, Cooks, Park Attendants |
Up to 9 months (extendable to 3 years max) |
Limited to peak seasons (e.g. summer/winter); requires employer petition |
F-1 Visa (OPT/CPT) |
Student Work Authorization |
Enrolled in or recently graduated from U.S. college |
Internships, Entry-level Hotel & Tourism roles |
OPT: Up to 12 months; CPT: during study |
Must be related to field of study; requires DSO approval |
H-1B Visa |
Skilled Occupations |
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field |
Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, Marketing Coordinator |
Up to 6 years (initial 3 years + extensions) |
Requires employer sponsorship; lottery-based selection |
O-1 Visa |
Individuals with Extraordinary Ability |
Recognized achievements in hospitality, culinary, or tourism |
Executive Chef, Award-winning Event Manager |
Up to 3 years (extendable) |
Must show awards, media coverage, expert recognition |
TN Visa (Canada/Mexico Only) |
NAFTA Professional Roles |
Canadian or Mexican citizen; job offer in a qualifying role |
Hotel Manager (sometimes), Consultant roles |
Up to 3 years (renewable) |
Only available to NAFTA nationals; faster processing |
Green Card (Employment-Based) |
Permanent Residency |
Job offer + sponsorship by U.S. employer; depends on category |
High-level management roles, skilled chefs, hospitality specialists |
Permanent |
Long-term option; employer must file labor certification (PERM |