Finding work in the USA

Learn how to find work in the USA, and get guidance on visas, resumes and networking.

Where to look for opportunities?

  • MyCareerHub advertises jobs and internships in the USA. Filter results by using the location function:

     MyCareerHub Opportunities (UoE login required)

  • GoinGlobal – this website provides career guides that cover countries including the USA and U.S. cities, with topics including job sites, networking groups, interview tips, and job and internship listings by city:

     GoinGlobal career guides (University of Edinburgh login required)      

  • targetjobs guide to “Working in the US” contains in-depth information on where you can work, job vacancy sources, work experience programmes, internships and visas. It also provides advice on qualifications recognised: 

     targetjobs - Working in the US

  • For internships, see the listings provided by Internships USA:

     US internships listings (UoE login required)

Immigration departments are the most reliable source of visa and immigration information. If you need guidance on visas, contact the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate for advice.

You can find visa information on the Prospects and targetjobs websites:

Work in the USA - Prospects

Working in the US - targetjobs


A resume is a concise, informative summary of your abilities, education and experience, highlighting your strengths and skills. Its length is usually one side of A4.

What to include in your resume

  • Your contact details
  • Your education – definitely your degree(s) but sometimes also pre-degree qualifications depending on what you’re applying for
  • Your work/volunteer experience
  • Any extracurricular activities
  • Your skills – technical, interpersonal, transferrable – they're all valuable!

With any experience you include, make sure to talk about your achievements in those positions, not just your responsibilities. Use plenty of action words and keep each bullet point fairly short.

Find more information on writing your resume, and examples, at the links below:

Harvard University Office of Career Services

Columbia University Center for Career Education CVs

LinkedIn Learning course for resume writing

Resume makeover. Rewriting your resume LinkedIn Learning course

CVs

In the USA CVs are typically used for academic applications like further study and academic jobs. They are much longer documents which detail all your experience and include your publications, research and full education history.


  • The University of Edinburgh Alumni LinkedIn group gives you access to over 20,000 members of the community. Explore careers, progression routes and make connections.  

     The University of Edinburgh Alumni - LinkedIn 

  • Make connections through the Edinburgh University North American Society (EUNAS) which is a community for students, alumni and faculty. EUNAS runs social events as well as careers related presentations:  

     Edinburgh University North American Society


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