J-1 Visa Developer Relations Jobs
Developer Relations roles in the United States are accessible to international professionals through the J-1 visa under the Trainee or Intern program categories, depending on your career stage. These programs require a designated U.S. Department of State sponsor organization to issue your DS-2019 and oversee sponsorship. No annual cap or lottery applies.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
This on-campus internship is intended for active University of South Florida (USF) undergraduate students who have received the Federal Work Study (FWS) award in their financial aid package for the 2026-2027 year. Students without the FWS award and nonstudents are not eligible candidates for this position.
The Guest Relations Intern serves as a key member of the Center for Career & Professional Development (CCPD) team by serving as a welcoming and helpful ambassador of the office. Interns will ensure guests receive a great impression of the office through all interactions, while delivering timely, accurate, and professional assistance.
Through hands-on experience in guest support, operational responsibilities, and project-based assignments with other areas of the office, interns will develop transferable skills in communication, professionalism, time management, and workplace collaboration. By the end of the year, the intern will also strengthen a number of NACE Career Readiness Competencies.
Responsibilities
- Represent the CCPD professionally in all interactions with students, alumni, employers, faculty, staff, parents, and visitors, strengthening Communication and Professionalism competencies.
- Provide front-line guest support by assessing needs, providing accurate information, and making appropriate referrals while applying Critical Thinking and Communication skills.
- Support daily office operations through appointment check-ins, records management, and use of Handshake and other systems, strengthening Technology and Professionalism competencies.
- Develop and maintain knowledge of CCPD’s programs, services, and resources to provide effective service delivery, strengthening Career & Self-Development competency.
- Maintain a professional, organized, and welcoming environment within shared office spaces, strengthening Leadership and Professionalism competencies.
- Participate in cross-training opportunities and provide operational support across the office, including Suit-A-Bull, career events, employer engagement activities, and other office initiatives as needed, building Teamwork, Communication, and Professionalism competencies.
- Provide administrative and project support to a designated partner team within the office, gaining experience in Teamwork, Leadership, Technology, and Career & Self Development. Projects will vary based on departmental priorities and intern skill areas.
- Other assigned duties as assigned.
Time Commitment
- This position is fully in-person and based on the Tampa campus. The CCPD office is located in the Student Services Building (SVC), room SVC 2088.
- Students may work up to 20 hours per week as an FWS student employee, with their maximum hours dictated by the FWS Award amount they received for the year.
- Work schedules will be determined based on office needs and student availability during operating hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- This position is expected to begin at the start of the Fall 2026 semester, with a strong preference for candidates who can commit through the end of the Spring 2028 semester.
- Opportunity to continue during the Summer 2027 semester and renewal for Fall 2027– Spring 2028 academic year will be based on performance and program needs, as well as continued FWS Award receipt.
Opportunities
- Gain hands-on experience and skill development in customer service, office operations, event support, and cross-functional project work.
- Learn and demonstrate basic employability skills such as timeliness to work, appropriate dress, interpersonal communication, time management, self-advocacy, and personal development.
- Develop NACE competencies in Career & Self-Development; Communication; Critical Thinking; Leadership; Professionalism; Teamwork; and Technology.
- Participate in project-based learning through collaboration with other teams within the office.
- Gain exposure to career development services, student programs, and employer engagement.
- Receive career coaching and mentorship, supporting Career & Self-Development competency.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Current USF undergraduate student.
- Recipient of Federal Work Study funding for the applicable academic year.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous experience in customer service, student leadership, retail, hospitality, office support, or campus involvement.
- Familiarity with CCPD services and programs, including prior use of services or attendance at events.
- Demonstrated interest in developing Communication, Leadership, Teamwork, and Career & Self-Development competencies.
General Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to assist through in-person, phone call, email, and Microsoft Teams.
- Professionalism, friendly, and customer service orientation.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and virtual communication platforms.
- Commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all guests.
Required Application Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Screenshot of Fall Class Schedule (must show your name on the screen)
- Screenshot of Federal Work Study Award (must show your name on the screen)
Contact Information
Please learn more about the Center for Career and Professional Development by visiting our website at https://careers.usf.edu/. For questions regarding this position, please contact TPACareers@usf.edu.
WORKING AT USF
With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.
ABOUT USF
The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference.
COMPLIANCE AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.
INTRODUCTION
This on-campus internship is intended for active University of South Florida (USF) undergraduate students who have received the Federal Work Study (FWS) award in their financial aid package for the 2026-2027 year. Students without the FWS award and nonstudents are not eligible candidates for this position.
The Guest Relations Intern serves as a key member of the Center for Career & Professional Development (CCPD) team by serving as a welcoming and helpful ambassador of the office. Interns will ensure guests receive a great impression of the office through all interactions, while delivering timely, accurate, and professional assistance.
Through hands-on experience in guest support, operational responsibilities, and project-based assignments with other areas of the office, interns will develop transferable skills in communication, professionalism, time management, and workplace collaboration. By the end of the year, the intern will also strengthen a number of NACE Career Readiness Competencies.
Responsibilities
- Represent the CCPD professionally in all interactions with students, alumni, employers, faculty, staff, parents, and visitors, strengthening Communication and Professionalism competencies.
- Provide front-line guest support by assessing needs, providing accurate information, and making appropriate referrals while applying Critical Thinking and Communication skills.
- Support daily office operations through appointment check-ins, records management, and use of Handshake and other systems, strengthening Technology and Professionalism competencies.
- Develop and maintain knowledge of CCPD’s programs, services, and resources to provide effective service delivery, strengthening Career & Self-Development competency.
- Maintain a professional, organized, and welcoming environment within shared office spaces, strengthening Leadership and Professionalism competencies.
- Participate in cross-training opportunities and provide operational support across the office, including Suit-A-Bull, career events, employer engagement activities, and other office initiatives as needed, building Teamwork, Communication, and Professionalism competencies.
- Provide administrative and project support to a designated partner team within the office, gaining experience in Teamwork, Leadership, Technology, and Career & Self Development. Projects will vary based on departmental priorities and intern skill areas.
- Other assigned duties as assigned.
Time Commitment
- This position is fully in-person and based on the Tampa campus. The CCPD office is located in the Student Services Building (SVC), room SVC 2088.
- Students may work up to 20 hours per week as an FWS student employee, with their maximum hours dictated by the FWS Award amount they received for the year.
- Work schedules will be determined based on office needs and student availability during operating hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- This position is expected to begin at the start of the Fall 2026 semester, with a strong preference for candidates who can commit through the end of the Spring 2028 semester.
- Opportunity to continue during the Summer 2027 semester and renewal for Fall 2027– Spring 2028 academic year will be based on performance and program needs, as well as continued FWS Award receipt.
Opportunities
- Gain hands-on experience and skill development in customer service, office operations, event support, and cross-functional project work.
- Learn and demonstrate basic employability skills such as timeliness to work, appropriate dress, interpersonal communication, time management, self-advocacy, and personal development.
- Develop NACE competencies in Career & Self-Development; Communication; Critical Thinking; Leadership; Professionalism; Teamwork; and Technology.
- Participate in project-based learning through collaboration with other teams within the office.
- Gain exposure to career development services, student programs, and employer engagement.
- Receive career coaching and mentorship, supporting Career & Self-Development competency.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Current USF undergraduate student.
- Recipient of Federal Work Study funding for the applicable academic year.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous experience in customer service, student leadership, retail, hospitality, office support, or campus involvement.
- Familiarity with CCPD services and programs, including prior use of services or attendance at events.
- Demonstrated interest in developing Communication, Leadership, Teamwork, and Career & Self-Development competencies.
General Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to assist through in-person, phone call, email, and Microsoft Teams.
- Professionalism, friendly, and customer service orientation.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and virtual communication platforms.
- Commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all guests.
Required Application Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Screenshot of Fall Class Schedule (must show your name on the screen)
- Screenshot of Federal Work Study Award (must show your name on the screen)
Contact Information
Please learn more about the Center for Career and Professional Development by visiting our website at https://careers.usf.edu/. For questions regarding this position, please contact TPACareers@usf.edu.
WORKING AT USF
With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.
ABOUT USF
The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference.
COMPLIANCE AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.
See all J-1 Visa Developer Relations Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa Developer Relations Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship in Developer Relations
Document your technical communication portfolio
Assemble code samples, recorded talks, written tutorials, and community contributions before approaching host employers. DevRel roles require demonstrated public-facing output, and your DS-2019 training plan must map directly to those deliverable types.
Distinguish Intern from Trainee category eligibility
If you're currently enrolled in a degree program outside the U.S., the J-1 visa Intern category applies. If you've graduated within the past 12 months or have relevant work experience, you qualify for the Trainee category, which allows up to 18 months of authorized stay.
Search Migrate Mate for J-1-aligned DevRel roles
Use Migrate Mate to filter for Developer Relations positions at U.S. companies that have hosted international exchange visitors. Targeting employers with prior J-1 experience shortens onboarding time and reduces friction when your designated sponsor contacts their HR team.
Verify your role qualifies under the right occupational group
USCIS and designated sponsors classify DevRel under technology or communications occupational groups on the DS-2019 training plan. Cross-reference your specific duties against O*NET profiles to confirm alignment before your sponsor finalizes the program category.
Confirm your host employer will sign the training plan
The host company must co-sign the formal training plan and designate a supervisor before your sponsor can issue the DS-2019. Raise this requirement in your first HR conversation so a last-minute refusal doesn't delay your program start date.
Check whether your home country triggers the two-year rule
Some nationals are subject to the J-1 two-year home residency requirement based on their country's skills list or government funding. Confirm your status with your designated sponsor early, as this requirement affects whether you can change to H-1B visa or green card status later.
Developer Relations J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category fits a Developer Relations role?
The J-1 Trainee category is the most common fit for post-graduation DevRel professionals, covering structured on-the-job training in technology or communications fields for up to 18 months. If you are currently enrolled in a degree program abroad, the Intern category applies instead and is limited to 12 months. Your designated sponsor confirms the correct category based on your education and work history.
Who actually sponsors the J-1 visa for a DevRel position?
The visa sponsor is not your employer. It is a U.S. Department of State-designated sponsor organization, such as Cultural Vistas, AIPT, or CIEE, that issues your DS-2019 form and monitors program compliance. Your hiring company is the host organization. The host must cooperate with the sponsor by signing the training plan, but the sponsor holds legal responsibility for your exchange visitor status.
How do I find U.S. companies open to hosting a J-1 Developer Relations professional?
Use Migrate Mate to search for Developer Relations roles at U.S. employers that have experience working with international exchange visitors. Targeting companies with prior J-1 hosting experience matters because those teams already understand the DS-2019 co-signing process and the training plan requirements, which reduces the chance of a host declining at the offer stage.
What does the J-1 training plan require for a DevRel role?
The training plan must describe specific learning objectives tied to your DevRel duties, such as developer community engagement, API documentation, conference speaking, or open-source contribution. It must include phase-by-phase milestones, a named supervisor, and signatures from both the host employer and the designated sponsor. Generic job descriptions do not satisfy the plan requirements.
Can the two-year home residency requirement affect my DevRel J-1 program?
Yes. If your home country appears on the DOL Skills List or your program was funded by a government or international organization, you are subject to the two-year home residency requirement under INA Section 212(e). This means you cannot change status to H-1B, L-1 visa, or certain immigrant visas from within the U.S. without first returning home or obtaining a waiver. Confirm your status with your designated sponsor before accepting a host offer.