Employment Information in California

Finding a job is a key priority for many immigrants moving to California. The state’s diverse economy offers a wide range of employment opportunities, but understanding the legal requirements, workplace rights, and job search process is crucial. This section provides detailed information on how immigrants can legally work, find jobs, and protect their rights in the workplace.

Legal Work Authorization

In order to work legally in California, immigrants need to have proper work authorization. The type of authorization required depends on an individual’s immigration status.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or work permit, allows immigrants to work legally in the U.S.

Who Needs an EAD?

Immigrants who don’t have an employment-based visa but are authorized to work, such as:

  1. Asylum seekers and refugees

  2. DACA recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

  3. TPS holders (Temporary Protected Status)

  4. Certain visa holders (such as spouses of H-1B workers on H-4 visas)

How to Apply for an EAD

  1. complete Form I-765 (application for employment authorization) and submit it to USCIS

  2. Provide supporting documents, such as proof of your immigration status

  3. Pay the required fee (currently $410, though fee waivers are available for low-income applicants).

  4. Once approved, you’ll receive a physical EAD card, which serves as proof of your work authorization

Work Eligible Visa Categories

Certain visas directly grant employment rights. These include:

  • H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations): For professionals with specialized skills (e.g., IT, engineering).

  • L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transferee): For employees transferred to a U.S. office of their company

  • O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals with exceptional talent in fields like arts, science, or business

  • F-1 Visa (student Visa with OPT/CPT): allows students to work temporarily under optional practical training (OPT) or curricular practical training (CPT).

Easy Jobs to Start Off With in California

When immigrants first arrive in California, they may need to find jobs that don’t require advanced language skills, formal education, or prior U.S. work experience. These jobs can help newcomers earn an income while adjusting to life in the U.S.

Hospitality Jobs

  • Housekeepers

  • Hotel Staff

  • Dishwashers

  • Servers

  • Front Desk Clerks

Why?

Many hospitality jobs offer flexible hours and on-the-job training. California’s tourism industry is large, especially in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco

Agricultural Jobs

  • Farmworkers

  • Fruit pickers

  • Packers

Why?

California’s Central Valley has a high demand for agricultural labor. Seasonal jobs are often available without requiring prior experience

Cleaning and Maintenance Jobs

  • Janitors

  • Cleaners

  • Maintenance staff

Why?

Many cleaning jobs don’t require fluency in English. These positions are often available through cleaning companies.

Retail Jobs

  • Cashiers

  • Stock Clerks

  • Sale Associates

Why?

Retail jobs can help improve English skills through interaction with customers. Large chains like Walmart, Target, and a local grocery stores frequently hire new workers

Construction Jobs

  • General laborers

  • Painters

  • Carpenters’ assistants

Why?

no formal education is required for entry-level roles. Construction pays relatively well, and demand is high due to ongoing development in California

Delivery and Ride-Sharing

  • Package delivery drivers

  • Food delivery (DoorDash, Uber Eats)

  • Uber/Lyft

Why?

Flexible schedules and relatively easy entry requirements (driver’s license, car, and insurance). No prior experience is needed, but good navigation skills are helpful.

Tips for Getting Started

Learn Basic English Phrases:

Even minimal English skills can help improve job prospects and make communication easier

Look for Job Placement Assistance

Many community organizations and non-profits offer free job placement services and training for immigrants

Job Placement Assistance

When visiting job centers or assistance programs, bring key documents like your ID, Social Security Number (or ITIN), proof of work authorization, and your resume. It may take time to find the right job, so keep applying and attending workshops or training programs to improve your skills. Many organizations offer services in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog, to better assist non-English Speakers

California Employment Development Department (EDD)

The EDD is a state-run agency that provides various employment services for job seekers.

Services Offered:

  • Job listings and referrals.

  • Career counseling and workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and job searching.

  • Unemployment benefits for eligible workers who lose their jobs.

  • CalJOBS: An online job portal where job seekers can search for opportunities and post their resumes.

How to Access:

  • Visit a local America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), which partners with EDD to provide free services.

  • Use the CalJOBS website to create a profile and start searching for jobs.

Upwardly Global (UpGlo)

Upwardly Global is a non-profit organization that helps skilled immigrants, refugees, and asylees restart their professional careers in the U.S.

Services Offered:

  • Job placement assistance for professionals in fields such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance.

  • Resume and LinkedIn profile reviews.

  • Networking events and mentorship programs.

  • Access to an online job board with employers who value immigrant talent.

How to Access:

  • Sign up for free on their website and complete their online training program.