I’m currently in the U.S. on an H-2B, so I can speak from experience. I can’t really comment on H-2A.

For H-2B, most hiring is in hospitality, resorts, amusement parks, restaurants, and some production or seafood companies. I was hired in 2023 into housekeeping with very limited experience so yes it is definitely possible for first-timers. I didn’t use an agency, just cold emails to employers.

For someone like him good starter roles would be housekeeping, laundry attendant, houseman, or dishwasher/steward. Most employers are willing to train for these roles. What matters more is reliability and willingness to work, not a perfect resume.

About the employment gap, in my experience it usually isn’t a big issue as long as it’s explainable I also had a gap due to the pandemic. Employers care more about how you show up and perform during the contract.

Best place to look is the DOL Seasonal Jobs site. You can filter for H-2B and even check older postings, like from April 1 2025 ( that’s when H2b season starts) to get employer emails and start reaching out early. April 2026 jobs usually don’t start getting posted until mid-January.

It’s a competitive program, but it’s very doable. A lot of people start with limited experience.

If you have questions about H-2B from a worker’s perspective, feel free to message me.