Global talent
J-1, H-2B or local staffing: which fits?
Each option fits a different need. Here is how local associates, J-1 students and H-2B workers compare, and when each one makes sense.
When each option makes sense
Local associates
Year-round and part-time needs, quick starts and roles of every kind. The base of most crews.
J-1 Summer Work Travel
University students for customer-facing summer roles, selected by a sponsor, planned months ahead.
J-1 winter
Students on their own summer break during our winter season, for the same kinds of eligible roles.
H-2B seasonal
Temporary workers for seasonal non-farm jobs, through an employer petition that needs early planning.
Every program role is checked against its rules before anything is agreed. Alto never guarantees visas or a number of participants.
How most employers combine them
Most seasonal businesses keep a core of local associates and returning workers, then add program workers for the busiest weeks. The full comparison sets the options side by side: who can work, typical seasons and how far ahead each one needs planning.
Side by side
| Local associates | J-1 Summer Work Travel | J-1 winter | H-2B seasonal | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who works | Local workers, all year | University students on their break | Southern Hemisphere university students | Seasonal workers from eligible countries |
| Typical season | All year | May to September | December to March | Spring to fall |
| How long | As long as you need | Up to four months | Up to four months | The approved petition period |
| Who selects | You and Alto | The sponsor | The sponsor | You, under the approved petition |
| Plan ahead | Days to weeks | Months | Months | Months, before filing windows |
How it works
Step 1: Tell us your season
Which weeks you run short, and in which roles.
Step 2: We recommend a mix
Local associates, a program or both, with honest lead times.
Step 3: We run it
One team to plan, prepare and support whichever mix you choose.
Common questions
How far ahead should we plan?
Local associates can start quickly. International programs need planning months ahead; ask us early and we will set out the lead times for your season.
Can we mix local and program workers?
Yes. Most seasonal employers do, and one Alto team plans and supports the whole crew.
Keep exploring
Talk to our team
A few details and we will send a quote within one business day. No commitment.
Prefer to talk? Call (850) 805-3774 or email info@altohr.com.
Or pick a time and we call you.
Book a 30-minute callWhat happens next
- 1We reply within one business day
- 2We meet you or walk your site, free
- 3Your team starts ready on day one