The 2026 FIFA World Cup is about to transform the New York and New Jersey region into a buzzing center of international soccer excitement—and with it comes a wave of job opportunities for locals looking to earn some extra cash.

A Golden Opportunity for Short-Term Workers

As thousands of fans from around the globe make their way to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, businesses in the area are scrambling to fill positions. The best part? Most of these jobs are temporary, meaning you can pocket some solid earnings without signing up for a long-term commitment.

How much can you make? Depending on the role and employer, hourly wages range from $18 to $25 per hour. Entry-level positions in food service start at the lower end, while security guards, bilingual guest assistants, and supervisory roles can hit that $25 mark.

For workers who can pick up multiple shifts each week during peak tournament days, the paycheck can add up fast—a welcome boost for families juggling rent, groceries, and summer expenses.

What Kinds of Jobs Are Available?

The hiring surge spans several industries:

• Event operations and stadium support
• Food service and catering
• Security and crowd management
• Guest services (especially bilingual roles)
• Hospitality (hotels, restaurants, bars)
• Transportation and cleaning services

Bilingual? You're in demand. With fans traveling from every corner of the world, employers are actively seeking workers who can communicate in multiple languages to help visitors navigate everything from seating to local restaurants.

Who Can Apply?

Most positions require applicants to:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Speak English (additional languages are a plus)
• Be available for flexible schedules, including nights and weekends
• Be comfortable standing for extended periods

Previous experience in customer service, hospitality, food handling, or working in fast-paced environments will give you an edge—but many entry-level roles are open to beginners willing to work hard.

Where to Find These Jobs

Here's where to start your search:

• MetLife Stadium's careers page – The stadium is actively hiring part-time event staff
• FIFA tournament hiring platforms – Look for positions listed under the New York/New Jersey region
• Job search websites – Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and TeamWorkOnline
• Local staffing agencies – Many are partnering with event contractors
• Hotel and restaurant career pages – Hospitality businesses are gearing up for the tourist influx

Tips to Stand Out

• Apply now. Employers want their teams ready before the busiest match days hit.
• Keep your resume short and focused. Highlight any experience with crowds, cash handling, food service, cleaning, driving, or high-pressure environments.
• Check certification requirements. If you're eyeing kitchen or food service work, you may need a food handler's certificate.
• Emphasize your availability. Match days, late nights, and weekends are when help is needed most—flexibility is your biggest selling point.

The World Cup only comes around once every four years, and this time it's landing right in your backyard.

Whether you're a student looking for summer income, a parent needing extra cash, or just someone who wants to be part of the action, now's the time to get your application in.

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