How to Find Remote Jobs in North America (USA & Canada)
Finding a remote job in North America can feel overwhelming, especially with thousands of listings across the US and Canada. Whether you're looking for your first remote role or aiming to transition into a higher-paying position, knowing where to search and how to stand out is what actually makes the difference.
In this guide, you'll learn how to find legitimate remote jobs in North America, the best platforms to use, and practical strategies to increase your chances of getting hired.
Where to Find Remote Jobs in North America
Job Boards
Start with platforms that consistently list remote-friendly roles:
- LinkedIn — best for networking + job discovery (LinkedIn Jobs)
- Indeed — large volume of listings (Indeed)
- TopRemoteJobs — fully remote-focused in North America (browse jobs)
- Remote OK — great for tech and startup roles (Remote OK)
Tip: Apply within the first 24–48 hours—early applicants get significantly more responses.
Company Career Pages
Many remote jobs never reach job boards. Focus on:
- Remote-first companies
- SaaS startups
- Companies hiring across North America
Create a shortlist of 20–30 companies and check their careers pages weekly.
Networking (Underrated but Powerful)
A large percentage of remote jobs are filled through referrals.
- Reach out to people in your target role
- Engage with hiring managers on LinkedIn
- Join remote work communities
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Remote Job
- 1
Define your target role
Be specific (e.g., "remote content marketer" instead of just "marketing job").
- 2
Optimize your CV for remote roles
Highlight async communication, self-management, and results.
- 3
Build proof of work
Portfolio, case studies, or even personal projects.
- 4
Apply strategically
Focus on quality over quantity (10–20 strong applications/week).
- 5
Prepare for remote interviews
Expect questions about communication, time management, and autonomy.
- 6
Follow up
A simple follow-up message can double your response rate.
Salary Expectations in North America
| Role | Entry-Level | Mid-Level | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marketing | $45,000 | $70,000 | $110,000+ |
| Developer | $65,000 | $100,000 | $150,000+ |
| Customer Support | $40,000 | $55,000 | $75,000 |
- US salaries are typically higher than Canada
- Some companies adjust pay based on location
- Remote-first startups often offer competitive global salaries
Location & Legal Considerations
Before applying, understand:
- Some roles are USA-only or Canada-only
- Others are open to all North America
- Many companies hire internationally as contractors
Key things to check:
- Time zone requirements
- Employment type (full-time vs contract)
- Tax implications if working cross-border
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with a generic CV
- Ignoring location restrictions
- Applying only on one platform
- Falling for remote job scams
- Not showcasing results or impact
Pro Tips to Stand Out
- Show experience with remote tools (Slack, Notion, Zoom)
- Include measurable results (e.g., "grew traffic by 120%")
- Demonstrate async communication skills
- Apply early and consistently
- Personalize your application (this alone sets you apart)
Start Applying
Finding the right remote job in North America doesn't have to mean scrolling through thousands of irrelevant listings. The key is focusing on high-quality opportunities that actually match your skills and goals.
Start exploring opportunities on TopRemoteJobs and apply with confidence.
Looking Outside North America?
If you're open to global opportunities, you can also explore remote roles in Europe, where many companies hire internationally.
Ready to Find Your Next Remote Role?
Browse thousands of curated remote jobs from top companies hiring in North America.
Browse Remote Jobs