Yes. A person on a J-2 status may work in the US but s/he must receive an Employment Authorization from the USCIS. If your spouse finds a job, s/he may contact us in order to get assistance in applying for an Employment Authorization. S/he may also be eligible to apply for a work permit or working visa using another category such as J-1, B1-B2, H, L, E-1, E-2, R-1 OR Green Card or any other category, which may allow him/her to work for that employer.