If you have just finished a degree in US then you can apply for a 1-yr OPT (Optional Practical Training) which needs no special permit or a job offer and is an option for F-1 student visa holders.
If not then you have to secure a job offer and the company should agree to apply for an H1-B work visa on your behalf. Many job opportunities are available in major cities; however, the hard part is getting a company to agree to sponsor your work visa which should be easier if you have long experience and if it's a big company.

thanks for your information!
I have a Dutch master degree in architecture and I have worked as an architect for 3 years, so it won't be that easy i suppose.
Do you think it will be easier if I pay for the visa application myself?

i don't think san diego is in the eu as of yet...