In 1933, Jim pooled the money he had saved and some jackpot winnings, and bought his first accordion.  He taught himself to play by ear and with help from friends, and soon became known for his talent.  He played at social events, boarding houses, pool halls, and a variety of other places.  In 1942, Jim joined the US Navy, where he was sent to the South Pacific to serve on and protect merchant ships.  Jim retired from the Navy in 1946, and returned to Nampa, where he worked for the Union Pacific Railroad until his retirement in 1981.  He married Isabel Larrondo in 1953 and raised two children.

Throughout his youth, military, and professional life, Jim continued to play the music he loved.  He started the Jim Jausoro Band with some friends in 1957, building lifelong friendships with the other musicians.  In Boise, he is best known for his decades of musical accompaniment and dedication to the Oinkari Basque Dancers.