José Vallarino studied law and librarianship and later taught. He was a librarian, a dramatic arts teacher, and an estate owner. He played basketball and athletics at a high national level as a youth. Vallarino served as President of the Uruguayan Olympic Committee from 1976-87, and Secretary-General of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO) from 1967-75. He was also a president or a high-ranking official for numerous sports federations in Uruguay, including rowing, volleyball, football, swimming, and university sports. Vallarino became an IOC Member in 1976 and remained on the IOC until 1996, after which he was made an Honorary Member. He served on the Cultural Commission from 1980-95.