Application Process for J-1 Visa

[JosephSinyor]

I am currently a student in London who has decided to take on a placement year in the US (with a British citizenship). I have been advised to apply for a J-1 visa and my prospective employer has agreed to sponsor me for my year. I have already completed a DS-160 form but I am now confused as to what my next step is. I would prefer to do most of the application process myself as I do not wish to bother my prospective employer but as I said I have hit a dead end.
Can I continue the process without involving my employer in the US or does he have to first contact the embassy in order to start the process?

Thanks in advance