The functions of the governor-general include appointing ministers, judges, and ambassadors; giving royal assent to legislation passed by parliament; issuing writs for election.

In general, the governor-general observes the conventions of the Westminster system and responsible government, maintaining political neutrality, and has to always act only on the advice of the prime minister.

The governor-general also has a ceremonial role: hosting events at the official residence—King's House in the capital, Kingston—and bestowing honours to individuals and groups who are contributing to Jamaica and to their communities.

As the sovereign works and resides predominantly outside of Jamaican borders, the governor-general's primary task is to perform the monarch's constitutional duties on his or her behalf.

[5] The constitutional responsibilities of the governor-general also include exercising executive authority, granting the prerogative of mercy, giving royal assent to bills, and appointing members of Service Commissions issuing Proclamations for the proroguing and summoning of Parliament, and declaring States of Emergency.

[9][10] The governor-general's ceremonial duties include opening new sessions of parliament by delivering the Speech from the Throne, welcoming visiting heads of state, and receiving the credentials of foreign diplomats.

[8] The governor-general also confers honours and awards to Jamaicans for notable service to the community, or for acts of bravery in a specially convened ceremony at King's House on National Heroes Day.

[11] The governor-general chairs meetings of the Privy Council which advises him on the exercise of the Royal Prerogative of Mercy and the discipline of the civil service, local government officers, and the police, in cases where appeals are made.

[14][15] The governor-general uses a personal flag, which features a lion passant atop a St. Edward's royal crown with "Jamaica" written on a scroll underneath, all on a blue background.