Inanis_Vault/10-Input/Okinawa English Teaching Job Guide.md

---
type: Page
title: Getting a Job
description: null
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createdAt: '2025-07-15T01:17:27.772Z'
creationDate: 2025-07-15 10:17
modificationDate: 2025-07-21 10:33
tags: []
coverImage: null
---

## The Process of Getting an English Teaching Job in Japan (Okinawa Specifics)

The general process typically involves these steps:

1. **Research & Identify School Types:** Understand the different types of English teaching jobs available.

2. **Prepare Your Application Documents:** Tailor your resume/CV and cover letter.

3. **Job Search & Application:** Actively look for openings and apply.

4. **Interviews:** Prepare for online or in-person interviews.

5. **Visa Sponsorship & Paperwork:** Secure your visa.

6. **Relocation & Arrival:** Plan your move.

### 1. Research & Identify School Types in Okinawa

Okinawa, like the rest of Japan, has several types of institutions that hire English teachers:

- **Eikaiwa (English Conversation Schools):** These are private language schools.

    - **Pros:** Often have continuous hiring, provide structured lessons, sometimes offer training. Many hire from overseas.

    - **Cons:** Can have long or irregular hours, classes might be large, focus is on conversation rather than deeper teaching. Examples popular in Japan include ECC, AEON, Gaba. Smaller, local Eikaiwa are also abundant in Okinawa.

- **JET Programme (Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme):** Government-sponsored program for Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in public schools.

    - **Pros:** Excellent pay and benefits, cultural exchange focus, strong support system, unique experience.

    - **Cons:** Highly competitive, application window is usually in **September-November for the following July/August**. Placement is nationwide, so while you can request Okinawa, it's not guaranteed.

- **Dispatch Companies:** These companies hire ALTs and dispatch them to public elementary, junior high, and high schools.

    - **Pros:** Less competitive than JET, relatively stable hours (school day), often the easiest entry into public schools.

    - **Cons:** Lower pay than JET, fewer benefits, less job security (contract renewed yearly), sometimes limited involvement in curriculum. Major dispatch companies operating in Okinawa include Interac, Altia Central, Borderlink.

- **Private Schools (Kindergarten, Elementary, Junior High, High School):** Direct hire by private institutions.

    - **Pros:** Good pay and benefits, more teaching autonomy, often more professional teaching environments.

    - **Cons:** Highly competitive, require strong qualifications (your teaching degree is a big plus here!), often prefer teachers already in Japan with experience.

- **Universities/Colleges:**

    - **Pros:** Excellent pay, benefits, research opportunities, professional environment, lighter teaching load.

    - **Cons:** Highly competitive, usually require an MA/PhD, significant teaching experience, and publications. Your Bachelor's in Neuroscience could be an asset if combined with further study in a related field.

**For Okinawa specifically:** The demand for Eikaiwa and dispatch ALTs is consistent. There are also many local Okinawan private schools. Due to the significant U.S. military presence, there are also opportunities at international schools (e.g., Okinawa Christian School International, Kubasaki High School, Kadena High School etc.) on the bases, though these often require U.S. teaching licenses and specific experience. However, your teaching degree is still a major asset for these.

### 2. Prepare Your Application Documents

- **Resume/CV:**

    - **Format:** Typically 1-2 pages, clear, concise. Japanese companies appreciate neatness and professionalism.

    - **Content:** Highlight your Bachelor's in Teaching (mention your practicum/student teaching if applicable), your Neuroscience degree (showcases academic rigor), and your TESOL certification. Emphasize any experience working with children or in educational settings, even if not formal teaching.

    - **Photo:** A professional passport-style photo is often expected on Japanese resumes.

- **Cover Letter:** Tailor each letter to the specific school/company. Express your enthusiasm for teaching English in Japan, specifically Okinawa, and how your skills and qualifications (especially your teaching degree) make you a strong candidate.

- **Letters of Recommendation:** Have 2-3 professional references ready.

- **Transcripts/Certificates:** Have digital and physical copies of your degrees and TESOL ready.

### 3. Best Ways to Find a Job in Okinawa

Given your qualifications, here are the most effective strategies:

- **Online Job Boards (Most Common & Effective):**

    - **GaijinPot Jobs:** One of the most popular sites for foreigners seeking jobs in Japan. Many Eikaiwa and dispatch companies post here. You can filter by location (Okinawa).

    - **Daijob.com:** More professional jobs, but worth checking for private school or higher-level Eikaiwa roles.

    - **Jobs in Japan:** Similar to GaijinPot.

    - **ELT News:** A good resource for more academic/private school postings, though less frequent for entry-level.

    - **Indeed Japan:** Growing in popularity for English teaching jobs.

    - **Specific Company Websites:** Directly check the career pages of major Eikaiwa (AEON, ECC, Gaba, Berlitz) and dispatch companies (Interac, Altia Central, Borderlink) as they often recruit year-round.

- **JET Programme:** If you're looking for a public school setting and are flexible with exact location within Japan (with a strong preference for Okinawa), this is a fantastic option. **Be aware of the application timeline (typically Fall for summer departure).**

- **Direct Approach (for Private Schools/Smaller Eikaiwa):**

    - Search online for "private schools Okinawa" or "Eikaiwa Okinawa."

    - Many smaller, local schools might not advertise on big job boards but will have websites. You can often send a direct inquiry with your resume and cover letter. Your teaching degree will make you stand out here.

- **Networking:** If you know anyone already in Okinawa, leverage their network. Online communities (e.g., Facebook groups for "English Teachers in Okinawa" or "Expats in Okinawa") can also be valuable for tips and leads.

- **Recruitment Agencies:** Some agencies specialize in placing English teachers in Japan. Do your research to ensure they are reputable.

### 4. Interviews

- Most initial interviews will be conducted online (Skype, Zoom).

- Be prepared to discuss your teaching philosophy, classroom management, and why you want to live and work in Okinawa.

- Research the company/school thoroughly.

- Have questions ready for them.

- Demonstrate enthusiasm and cultural awareness.

### 5. Visa Sponsorship & Paperwork

- **Crucial Point:** You **cannot** just show up in Japan and look for work. You need a valid work visa **before** you arrive.

- **Sponsorship:** The vast majority of legitimate English teaching jobs will offer visa sponsorship. This means the school/company handles the bulk of the paperwork with Japanese immigration on your behalf.

- **Required Documents:** You'll typically need your original degree, TESOL certificate, official transcripts, passport, and various forms provided by the company. Some might require a criminal background check.

- **Processing Time:** Visa processing can take several weeks to a few months.

### 6. Relocation & Arrival

- **Accommodation:** Some Eikaiwa provide initial accommodation or help finding it. Dispatch companies often assist. Research housing costs in Okinawa; they can vary.

- **Cost of Living:** Okinawa generally has a lower cost of living than major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, but it's still Japan, so plan your budget carefully.

- **Flights:** Book your flight after your visa is confirmed.

- **Initial Expenses:** Have funds for initial living expenses, rent deposits, utilities, and setting up your new life.

## Your Strengths and How to Leverage Them

- **Bachelor's in Teaching:** This is a huge asset! It sets you apart from many candidates who only have a bachelor's in another field and a TESOL. Highlight your pedagogical knowledge, classroom management skills, and experience with curriculum development. This makes you particularly attractive to private schools and can give you an edge with dispatch companies and even JET.

- **Neuroscience Degree:** This showcases your academic prowess, analytical skills, and potentially an interest in how people learn. While not directly teaching-related, it speaks to your intellectual capabilities. You could briefly mention an interest in educational psychology stemming from this background, if relevant to a specific role.

- **TESOL Certification:** This is the standard entry requirement for most English teaching jobs in Japan. It demonstrates you've had training specifically for teaching English as a second language.

**Best Way to Find a Job with Your Profile:**

1. **Prioritize the JET Programme Application (if timing allows):** Given your teaching degree, you're a very strong candidate for JET. If the application window is open (usually September-November), definitely apply. The benefits and experience are unparalleled.

2. **Actively Apply to Dispatch Companies (Interac, Altia Central, Borderlink):** Your teaching degree will make you a prime candidate for ALTs. These companies are usually hiring year-round.

3. **Search GaijinPot and Daijob.com for Eikaiwa and Private School Roles:** Filter heavily for Okinawa. Your teaching degree might open doors at more reputable Eikaiwa or direct-hire private schools that want teachers with formal training.

4. **Explore International Schools (if U.S. licensed or eligible):** While competitive, your teaching degree makes you a stronger candidate for these if you can meet other requirements.

Start your job search well in advance, as the process for Japan (especially visa sponsorship) takes time. Good luck! Okinawa is a beautiful place to live and teach.



[https://perfectchaosrei.livejournal.com/234841.html](https://perfectchaosrei.livejournal.com/234841.html)

[https://www.aeonet.com/recruiting-locations](https://www.aeonet.com/recruiting-locations)



```markdown
おはようございます！

僕の名前はSpencer Grimes、沖縄に十月に移住するつもりです。教師の仕事を探しています。ぼくは中等教育の学士号、TESOL教員資格を持ち、九千時間以上の教育経験を持っています。僕の日本語はまあまあ、でも言語を学ぶのが好きです。中国語も話します。僕は母国語である英語でも書き、より詳しい内容を述べます。

Greetings!
As stated above, my name is Spencer Grimes, and I am planning to move to Okinawa in October on a tourist visa, and am looking for a teaching position. I am American, and currently live in the United States. I already have plans to be in Okinawa from October to December (On the Tourist Visa), but am looking to make it a permanent move. As I mentioned above, I have a Bachelors Degree in Secondary Education, minoring in Neuroscience, A TESOL Certificate accompanied with a 120 Hour course on various teaching methods specifically on teaching language, and over 9000 hours of teaching experience as a volunteer teacher since 2013.

I am requesting Visa Sponsorship, but am also perfectly happy with a part time or full time position, I think part time would actually be a bit better, if that's possible. I am planning on living around 沖縄市 or 宜野湾市, but that's not set in stone. If I am somebody you might be interested in hiring, I would be more then happy to meet with you, or provide more information, any forms or degrees, or anything else I can help with.

お時間をいただきありがとうございました!
```



mimichanclub@gmail.com - 

info@gvokinawa.com - 

job.info@redroof.jp - Failed to Send

info@studyandinternjapan.com - Unable to Sponsor Visas

​contact@skolaworld.com - 

max21@m1.cosmos.ne.jp - Failed to Send



- From Robbie:

    Sure thing, I’ll call you later to brainstorm something.

    I do know one thing that I can help you save some time. Mostly people get hired for teaching jobs in January to prep for the April start of school year.

    A brother just left. He tried his best to find a job and couldn’t.

    He did the same as you. Got the qualifications. Still nothing for him.

    There’s a big difference though. He is married, you guys are single. Easier on the visa side.

    But I would also consider getting an American remote work job and applying for the Japanese study visa. You can have it for up to 2/3 years I think.

    Yes, but if the business thinks is too much of a hassle to get yours and your wife’s visa. They prefer not to even start the process.

    I’d ask ChatGPT about that. I know a 100% American lady that came with a student visa, started a business, now she has business visa.

    Just know that regarding work, is way better to find something there and come with student visa.

    You need to understand one point. Getting the visa is a big hassle for a company, because they’re responsible for you. If you mess up, they’ll have a problem.

    Also there’s already hundreds of qualified people living here. (By qualified I mean they’re native English speakers)

    Waaaaaaay better trying to find something in IT that your skills will make a way bigger difference.

    There are brothers that although they don’t have any Japanese blood in them, they’re single yet they live in Japan. Got the visa from work.

    One works at traders office.

    Other works for Subaru on the art concept.

    Other works for an IT firm.

    Those are the ones I know.

    Hum…it will be way easier to find something when you’re here too.

    I personally would through the Japanese study visa. You need Japanese to enter the job market anyway.

    If you can sustain yourself while learning Japanese that would be good.

    I’m messaging because this is something you can comeback to and read again. This might be Jehovah talking to you, not me.

    I mean,  is better than getting your heart broken. It was rough seeing the brother here looking for work for 3 months straight and not find anything



Daily Text July 16th - 

> 1 Cor 3:20 - And again: “Jehovah knows that the reasonings of the wise men are futile."

> Psalms 94:11 - Jehovah knows the thoughts of men,
 That they are but a mere breath.+

We got ahead of ourselves, and had to be reminded to sit down, shut up, and see the salvation of Jehovah. Our prayers today were not of asking to go to Okinawa. They were just asking for Reina, in whatever form that happens. Jehovah knows what is best for us, and for her, and what needs to happen. Personally, I do believe that Reina and I ending up together would be best for both of us. Not because I am confident in myself, but because I know, and have proven the lengths I am wiling to go for her, and an undying loyal love. Jehovah hears our prayers, and can read our hearts. We trust him to take care of us both, in the best way possible.



Jehovah knows best. 

Douglas Westmore - Teacher at Orchard Road English. For some reason, likes me and wants to help me get a job. Trust this man with our lives, for he has been sent by Jehovah. 

Also, talked to Robbie. Apparently, getting to Okinawa is not only very, very difficult, but also a dream of many, and has driven some other witnesses to desperation. Make no mistake though. Okinawa is not our goal, it is simply a stepping stone. Our goal is Reina. I don't know why Jehovah decided to help us, out of everyone else. If Jehovah has decided to help us, then we will very gratefully accept his help, and will appreciate him for it, will thank him for it, give him our undying loyalty, and love him for it. These are promises. Never forget these.  



List of Okinwa Work Life Requests:

Must Haves:

- No Army Contracts 

    I know this one's a bit weird, but I'll explain. As I mentioned before, we are bible teachers and our primary reason for coming to Okinawa in the first place would be to further that work. The bible is also rather pointed in the whole "Love your Neighbor" and "Do not kill" departments, and as such, we would be unable to take part in anything that would contribute to that. What I mean by all of this, is anything that would require us to sign up for and be considered part of the military, from our understanding of bible principles and our consciences, we decided that we would not be able to do. Now, there are also things like going on base to help with kids there, and stuff like that. These are very different then actually being part of the military, and I'd be far more open to these kind of things, but probably best to consider case by case basis. It's more about not directly supporting any military actions, or giving the appearance that I am, something like that. Sorry for the confusing explanation.

- Wednesday Nights and Weekends off 

    I've got existing meetings on Wednesday nights and the weekends that I want to make sure I'm there for

Nice to Haves:

- Part time, maybe?

    I know this one is a bit of a stretch, but may as well mention it. My goal in Okinawa is not to make money. I'll also probably keep a few web development contracts if I can. If I can make enough to live a simple life, I'm perfectly content with that, and that seems to be much easier to do in Japan, then it is in America. All that being said, I know there has to be a certain amount of money you have to make in order to even be considered for a VISA application, I think its something around 180k-200k円, and we'd likely be helping with children, not rocket scientists (although that'd be fun to), so not being full time is pretty much unavoidable. But, if by some chance we're able to hit that amount only working a few days a week, I'd be very grateful. 

- Fridays Off

    Kind of pigging backing off the last few, my goal is to continue to be able to teach the bible to those who are interested in learning, and the main days for that in Okinawa are Friday-Sunday, so if I'm able to have those off, that'd be great. But, I know there's also certain paygrades to reach and all that, which is why this is in the "Nice to Haves" section.

- Location

    I think where we'd like to end up living in pretty central in the island, around Ginowan or Okinawa City. A lot of the positions we were seeing open were in some of those areas, but also a lot in Naha. Closer to home would be better, because less driving is always better then more driving, but this is pretty low on the "nice to haves". If we have to drive an hour to work every day, then so be it.