Job Discussion Forums

[MBee]

Hi! I have a TEFL Cert., Masters degree in Geography, 4 years college teaching experience and 1 year (pre-cert) TEFLing in Indonesia as a Fulbright ETA.

I'd like to come to Japan around the end of March and look for a full time job. I'm interested in Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto and am wondering:

A) Are any of those cities better/best for showing up and finding a full time job?
B)What kind of pay should I expect with my background/education?
C) What's the best way to go about looking for work once I arrive? I don't speak Japanese but I could learn some basics before arriving if necessary.
D) Any suggestions on the best job/pay I could shoot for, given my experience/quals?

Thank you so much, I know it's a lot of questions and I appreciate you taking the time. Take care and have a great evening, wherever you are in the world.

[Glenski]

College teaching what, if I may ask?

If you haven't been made aware, most jobs start in April, so end of March is iffy to poor timing.

Basic research will tell you the salary to expect: 220,000-250,000 pretax per month.

Any of those cities is good. Do not be picky, although Kyoto has fewer opportunities.

Contact potential employers before you arrive, so they know when you are coming.

[thomthom]

I think it's just an issue of time and money, especially money. You'll need enough cash to last potentially two or three months before you receive your first pay check. $5000 is the usual recommendation. And you'd need to consider reserving enough money to make it back home, if the gamble doesn't pay off.

[MBee]

Thanks alot for the info. I've taught Geography at several colleges.

Is there perhaps a time period during fall when hiring picks up again?

[Glenski]