This is the first contribution from Cameron Cayer (Yamagata-ken, 2023-25). Originally from Rhode Island, then university in Washington, DC, he is currently taking the “long way home” through East, Southeast, and South Asia. Currently reporting from Flores, Indonesia.

Note: Here is a new Google Form for anyone who would like to submit their own response after reading this article, or for anyone who would like to share a reaction to this article.

The year 2025 has been one of major upheaval and change. There have been significant shifts in many US policies, massive government restructuring, and wide-ranging budget cuts budget changes. How have these changes impacted JETs and JET alumni? Earlier this year, JETwit reached out to the JET alumni community to conduct a survey to ask former JETs how, if at all, they have been affected. Nearly 100 JET alumni responded, and below is a summary of themes and some quotes from the responses.

The data undoubtedly reveals that U.S. federal budget cuts and policy shifts have created a climate of widespread anxiety and uncertainty among current and former JET Program participants. While the immediate effects vary, a clear pattern of professional and personal instability has emerged from the community’s responses.

Direct Professional Impact: Layoffs and Lost Opportunities

For many, the policy changes have resulted in direct job losses and a stalled career trajectory.

• Several federal contractors and government employees reported being laid off due to canceled contracts and the defunding of entire departments. One respondent noted, “All of our U.S. government partners have been fired or furloughed.”
• Non-profits and international organizations are also heavily impacted. One individual stated, “My agency has had grants canceled by our funders and our clients have had to cancel contracts with my team because their grants were rescinded.” This has led to staff restructures and layoffs.
• Academia and education have not been spared. Cuts to federal grants (e.g., NIH) have led to hiring freezes, rescinded job offers, and budget cuts. An art teacher expressed concern that their job would be eliminated, as “the arts are always the first to go when there’s a funding shortfall.”
• Opportunities for advanced education and career development have been significantly reduced. Several key international education programs, including Fulbright and the Critical Language Scholarship, have been halted or defunded. One person shared, “I have lost 2 internship opportunities this spring.”

Widespread Personal and Economic Disruption

Beyond professional impacts, survey responses indicated a potentiallyheavy personal toll on the JET community.

• There is a pervasive fear of a looming recession. One former JET who now owns a small business remarked, “The future is quite uncertain and my clientele are generally fearful and often ask if my prices will increase.” 
• Many are reconsidering their plans to return to the U.S. One respondent said, “I’m not going to be able to return to the US this year after all because I simply can’t get a job in the US.” Another person, still on JET, feels “trapped” but also grateful for their stable position in Japan.
• The stress of the political climate is a major concern. Individuals are experiencing increased anxiety. As one person put it, “The rhetoric of the current administration is rotten to the core.”

Impacts on Marginalized Communities

For some, the policy changes and political rhetoric are not just a matter of professional worry but a fundamental concern for their safety and well-being.

• Attacks on DEI initiatives and anti-immigrant rhetoric have created a climate of fear. A transgender person said, “I feel I have an added pressure to stay [in Japan] longer to stay safer and be able to access my hormones”.
• Many feel that their rights and safety are at risk. One respondent, a first-generation immigrant, shared their fear “of going back since I’m not sure what the current administration will do to me as a 1st generation immigrant who came to America as a child.”

Waiting and Seeing

It’s worth noting that some respondents indicated no direct effect as of the time of their response.

A Note of Optimism

Not all views were negative. Some respondents expressed a positive outlook on the policy changes.

• One individual felt that the government was “addressing the most basic, foundational matters relevant to every American” for the first time in their life. This person was happy with the new administration’s focus on reducing “bloated bureaucracy” and addressing the national debt.
• Another respondent expressed relief that there is now a “focus on economic growth again” to ensure job security and a reasonable cost of living.
• An individual who owns a business helping people relocate to Japan has seen a “huge spike in interest” from people looking to “go back to Japan,” which they found satisfying.
• One respondent noted that if the administration follows through on its promise to remove the foreign-earned income tax, it would be “extraordinary and the first time a president has enacted legislation that would immediately benefit my life.” 

For many, the experience of living abroad has even reshaped their perspective on what “home” truly means. As one respondent said, “It’s a country that I no longer recognize, leaving me feeling like an expat with no true ‘home.'” And as mentioned above, others are seriously considering staying in Japan, as they feel unsafe or unsure about returning to the U.S.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this survey! 

Comments or reactions to this article? Want to tell us how you’re doing or how 2025 has affected you? Please feel free to submit your comments through this Google Form. We plan to do a follow up article in the coming months that will include new responses. 

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Resolution Editor/Drafter
Posted by: Legislative Reference Bureau, Illinois General Assembly
Location: Springfield, Illinois, USA (onsite only)
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Laurel Williams (Nagasaki-ken, 2011-2016) for passing along the following job opening.

The Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) is a non-partisan legislative support services agency of the Illinois General Assembly with primary responsibility for providing assistance to General Assembly members in the preparation of bills, amendments, resolutions, and other legislative documents.

Persons who serve in editorial and drafting positions with the Resolution Team of the LRB predominantly focus on the preparation and review of resolutions, which may be congratulatory or memorial in nature or may address specific substantive concerns of General Assembly members. However, an Editor/Drafter also performs other duties, including providing proofreading and writing support for attorney groups as needed.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Educational Outreach and Promotions Specialist
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Torrance, CA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

Are you interested in the educational field? Are you good at building relationships with new customers? As an educator, are you meticulous when choosing what learning tools to use? A Japanese Educational Organization is currently looking for a full time, Educational Outreach & Promotions Specialist to join their Torrance, CA location. (Part time, and contracting options are also available)

**For contracting positions, full remote is possible while attending the necessary locations when needed. This could also be done as a side job*

In this position, you would serve as the public face and key promoter of the online learning tools to the U.S. education community. You will be responsible for representing the company at events, visiting schools, and inspiring teachers and administrators to adopt our solutions. Are you a bilingual JET Alumni who’s looking to transition into something other than teaching, but stay in the education industry? Do you also have some experience in the American Educational System? That’s a big plus!

This could be a great opportunity for you! DOE and skills, the pay range for this position would be between the 62k-83k mark with great benefits.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Coordinator of Member Engagement
Posted by: U.S.-Japan Council
Location: Washington, D.C., USA/Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the U.S.-Japan Council for passing along the following job opening.

About the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC)
Founded by Japanese Americans, the U.S.-Japan Council is the premier organization dedicated to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through people-to-people connections.

From high school classrooms to corporate boardrooms, from college lecture halls to the halls of government, we develop and connect leaders from every sector committed to a strong and enduring global partnership.

Through our transformative leadership initiatives, innovative exchange programs, and impactful in-person and virtual events, we bring together leaders at every level to address key bilateral issues. Our community of members across the United States and Japan is a vibrant and diverse professional and personal network. It fosters deep connections and opportunities to make meaningful contributions.

Position Overview
The Coordinator of Member Engagement will have primary responsibility for the administrative and operational support of activities relating to the engagement of members, including membership and regional activities. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization while engaging with leaders across the United States and Japan.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Inside Sales
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Southlake, TX, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

A Japanese Manufacturing Company is currently looking for a full time, Salesperson to join their Southlake, TX location.

The company is seeking a motivated Sales professional with a strong understanding of radio-controlled products, including cars, buggies, trucks, and boats. The ideal candidate will have sales experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment.

Your essential duties would be as follows:
Essential Duties
• Maintain a deep understanding of our product lines
• Participate in training sessions, meetings, and provide product feedback
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends and developments
• Build strong communication with customers and team members
• Work independently with a results-driven and positive attitude

Please consider the following qualifications:
• Minimum 1 year of sales experience or related role
• Knowledge of radio-controlled cars, buggies, trucks, and boats
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Strong work ethic and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Application Process: To apply, please send your resume to carlos[at]919usa[dot]com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Senior Director, Alumni Relations
Posted by: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Location: Bronx, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine for passing along the following job opening.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Einstein Donor Outreach, Communications, & Alumni Relations (AVP), the Senior Director of Alumni Relations (Senior Director) plays a key role in expanding existing alumni programs and leading the implementation of innovative initiatives that further foster engagement and affinity among the 11,000 Einstein alumni of all programs including MD, MSTP, PhD, and MS. The incumbent also will manage communications with alumni from each of the described programs above.

The Senior Director collaborates strategically with internal partners across the development team including special events, annual giving, external relations, data services/operations, frontline fundraising staff and other campus partners to advance alumni engagement and fundraising goals. Moreover, this role is critical in supporting the College of Medicine’s overall alumni fundraising efforts, and the Senior Director must be comfortable and conversant with standard practices in annual, planned, and major giving.

The incumbent will also work closely with the Alumni Association Board of Governors and its subcommittees to help foster strategic engagement opportunities. The Director will supervise 1.5 alumni relations professionals.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4289705315/

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Assistant Director of Study Abroad
Posted by: SUNY Cortland
Location: Cortland, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Mike Foki (Ibaraki-ken Koga-shi, 2009-2014) for passing along the following job opening.

The State University of New York at Cortland (SUNY Cortland) invites applications for the position of Assistant Director of Study Abroad within the International Programs Office. This role offers the opportunity to join a dedicated and collaborative team of professionals committed to advancing international educational exchange and supporting student success.

SUNY Cortland’s study abroad staff manage a robust portfolio of over 40 programs in 21 countries, serving approximately 300 students annually. The Assistant Director will play a key role in coordinating part of these programs, advising students, and fostering global engagement across the campus community. The position also involves maintaining strong working relationships with SUNY Cortland’s international partners abroad to support the continued success and development of high-quality study abroad experiences.

Any questions about this position please reach out to me directly <michael[dot]foki[at]cortland[dot]edu> ! Best of luck!

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://jobs.cortland.edu/postings/10526

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Japan Bowl Assistant
Posted by: Japan-America Society of Washington D.C.
Location: Washington, D.C., USA; Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Sami Marks (Ishikawa Prefecture, Komatsu City, 2018-2023) for passing along the following job opening.

The Japan-America Society of Washington DC (JASWDC) is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to support the National Japan Bowl, America’s premier Japanese-language competition! As the Japan Bowl Assistant, you’ll help manage a dynamic two-day event celebrating talented high school students and their passion for Japanese language and culture.

Roles and Responsibilities: Work at the direction of the Japan Bowl Team to ensure all aspects of the two-day event are managed. Be familiar with all areas of the event and provide support to the Japan Bowl team and volunteers as
needed.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Multiple Positions
Posted by: Japan Village
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Sierra Block Gorman (Gunma Prefecture, 2021-2024) for passing along the following job openings.

Located in Industry City, Japan Village strives to bring Japanese hospitality and culture to New York. Please also feel free to reach out about volunteer opportunities, including at the Summer Festival on August 23rd.

Descriptions:

1. Barista – Prepare and serve coffee, tea, and specialty drinks (with a focus on matcha), provide excellent customer service, and maintain a clean, organized work area.
2. Restaurant Manager – Oversee daily restaurant operations, manage staff schedules, ensure compliance with health and safety standards, and deliver an exceptional dining experience for guests.
3. Bartender – Craft and serve cocktails and beverages, maintain bar inventory, engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner, and ensure the bar area is clean and organized.
4. Cashier – Handle transactions accurately using the POS system, provide excellent customer service, and assist in keeping the checkout area neat and efficient.

Application Process: Email a cover letter and resume to hr@japanvillage.com.

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Sales/Supply Chain Assistant
Posted by: Nose Kozai Inc.
Location: Osaka, Japan
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Ryan Pledger (Niimi-shi, Okayama, 2015-2019) for passing along the following job opening.

●Description
This role centers on global communication, supply chain coordination, interpretation/translation, and international business development.

• Communicate with overseas clients (mainly Europe and North America) via email and online meetings.
• Create and translate business documents (estimates, contracts, shipping documents)
• Provide interpretation during meetings and support English-language training programs.
• Representing our company at international trade shows

●Industry
Manufacturing (Aerospace, Defense, Industrial Machinery, Automotive, etc.)

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Various Roles
Posted by: Senbird
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Celia Yu for passing along the following job openings.

Job Positions: Customer Experience Associate/Tea Studio Associate, Fulfillment Lead, Fulfillment Associate, Production Lead, Production Associate, Content Marketing Associate

Organization: Senbird

Salary/Hourly Rate: These are all contract roles designed as a launchpad for the right candidate(s) to grow into a long-term, full-time position. We review performance at 6 months to determine fit. The pay ranges from $18-25/hr depending on experience.

Location: In-person in New York City

Application Process: All open roles and job descriptions can be found here: https://senbirdtea.com/a/careers

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Student Engagement Coordinator
Posted by: Temple University, Japan Campus
Location: Tokyo, Japan; Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Temple University, Japan Campus for passing along the following job opening.

Visa Requirement   

Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) is able to sponsor a visa for this position

Salary & Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

Eleven (11) days paid vacation in the first year, increasing to 20 days after 6 years of employment, plus 5 paid “personal and sick days” each year. In addition, approximately two weeks company-wide break over Christmas/New Year. Japanese social insurance and pension, commuting/telework allowance, a welfare-discount program membership, retirement payment system, and tuition benefits for Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) programs.

Overview of position

The student engagement coordinator organizes cultural workshops, day outings, and overnight trips to cultivate social relations among our diverse student population and supports an active campus life by working with student organizations. The engagement coordinator also supports and coordinates different initiatives within Student Engagement and collaborates with other departments to promote campus-wide activities and events via social media. In addition, as a team member of OSSE, the engagement coordinator will also be asked to assist with the new student welcome week, office-sponsored events, and walk-in inquiries.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Business News Researcher / Reporter
Posted by: The Yomiuri Shimbun
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Alex Carlson (Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, 2013-2017) for passing along the following job opening.

Main duties involve assisting the Yomiuri Shimbun’s New York-based Japanese business correspondent by covering events, conferences, company earnings calls, financial markets; tracking relevant stories, arranging and conducting interviews, doing research, and coming up with story ideas. One area of special focus is big tech (Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple) and issues connected to artificial intelligence.

In addition to reporting on business and covering financial markets, you may at times have to cover other areas (including national politics, sports, etc.). Some transcription / synopsizing of press conferences and earnings calls is also required. Since the articles are written in Japanese, there are no byline opportunities for this position.

Application Process: Email cover letter and resume to: yomiuri2025job@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Sales Representative for a Japanese Manufacturing Company
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Dublin, OH, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

A Japanese Manufacturing company is currently looking for a full time Sales Representative to join their Dublin, OH location.

This position is ideal for candidates who are eager to grow in a technical sales environment. You will support experienced sales staff in promoting automatic control products to customers across North and South America.

With a flexible work style, supportive team culture, and structured training, this role offers a great opportunity to build a strong foundation in manufacturer sales within a global Japanese company.

DOE and skills, the pay range for this position will be between 50k-55k. Candidates with previous sales experience are of course welcomed, but even candidates without prior sales experience, but willing to learn are encouraged to apply.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Volunteer English Language Teacher
Posted by: Get Universal Co. Ltd. on Peace Boat
Location: Tokyo/Yokohama, Japan; Around the World
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Get Universal Co. Ltd. for passing along the following job opening.

Description

• Creating and delivering a student-negotiated curriculum of task-based English and/or
• Spanish lessons for both private and group students.
• Organising and participating in a variety of student programmes such as informal
• English/Spanish-language conversation events, language study sessions, etc.
• Collaborating to create and host a series of extra-curricular events for GET students,
• including but not limited to student orientation sessions, a speech festival, graduation
• ceremony, student parties, etc.
• Participating in onboard events such as departure ceremonies, welcome ceremonies,
• international festivals, themed performances, etc.
• Assisting in events both on board and in port in support of Peace Boat’s cooperative
• projects and advocacy activities.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://peaceboat.org/english/volunteer/GET-volunteer