Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03) presents WIT Life, a periodic series about aspects of Japanese culture such as art, film, food and language. Stacy starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she offers some interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

Recently I had the opportunity to interpret at an artist talk for photographer Aya Fujioka, whose collection Here Goes River is part of the current exhibition Things She Carries at Seizan Gallery. Hiroshima-born Fujioka began taking photos of her hometown after returning in 2013. Thanks to a scholarship from the Agency for Cultural Affairs in Japan, she had spent the previous five years in New York where she created the series Life Studies. Here Goes River depicts everyday life in modern Hiroshima, and one portion of the collection focuses on the apartment she moved back into from its initial empty state to getting filled up over time via being lived in.

Although Fujioka doesn’t deal with the topic of the atomic bomb directly, its legacy can’t help but be reflected in her work. During the talk, one photo she highlighted was of a group of high school students practicing dance choreography in front of the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome. Fujioka shared that she received a lot of bashing on social media when this photo was unveiled. Hiroshima citizens decried her for tarnishing the memory of those who lost their lives there, but she explained that for her as an artist the work would be meaningless without the dome. Always striving to avoid didacticism, Fujioka saw its inclusion as an opportunity for people to reinterpret the image and its symbolism. She also noted that when this photo was part of an exhibition in Tokyo there was no pushback, so she’s wondering how it will be received by New York audiences. She hopes that her work in general will enable viewers to imagine the Hiroshima of today.

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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 International Student Advising & Engagement
Posted by: Bellevue College
Location: Bellevue, WA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Lynn Miyauchi (Fukui-ken, Obama-shi, 1990-1993) for passing along the following job opening.

Description: The Assistant Director of International Student Advising and Engagement (ADISAE) reports to the Director of International Education and supervises full-time International Student Advisors and International Student Engagement Program Manager. This position is responsible for improving international students’ retention by developing and implementing comprehensive academic, immigration advising and culturally responsive support services with goals to increase student completion and satisfaction rates.

The position serves as the Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) and is responsible for ensuring full compliance with all aspects of the F-1 regulations, reporting, and updating all reportable events in a timely manner in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) including I-17, preparing for recertification process to maintain college’s approval status. The ADISAE supports the director in managing department operations, designing, implementing, and evaluating high impact programming and support services for international students.

The ADISAE is expected to serve as additional support to assist students and the general public without appointments in-person during the International Education’s (IE) office hours. The position requires to work occasional evening and weekends to oversee student engagement activities and as directed by the director.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here – https://hcprd.ctclink.us/psc/tam/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_SCHJOB_FL&Action=U&

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: Lead Teacher
Posted by: Brooklyn Robot Foundry-Manhattan East
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Janine Harper (Chiba-ken, 1999-2001) for passing along the following job opening.

Description:
When you hear the word robot, do you smile? Do you get excited when you get to use your hands to build things? Do you find joy in building with kids? Then this is the perfect job for you!

In this role, you will be teaching groups of children basic engineering concepts and guiding them in building their own robots. We will train you in all the unique skills, tools, and concepts needed for the position.

We are especially looking for people who are creative, DIY-lovers, great with kids, and deeply interested in learning more about STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). Our teachers have backgrounds in various disciplines, including visual and performing arts. We need people who can take a hot glue gun to popsicle sticks and cardboard and create something that physically holds up and looks totally awesome – all while having a blast!

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here – https://brooklynrobotfoundry.com/manhattan-east/2023/11/20/were-hiring/

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: Executive Director
Posted by: Japan America Society DFW
Location: Plano, Texas
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Japan America Society DFW for passing along the following job opening.

About the Organization:

Founded in 1970, the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth serves as a catalyst for engaging Japanese and Americans in the business, education, public policy, and arts and culture sectors. The Society’s mission is to further mutual understanding and ongoing engagement between Japanese and Americans through quality programs in arts and culture, education, business, public policy, and international exchange. With a diverse portfolio of offerings and strong community partnerships, the Society positively impacts the North Texas community and fosters friendly relations between cultures.

The membership of the Organization consists of prestigious multinational corporations, professional organizations and service providers, educational institutions, executives, and individuals interested in growing the strong relationship between the USA and Japan.

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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: Two Navigators
Posted by: Toshiba Youth Club Asia (TYCA)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Contract: Full-Time; 1-week

Attached is a job passed along to us.

Since 2014, Toshiba International Foundation and ASJA International have together implemented an international exchange program, “Toshiba Youth Club Asia,” a forum for mutual understanding and exchanges between high school students from ASEAN countries and Japan. Through this program, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders who will take the lead in creating a sustainable society (https://tyca.asia/).

The next program, TYCA Volume 8, will be held from March 23 through 30, 2024 at the Yoyogi Olympics Memorial Youth Center in Tokyo. Toward fruitful implementation of the program, we want to recruit one or two experienced ALT, or ALT alumni, to the program as a “navigator.” The role is
simple but important: support the program organizers in facilitating the program’s overall flow, including several group sessions.

Application Process: For more information, including basic program structure and salary, see the below document. If you are interested or consider application, please feel free to contact tyca@begoodcafe.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: Lecturer in the Japanese Language Program
Posted by: University of Pennsylvania
Location: Philadelphia, PA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thank you to our friends at the American Association of Teachers of Japanese for this Job Posting.

The Department of East Asian Languages and Civilizations at the University of Pennsylvania announces the availability of a position as full-time Lecturer in the Japanese Language Program for the academic year 2024-25. The appointment will be for an initial year with the possibility of annual renewal for up to an additional two years, contingent upon a satisfactory performance review and approval of the Dean. Employee benefits are provided.

Applicants for the position should demonstrate a primary focus on language education, and have received at least a Master’s degree in Education, Japanese Language, Literature, Linguistics, or a related field.  

Native or near-native competency in Japanese language and fluency in English are required. Preference will be given to applicants with significant teaching experience at all levels of Japanese language at post-secondary institutions in the United States. Knowledge of and experience in current trends in second/foreign language teaching methodologies and meaningful application of technologies in language instruction are highly desirable.

Duties include: teaching Japanese language classes (five classes per academic year) at any assigned levels, holding regular office hours, attending weekly meetings of the Japanese Language Program, and working with the Director of the Language Program and East Asia faculty on curriculum development and program articulation.

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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: Online AP Japanese Language Teacher
Posted by: The Compass School
Location: Remote
Contract: Part-Time

Thank you to our friends at the American Association of Teachers of Japanese for this Job Posting.

About the Job

We are looking for a part-time AP Japanese Language and Culture teacher.

Our courses are taught online, the weekly live class time is taught through Zoom and we utilize Canvas as our learning management system.

Our courses follow the AP curriculum from College Board, to view the curriculum please visit: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-japanese-language-and-culture-course-and-exam-description.pdf

The course will be 70 hours from now until mid-spring. The course must finish prior to the AP College Examination time in May.

Our courses are offered in a 1-on-1 (1 student, 1 teacher) format, but it is still a full length accredited course the student will receive a transcript for and credit towards their diploma.

This means the teacher can count on a yearlong block of hours and have consistent classes with the student over a longer period of time and develop a relationship to understand their learning style.

The student is based in China so classes would be early morning US time during the week, or evenings/mornings on the weekend.

The student has studied Japanese for 6 years (since 4th grade elementary school in Japan), she can essentially read, write and speak Japanese.

For more details please see below.

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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: Travel Consultant (Japan Specialist)
Posted by: Inside Travel Group
Location: Broomfield, CO, USA, remote possible
Contract: Full-Time, no visa sponsorship

Description:
As a Travel Consultant with Inside Travel Group, you’ll put your excellent working knowledge of Japan to good use, familiarizing with our range of self-guided adventures to send your clients on cultural adventures that leave them in awe, from the minute they first get in touch to the moment they land back home.

Exceptional communication skills are non-negotiable – You’ll need confidence, charisma, and the ability to engage in order to be at your best in this role. You’ll also have excellent time management, being able to manage competing tasks and prioritize them accordingly to ensure you deliver the very best service to our customers.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here – https://insidetravelgroup.com/jobs/travel-consultants-japan-specialist-usa/

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 Professor of Instruction in Japanese
Posted by: Inside Travel Group
Location: Broomfield, CO, USA, remote possible
Contract: Full-Time; no visa sponsorship

Thanks to Inside Travel Group for passing along the following job opening.

Description: Inside Travel Group is currently accepting applications for a Travel Experience Specialist (Customer Support) to join our Broomfield, US office from January 2024.

Your role as a Travel Experience Specialist is twofold: proactively seeking opportunities to improve clients’ experience, as well as reactively helping to resolve any inbound issues, problems or requests.

The Customer Experience team plays an important role in monitoring the day-to-day travel environment, surveying everything from air and rail services through to weather events and public health risks, to keep our travelers abreast of any potential issues that might arise.

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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: Lecturer in Japanese
Posted by: Columbia University
Location: Columbia University, NY
Contract: Full-Time

Thank you to our friends at the American Association of Teachers of Japanese for this Job Posting.

Description

The Japanese Language Program (JLP) in the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures at Columbia University invites applications for a position at the rank of Lecturer in Japanese beginning July 1, 2024. 

Primary responsibilities include teaching two to three courses in Japanese language each semester in consultation with the JLP Director and department administration.  Administrative duties include curriculum development (both individual and collaborative) and assisting with the design and execution of program events. MA degree required, PhD or EdD preferred. 

High value is placed on ability to work closely with colleagues in the program.  The position is full-time with multi-year renewal contingent on successful review.  Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Salary Range or Pay Grade: $70,000 – $75,000

Qualifications

• Minimum Degree Required: MA degree in hand by the time of appointment, with specialization in Japanese linguistics, Japanese language pedagogy, applied linguistics, or other related fields.
• Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must have native or near-native fluency in Japanese, excellent command of English, and experience teaching at the college-level in the United States.
• Preferred Qualifications: Doctoral degree preferred.  Preferably, the candidate has experience teaching various levels of Japanese.  Leadership skills in collaborative projects and curriculum innovations and instructional technology are also desirable.

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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: Full-Time K-12 Japanese Teacher
Posted by: Riverwood International Charter School
Location: Sandy Springs, GA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thank you to our friends at the American Association of Teachers of Japanese for this Job Posting.

Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Georgia is seeking a highly qualified Japanese teacher who will be able to teach Japanese 1, 2, 3, and IB Japanese. This full-time position will start in August 2024.

Application Process: Please send a cover letter and a professional resume to the principal – Ms. Kindra Smith (Principal): SmithKL@fultonschools.org.

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: East Asian Studies Assistant Professor (Japanese) Tenure-Track
Posted by: Colby College
Location: Waterville, ME
Contract: Full-Time

Thank you to our friends at the American Association of Teachers of Japanese for this Job Posting.

Colby College seeks applicants for a tenure-track position in the Department of East Asian Studies as Assistant Professor (Japanese) to begin on Sept. 1, 2024. 

Applicants should have native or near-native ability in both English and Japanese, and be able to teach all levels of Japanese language as well as an occasional course in English in the applicant’s field of academic specialization. Preference will be given to candidates whose field of specialization will broaden our course offerings on modern Japan in any field in the humanities or social sciences including, but not limited to, literary or cultural studies, language pedagogy, anthropology, sociology, and history.  The committee is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the campus community.

Application Deadline: January 15, 2023

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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: 当館勤務の現地採用職員
Posted by: Consulate General of Japan in Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Contract: Full-Time; No visa sponsorship availiable

Thanks to the Consulate General of Japan in Chicago for passing along the following job opening.

Description:
経理事務、施設管理、庶務業務、受付業務等
（１）英語及び日本語に堪能であること。
（２）毎日、事務所に通勤可能であること。
（３）ワード、エクセル、インターネット、Ｅメール等パソコンの基本的スキルが身に付い
ていること。

Salary/Hourly Rate: 経験等により決定します。なお、総領事館は連邦税等の税額を給与から天引きい たしませんので、本人による申告が必要となります。

Application Process: ご関心のある方は、１１月１３日（月）までに履歴書（日本語で作成し、電話 番号又は電子メール等連絡先を必ず記載してください）を下記の宛先まで、郵送又は admin737@cg.mofa.go.jpのメールにてお送りください。

Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03) presents WIT Life, a periodic series about aspects of Japanese culture such as art, film, food and language. Stacy starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she offers some interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

Yesterday I had to chance to stop by the event MANGA in New York, presented by Ginza Sony Park Project. This free Chelsea exhibition features work from six groups of Japanese artists who use diverse forms of expression to create original manga. According to the enthusiastic staff member who greeted me at the door and kindly provided an explanation of the exhibition, this is one of several experimental activities being tested out for next year’s expected completion of the second phase of Ginza Sony Park (it opened in 2018). They’re looking to receive feedback from visitors and potentially incorporate it into their new project.

There are two floors of manga to enjoy, and enhancing the visitor experience is a free vending machine with specially designed MANGA-CANs exclusive to the event. When you put in the letter and number of your choice, you receive a can of tea with a label showing a scene from one of the manga in the exhibition. The label is actually a commemorative sticker, so you can peel it off to save when you’re done with the tea. I picked UEDA & SASAMI from illustrator Hikaru Ichijo, a manga depicting the story of an aspiring painter named Ueda and the hamster Sasami who lives in her stomach. Ueda derives her energy from Sasasmi running on her hamster wheel, and Sasami is in turn is powered by eating sunflower seeds. But what happens when Ueda discovers that she can be the source of her own strength?

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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: One-Year Leave Replacement Position in Japanese Language
Posted by: Williams College
Location: Williamstown, MA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Williams College, in Williamstown MA, invites applications for a one-year leave replacement position in Japanese language for the 2024-25 academic year, with teaching to begin in September 2024. Depending on the candidate’s qualifications, appointment will be made at the level of either visiting lecturer or visiting assistant professor. The teaching load will consist of two language courses per semester, and a three-week Winter Study sustaining course for Japanese 101 students in January 2025. This is a full-time position. Compensation includes salary and insurance benefits.

The successful candidate will join colleagues in a vibrant Department of Asian Languages, Literatures, and Cultures that offers three major tracks: Japanese, Chinese, and East Asian Languages and Cultures. The Japanese major requires four years of language study and the East Asian Languages and Cultures major requires three years of language study. The department also offers a dual language option under the East Asian Languages and Cultures major track. More information about the department can be found at https://www.williams.edu/dallc/. The department and the college offer mentoring and professional development opportunities, including participation in the college’s professional development program First3, access to a number of online NCFDD resources, and support through the newly established Rice Center for Teaching.

Review of applications will begin February 1, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. All offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a background check. Further information is available here: http://dean-faculty.williams.edu/prospective-faculty/background-check-policy/.

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