Assistant Language Teacher (ALT)

• Assisting JTEs (Japanese Teachers of English) in teaching.
• Supervising foreign language activities such as English clubs, English camps, and speaking tests.
• Preparing class materials, editing tests, correcting homework, pronouncing words, making posters, and so on.
• Participating in extracurricular activities such as clubs (calligraphy, band, drawing, English, etc.), sports (baseball, basketball, badminton, soccer, table tennis, etc. ), and student events (festivals, Sports day, Multicultural day, etc.)
• Engaging with the local community in special events.
• Duties required or asked by your CO (contracting organization), your employer in Japan.

As a JET, this is only a handful of the duties you may be asked to perform. Every ALT position varies by what is required by their CO. Personally, none of my schools had an English Club; however, I went out of my way to participate in all school events and join club activities like table tennis.

For a more in-depth look, check out the ALT Role or the Application Process.

Coordinator for International Relations (CIR)

The other 9.99% of JETs are made up of CIRs. They are responsible for international activities, translation, and interpretation for their local government authorities or organizations. CIRs typically have the equivalent of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Certification of N2 or N1 Japanese fluency. However, it is not a requirement for the position.

Expected Duties for CIRs:

• Assisting in projects related to international activities and events carried out by their CO or BoE.
• Translating publications into foreign languages such as pamphlets, posters, news articles, essential information for foreigners, and so on.
• Conducting English language courses and other language courses for local government employees and residents.

Note: you can be an ALT and transition into a CIR role if available in your city, town, or prefecture. It’s not uncommon to meet a CIR who was once an ALT for 2-3 years and decided to apply for the position internally. 

Sports Exchange Advisor (SEA)

The last 0.01% of JETs are SEAs. SEA participants promote international exchange through designated sports and activities. This position is very rare. It is only recruited for when a Contracting Organization has the need for a qualified coach or someone with the necessary experience to fill the role. Basically, there are only a few SEA positions and openings only occur when someone finishes their contract term.

Expected duties for SEAs:

• Cooperation in sports and training local athletes.
• Assisting in sports activities following instructions from CO.
• Cooperation in training CO employees and local residents.
• Performing any other duties designated by their CO.

The JET Program employs participants in these three important positions. The most common is Assistant Language Teacher (ALT), followed by Coordinator for International Relations (CIR), and the rare Sports Exchange Advisor (SEA). Any of these roles will be rewarding for an aspiring JET. Choose wisely when committing to a position you want to apply for.

The Official JET Programme PR video below: