QnA | Software Engineer in Japan | Salary | Resume | Tokyo | Shibuya

Summary

In this video, Nandini, a software engineer working in Tokyo, shares her experiences and advice on living and working in Japan. She discusses the process of applying for jobs, transitioning from finance to software engineering, and the importance of skills over educational background. Nandini also offers insights into working in global teams, preparing for the Japanese Proficiency Test (JPT), and discovering Japan’s countryside. She shares her job search journey, including platforms like japandev.com, and provides valuable tips for those looking to work in Japan’s tech sector, including salary expectations and how to get hired in open-source Japanese startups.

Takeaways

• 😀 Networking and referrals are essential for job applications in Japan, as they can help bypass automated resume filters.
• 😀 Educational background matters less in Japan for tech roles, as companies focus more on relevant skills and experience.
• 😀 For those switching from finance to software engineering, showcasing self-taught skills and projects can help make the transition.
• 😀 Japanese companies value cultural fit and enthusiasm for work in interviews, especially in addition to technical skills.
• 😀 The Japan Science and Technology Agency's Sakura Science Club can be a great networking resource for connecting with Japanese companies.
• 😀 While big tech companies in Japan tend to hire from top-tier universities, referrals can help non-target college graduates get noticed.
• 😀 For Japanese language proficiency, aiming for JLPT N2 level is practical for most business situations in Japan's IT sector.
• 😀 Master’s degrees in Japan, especially from top universities, can enhance job prospects, particularly for roles in IT and related fields.
• 😀 Monthly living expenses in Tokyo can be around 200k yen, including rent, food, and travel, so financial planning is key when moving.
• 😀 Contributing to open-source projects is a great way to get noticed by startups, particularly for those wanting to work in Japan's tech industry.

Q & A

What helped you secure your current job in Japan as a software engineer?

My experience of working with global teams at a US-based startup in Bangalore played a significant role. Additionally, my resume matched the job description well, and my previous involvement with the Japan Science and Technology Agency, through the Sakura Science Club, helped me build connections. The networking aspect was crucial in securing the role.

Can someone from a finance background switch to a software engineering job in Japan?

Yes, it's possible. The senior architect on my team studied pharmacy, not engineering, but taught himself programming. In Japan, companies prioritize skills over educational background, especially due to the shortage of engineers. As long as your skills align with the job requirements, you can make a successful switch.

How can someone from a non-target university increase their chances of getting hired by big tech companies in Japan?

Referrals are key. Even if you're not from a top-tier university, having someone from the company refer you can significantly increase your chances. Referrals ensure your resume is manually reviewed, improving the likelihood of getting an interview, especially for companies that focus on cultural fit and skills over educational background.

What advice would you give to someone studying for the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test)?

For effective JLPT preparation, use textbooks like 'Minna no Nihongo' or 'Genki' for grammar and vocabulary. Pair this structured learning with real-life conversation practice, either with language exchange partners or tutors. Combining both will help you improve your language skills and prepare for the JLPT.

What did you discover about the countryside areas of Japan?

I visited Tokushima, located on Shikoku Island, which is a peaceful, mountainous area. It has beautiful landscapes, rivers, and traditional villages. I also discovered a startup school there where students learn to build startups from a young age. The contrast between modern architecture and traditional homes was striking.

How did you learn Japanese, and can you recommend any resources?

I started learning Japanese with a personal tutor after moving to Japan. He is fluent in Hindi, English, and Japanese, and his energetic teaching style makes the lessons engaging. If you're interested, I can share his contact info. For self-study, you can use popular resources like 'Genki' or 'Minna no Nihongo'.

How do you apply for jobs in Japan as a software engineer?

I used the job board 'japandev.com,' which is a great platform for finding tech roles in Japan. It was really helpful during my job search and is a useful resource for anyone looking for opportunities in the Japanese tech industry.

What level of Japanese proficiency is required to work in the IT sector in Japan?

For engineers working in global teams, minimal Japanese is often required, as many companies use English internally. However, for roles involving direct customer interaction, business-level Japanese (JPT N2) is needed. N1 is the highest level but is very challenging, so N2 is a realistic goal for most professionals.

Is pursuing a master's in computer science from a Japanese university worth it?

A master's degree in information technology or a related field can be valuable, especially if you graduate from a top university like Tokyo University. Having a degree from a well-known institution definitely helps with job prospects, but the financial costs of tuition and living expenses should also be considered.

What is the typical salary range for software engineers in Japan with less than 3 years of experience?

For software engineers with less than 3 years of experience, the typical salary range in Japan is between 4.8 million yen to 10 million yen per year. With more experience, salaries can go up to 15 million yen or more, depending on the company and skills.