Does Amazon Tokyo Hire Foreigners?

Many individuals curious about opportunities in Amazon Tokyo often wonder whether they might qualify for employment. This is a common question as Japan has strict regulations concerning foreign workers. Let's delve into the specifics of hiring processes in Amazon Japan, particularly in Tokyo, and the language requirements associated with different job roles.

Language Proficiency Requirements

To thrive in an Amazon Tokyo job, especially for full-time positions, you will likely need to have a high level of proficiency in Japanese. The N1 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test ( JLPT) is highly recommended. This level is the highest and demonstrates a near-native ability in the Japanese language. For part-time roles, while a lower level (N2) might suffice, fluency in Japanese is almost always a must.

Part-Time Job Roles in Amazon Tokyo

Amazon Tokyo offers two types of part-time positions:

1. Warehouse Job

This role involves tasks such as picking items from orders or packaging them. While proficiency in Japanese is crucial, the requirements for communication with other employees might be more relaxed. However, it is essential to have at least an N2 level, as there will be some Japanese communication involved, albeit limited.

2. Call Center Job

The call center role in Amazon Tokyo is more demanding. To secure this position, you should have an N1 level in Japanese, as this reflects a deep and comprehensive understanding of the language, required for customer interactions. Additionally, fluency in English is highly valued, as many of Amazon's customers in Japan struggle with English, making multilingual skills attractive for employers.

Application Process

When applying for a position in Japan, the application process is entirely in Japanese. This means you will need to prepare a proper Japanese resume, known as a "Rireki-sho," as well as a "Shokumu-Keirekisho," which is similar to a CV but requires detailed information about all your previous positions. While non-Japanese speakers can still apply, the complexity of these documents and the necessity of the language skills make the process challenging.

Conclusion

While Amazon Tokyo certainly hires foreign workers, the language requirements are stringent. To increase your chances of success, focusing on achieving a high JLPT level (N1) would be highly beneficial. Furthermore, having additional language skills, such as English, adds value for positions like the call center role.

Understanding these requirements can help you better prepare your application and increase your chances of landing a job in Amazon Tokyo. Whether you are looking for a part-time or full-time position, being well-versed in Japanese is your key to success.