Base work & other opportunities for US civilians

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

I am very interested to learn more about options other than teaching English. Any leads or info most appreciated.

[dk]

What kind of work experience do you have? What kind of employment are you seeking?

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

I have experience as a lab tech, english instructor, and management. I am looking for management or related work. I am willing to start lower if there are opportunities to advance in the future.

Thanks for any info you can provide.

[dk]

I guess this would be the best place to start: http://www.japanupdate.com/classifieds/english/?s=HELP

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Thanks for the advice. I have used Japan Update classifieds for many things, but they are not especially good for jobs. Perhaps I could work for them improving their help wanted section:D

[Cathleen_38]

i applied for a job as a motor vehicle operator, whether I get or not well, time will tell. But I've got to find a place to live and get a visa if it does fall through. Are Visas automatic if you apply for a MCCS Job? Since it's a Federal
job? Or do you have to apply for a Visa? And are there other hidden costs I need to know about before coming to OKinawa again?

[DoctorP]

i applied for a job as a motor vehicle operator, whether I get or not well, time will tell. But I've got to find a place to live and get a visa if it does fall through. Are Visas automatic if you apply for a MCCS Job? Since it's a Federal
job? Or do you have to apply for a Visa? And are there other hidden costs I need to know about before coming to OKinawa again?


If you get hired, you will be on SOFA status, and no visa required. From your post I gather you are not physically here, and you put in for a job right?

[dk]

Thanks for the advice. I have used Japan Update classifieds for many things, but they are not especially good for jobs. Perhaps I could work for them improving their help wanted section:D
Just saw this comment. I've been thinking about building a proper jobseeker section on JU, but it'll have to wait until I finish upgrading the classifieds (I'm soooooooooo close to being done.....) and making a few other improvements, but I'm all ears if you want to help me with suggestions as I build it! :p That'll be a monster project...

[Fonze]

I am very interested to learn more about options other than teaching English. Any leads or info most appreciated.

Have you tried http://mccsokinawa.com under apply for mccs job.

[DoctorP]

Way to come through a month later Fonze! (j/k)

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Just saw this comment. I've been thinking about building a proper jobseeker section on JU, but it'll have to wait until I finish upgrading the classifieds (I'm soooooooooo close to being done.....) and making a few other improvements, but I'm all ears if you want to help me with suggestions as I build it! :p That'll be a monster project...
Thanks for answering. It looks like maybe one problem could be advertising sales, or maybe there is a bigger lack of jobs for foreigners than I realized. I would be happy to help if I can. Either way, I'm very interested in your project. I'll definitely give some thought to what would be nice to see.:)

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Have you tried http://mccsokinawa.com under apply for mccs job.
I did take a look. Thanks:)

[dk]

Thanks for answering. It looks like maybe one problem could be advertising sales, or maybe there is a bigger lack of jobs for foreigners than I realized. I would be happy to help if I can. Either way, I'm very interested in your project. I'll definitely give some thought to what would be nice to see.:)
Ok. Give it a couple months or more... I've got a lot on my plate right now but I'm definitely interested in this.

[Fonze]

Way to come through a month later Fonze! (j/k)

Ya I must have missed this thread:)

[Fonze]

http://www.oki.med.navy.mil/

eelecurb you can always try this one to but I think JU runs a couple of these already.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

http://www.oki.med.navy.mil/

eelecurb you can always try this one to but I think JU runs a couple of these already.
Thank you.:)

[renclenque]

I believe, from an article I read in Oki Mar, you have to have SOFA status when you apply for MCCS jobs.
My personal collection of job hunting links in Okinawa can be found:
http://del.icio.us/renclenque/jobs
I'm looking for an environmental job with no luck. ;(
Good luck with your search! I know it makes it harder being so far away...

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Any and all info welcomed. Thanks!

[Cathleen_38]

Way to come through a month later Fonze! (j/k)
to answer your question, I live in Newark, Ohio and I was a former Marine the first time I came to Okinawa in 1991 through 1992. I got out in 1993 for a honorable medical discharge. My knees went bad on me. Pantello-Femoral Syndrome. I put in for Motor Vehicle Operator in Okinawa and sent my resume.
as far as PCSing- that might be an issue too because I have a van that i'm paying on and will they transport all my furniture and stuff for me as I travel to Japan? The reason why I did this in the first place was make more money. I currently work at Mcdonald's making less than 9.00 an hour. Nothing to sneeze at but when you've got bills to pay, and the bills are more than what you're making, it's worth a shot coming back to Okinawa. I love the people there and I love the atmosphere. I miss being there period. People there treat you with upmost respect when you enter their homes. I will never forget the hospitality shown by the Okinawan people while I had my short stay the first time. I don't forget. And If I work there? Man, I will make it my home! I'd be happy like you wouldn't believe! To tell you the truth, I should've never left in the first place, but things at home weren't good. My aunt was dying from melanoma. she passed away in July of 94. There's so much to catch up on with my okinawan friends, our lives have changed so much over the last 14 years. And that's why I use this forum to stay in contact with them. I tried Naomi's Okinawa Connection but this one is much better. You can speak your mind more on this website.

[Cathleen_38]

i didn"t get the job< which reALLy sucks.

[Tanimaga]

I'm from Athens... many of my friends and brothers work around Newark.

[Bones]

I'm glad that I logged on tonight. Once we get settled, I'm thinking about getting a part time job, just to pay for my toys.

So if I apply for a job, and do not have SOFA status, but have the skills that my employer needs, will they provide me with the necessary paperwork to get SOFA status? I tried to get the stamp when we entered Japan, but since I was coming over here to retire, they refused to grant me that status.

Just curious, but I'm hoping that someone out there has some advice. :old:

NBTP

[DoctorP]

SOFA and housing allowance are two completely different things. NBTP, if you are hired for a MCCS, 18 services(I think), or GS position, then you will receive SOFA status. It is not easy to get one of these positions though. Since you are a former AAFES employee, you may want to go that route first! (then you can share your employee discount with me!)

[Cathleen_38]

HMM... apply for affes?

[DoctorP]

I was referring to NBTP...but you could try.

[Bones]

Thanks for the reply Guyjin, but I think that you missed the intent of my post.

I was just inquiring if some employer hires me, would they provide me with the paperwork for SOFA status, if having SOFA status is a prerequisite for getting the job in the first place.

Being a retired military member, I have access to just about everything that you have.

A P.O. Box, would be nice. I could care less about having a Y-plate, housing allowance, or being able to shop at the "Thrift Store".

But thanks anyway.

NBTP

[Bones]

DoctorP wrote:

then you can share that employee discount with me!

AAFES, doesn't give employee discounts. On your birthday, you get a coupon for 10% off, that can only be used if you go to AAFES.com.:cursing:

Employees, even have to wait for 24 hours, before they can take advantage of special sales, so even if the store that you are working at carries a "Hot-Item" that everybody out there desperately craves, you can't purchase it yourself. I've known people that were fired, for breaking that rule.

And for everybody else, I'm not looking for a "Fancy Job Title", just thinking ahead about some toys that I want to buy, or to get out of the house, when things get boring. I'd be just as happy cutting grass, or working for AAFES.

NBTP

[Bones]

That's okay, Guyjin,

I've been around long enough to know about the "Good Old Boys" thing.

And my past work experiences, won't leave too much of a paper trail that someone will have to dig through. Shouldn't be much of a problem however.

Once I get my foot in the door, the only people that will have anything to fear, are the people who would like to see things remain as they are. That's a pretty bold statement to be sure, but I'm confident that I'm up to the task.

One thing that gives me so much confidence, is having been able to see the people who are working over here right now. What a waste of Tax Dollars.:rolleyes:

But then again, they belong to the club.

NBTP

[DoctorP]

If you are serious about doing "other" types of work, I can point you in a couple of directions. Hell, cutting grass can get you rich over here...since you have the free time to do it during the day! I've got a friend about to sell his business...a little weekend type of thing, making pretty good money.

[Bones]

Guyjin wrote:

Yeah that "club" needs to be shut down permanently!
A big waste of tax dollars not to mention some of the "members" are lazy and unproductive.

Nice one. And it needs to be "shut sown" permanently, worldwide.

In fairness, there is some talent out there. When we were over here the last time, I've had the pleasure of dealing with people that had gone out of their way to help me with a particular problem. Those people should be retained.

At other times, when I confronted another worker within the shop that had the expertise that I needed:

1. It's not my job.

2. Late for my Tee-time.

3. There's a sale at the exchange....

These are the kind of people that need to be weeded out, but they won't be.

The "Boss", is a member of the "The Club".

NBTP

[DoctorP]

3. There's a sale at the exchange....

These are the kind of people that need to be weeded out, but they won't be.

The "Boss", is a member of the "The Club".

NBTP


These are the ones that kill me. Uh...you are supposed to be at work right? They always answer something like "Don't worry, nobody cares...there's my boss over there anyway!" :confused::-|

[hankypanky]

Unless your SOFA, It is nearly impossible to get sofa unless you want to sell cars. At least that is a starting point. I know a few who have started selling cars to get sofa and then applied to a non-apropriated job (club work) and then worked until they could move up to GS or a commissary job.

As a retiree also, i do miss the post office sometimes, but friends help me with that. If your willing to sweat, there are jobs out there.

I'd rather work in town than base any day. Base has two many rules and laws to adhere to. In town, I can call someone an asshole and don't have to worry about getting into trouble! I don't deal well with political correctiveness!!

Speak your mind and sleep well tonight! No Stress Rules:w00t:

[Cathleen_38]

I hear ya on that one!!

[DoctorP]

I'd rather work in town than base any day. Base has two many rules and laws to adhere to. In town, I can call someone an asshole and don't have to worry about getting into trouble! I don't deal well with political correctiveness!!

Speak your mind and sleep well tonight! No Stress Rules:w00t:

I'll call someone an asshole whether on or off base...as long as the term fits! I don't hold back when it comes to idiots!:thumbdown:

[Cathleen_38]

that's the way I feel!!

[Asshat]

If one is off-island, don’t bother applying for a local job that doesn't include transportation. You won’t get SOFA out of it. Only apply for those jobs that are worldwide announcements, or where the applicant pool doesn’t specify the local area.

For the local jobs, one must already have SOFA status. (a family member of a military/DoD/Gov sponsor) For those here with a gaijin torokusho (excuse my spelling, but you know who you are) your biggest obstacle is the Japanese government. No one is going to hire you locally and give you SOFA unless your skill set is off the chart. (A member of the club as some have said)

All US Government agencies announce positions on USA Jobs. If you are already here, you'll be considered a local. (with a couple of exceptions)

If you come into my office for an interview (provided your resume and application made it through the HR process) I’ll have a difficult selecting you if you think the rest of my employees are here simply because they are members of the "club." There are plenty of other applicants who are genuinely qualified, and I’ll select those, thank you.

[Bones]

Posted by Uminchu:

For those here with a gaijin torokusho (excuse my spelling, but you know who you are) your biggest obstacle is the Japanese government.

Thanks for the reply Uminchu, to-Roku Sho, had me confused for a few minutes, but I'm pretty sure that I know what you mean.

You stated that "your biggest obstacle is the Japanese government". Can you expand on that a little bit? Are you saying that having a to-roku sho, is a bad thing if you're trying to obtain SOFA status? If so, in what way? Is there more paperwork involved?

My apologies, if my post offended you. There are a lot of GS type workers out there who are probably doing a good job. But it's been my experience, that those are the people who had just been hired. They have to do a good job if they want to continue their employment.

Looking fwd to your reply. :D

NBTP

[Asshat]

Meaning that although you may be hired for a local job, you wont be getting any housing allowance, transportation rights, etc. The GS jobs for local hires will include SOFA, but many of the other jobs (MWR etc) will not.

Also, it must be understood that many agencies consider the applicant pool to be adequate in the local area...thus they announce positions for local hire only which saves money and expedites the hiring process.

Many managers look for a fresh face when recruiting for and selecting people for positions. That is a far cry from any good old boys club. After all, that manager has to live with the decision in any case. NSPS has and will continue to replace GS in the DoD. This makes the firing process much simpler, as well as pay scheduling via a banded system.

In the overseas environment, the GS slacker taking three hour bathroom breaks simply does not exist anymore. I don't know any Gov. employee who does not work more than their eight-hour shift with no compensation asked for. Competition is stiff.

[DoctorP]

Meaning that although you may be hired for a local job, you wont be getting any housing allowance, transportation rights, etc. The GS jobs for local hires will include SOFA, but many of the other jobs (MWR etc) will not.

When I left MCCS, all MCCS positions included SOFA...let me reprhase...all full time MCCS positions included SOFA. I doubt that has changed.

... NSPS has and will continue to replace GS in the DoD. This makes the firing process much simpler, as well as pay scheduling via a banded system.

In the overseas environment, the GS slacker taking three hour bathroom breaks simply does not exist anymore. I don't know any Gov. employee who does not work more than their eight-hour shift with no compensation asked for. Competition is stiff.

There are still plenty of GS slackers. Okinawa is far from being purged! Competition is stiff, but there are still quite a few people around who don't pull their own weight!

[Asshat]

When I left MCCS, all MCCS positions included SOFA...let me reprhase...all full time MCCS positions included SOFA. I doubt that has changed.

Yes, it has changed. Most positions do not have SOFA.


There are still plenty of GS slackers. Okinawa is far from being purged! Competition is stiff, but there are still quite a few people around who don't pull their own weight!

Your opinion...

[DoctorP]

Your opinion...

Nope...observation. Opinion is something you hold to yourself. An observation is something that you have seen and is there for others to see as well.

[resumes4success]

It sounds like people haven't done their homework on employment opportunities in Okinawa. Grab a cuppa and indulge me for a moment...

Everyone keeps talking about employment opportunities with MCCS, 18th Services, AAFES, and Government jobs (GS jobs on usajobs etc.). These jobs are the worst paying jobs on Okinawa! The hiring process is tedious/painful. The government jobs are good only if you can get GS-9 or higher (although it is a start).

There are other options on Okinawa...DEFENSE CONTRACTORS:

Honeywell
CSC
SAIC
Lockheed
Boeing
General Dynamics
DS2
New Breed
Mantech
ITT
L-3 Communications
...and many more!

This is just to name a few of MANY more companies that have openings here. I operate a resume writing service (Resumes4Success) for people specifically seeking employment with defense contractors. I also keep my clients informed about new employment opportunities here in Okinawa as well as other worldwide locations.

I am retired from the military and work full time as a defense contractor. I have been through the school of hard knocks when it comes to job searching, networking, interviews, and salary negotiations.

[B]Please email me if you would like more information. Remember, a resume is a ticket to an interview...an interview is the ticket to the job!


Sincerely,
Robert

[socalheart]

Most people here don't have degrees in engineering and computers required for most positions with the companies listed above. I looked into those companies a few years back. I have a BA degree, but didn't find anything with those companies not requiring a BS degree (or more) in engineering or computers. Each research experience is different for each person though. Perhaps someone else will find something now that I didn't find then.

[resumes4success]

Partially true. It helps to have hard skills for these jobs. Lots of people gain this experience in the military but don't have the education. Companies hire people like this all the time.

"The unaimed arrow never misses"

[Tanimaga]

Everyone keeps talking about employment opportunities with MCCS, 18th Services, AAFES, and Government jobs (GS jobs on usajobs etc.). These jobs are the worst paying jobs on Okinawa! The hiring process is tedious/painful. The government jobs are good only if you can get GS-9 or higher (although it is a start).
[/B]

If you have a decent skill set, I don't see any of these opportunities being bad..I work for 18th Services as a NAF employee, and total $22.00/hr. income.

Granted, there are many employers out there, but many of these positions come and go with the tide. For me personally, I'm here for my daughter. Won't leave her for anything, and I'm unwilling to seperate her from her mother (divorced). A single guy can't play games when it comes to SOFA. I require something concrete, and not a job that gets pulled out from under my feet. Several friends of mine work for various companies (Dyncorp, Lockheed, General Dynamics, NSPS) and either they jump from temporary 6-12mo. positions, bite their nails wondering if they are going to have enough funding the next fiscal year to keep them on, or wonder what they will do after their 5 year expiration date.

Quote:
"Please email me if you would like more information. Remember, a resume is a ticket to an interview...an interview is the ticket to the job!"

Nice sales pitch..
If you think you can find a welding, machining, certified mechanic, ex-Army SATCOM guy a job that fits my criteria, let me know!

[FDokinawa]

If you have a decent skill set, I don't see any of these opportunities being bad..I work for 18th Services as a NAF employee, and total $22.00/hr. income.

Granted, there are many employers out there, but many of these positions come and go with the tide. For me personally, I'm here for my daughter. Won't leave her for anything, and I'm unwilling to seperate her from her mother (divorced). A single guy can't play games when it comes to SOFA. I require something concrete, and not a job that gets pulled out from under my feet. Several friends of mine work for various companies (Dyncorp, Lockheed, General Dynamics, NSPS) and either they jump from temporary 6-12mo. positions, bite their nails wondering if they are going to have enough funding the next fiscal year to keep them on, or wonder what they will do after their 5 year expiration date.

Quote:
"Please email me if you would like more information. Remember, a resume is a ticket to an interview...an interview is the ticket to the job!"

Nice sales pitch..
If you think you can find a welding, machining, certified mechanic, ex-Army SATCOM guy a job that fits my criteria, let me know!

Im a contractor here.. and like you said, we just went through a contract renewal, and it was stressfull. Wondering if I was going to be able to keep my job.. and if I did, who would I be working for. But as it stands, the money is well worth the stress every 5 years. And as long as my company keeps doing an outstanding job, I think we'll be here for a while.

Tanimaga.. where did you do army SATCOM??

[Tanimaga]

I was stationd at Ft. Buckner for several years. I enjoyed comm work, but enjoyed the mechanical side more. Thats why I got into machining after I left the military.

[FDokinawa]

I was stationd at Ft. Buckner for several years. I enjoyed comm work, but enjoyed the mechanical side more. Thats why I got into machining after I left the military.

ahhh what years were you there? I was SATCOM there from 97-03 and then from 05 to present..

[Tanimaga]

I was there from 91-94..

I believe the CWO and I were Specialists together...(Perez?)

[FDokinawa]

I was there from 91-94..

I believe the CWO and I were Specialists together...(Perez?)

ahh wow.. a real real old timer.. lol

And isnt that ironic.. the next CWO was here as an E-5 with me.

[Tanimaga]

Perez is gone now?

Only had 2 radomes when I was there. Lots of memories...

[FDokinawa]

Perez is gone now?

Only had 2 radomes when I was there. Lots of memories...

nope.. he is still there. Wont be leaving till sometime next year. We just already know who is replaceing him.

[Asshat]

Nope...observation. Opinion is something you hold to yourself. An observation is something that you have seen and is there for others to see as well.

And let me guess....you don't want to name names? Seriously, let me know. I'd like to apply there.

[Tanimaga]

I applied there a while back, but was turned down as "not having the specialized experience". I figured working there for 3 years and 1500 hours of SATCOM training said different, but I guess not. The job I referred to in an earlier post was on Kadena. Applied for a position, and was qualified...1 month later had to re-submit paperwork for the same position...suddenly I'm lacking something. Same exact paperwork. Hard to figure out sometimes.

I'm going to look up Perez..haven't seen him in years. He was one of the easiest going guys to hang out with back in the day.

[DoctorP]

I applied there a while back, but was turned down as "not having the specialized experience". I figured working there for 3 years and 1500 hours of SATCOM training said different, but I guess not. The job I referred to in an earlier post was on Kadena. Applied for a position, and was qualified...1 month later had to re-submit paperwork for the same position...suddenly I'm lacking something. Same exact paperwork. Hard to figure out sometimes.

I'm going to look up Perez..haven't seen him in years. He was one of the easiest going guys to hang out with back in the day.

I was turned down there about 6 years ago...they said that I didn't have "enough experience". I had been doing that same job for 14 years! WTF? Then I realized that it was probably my goof for not doing a good enough job on the 612 that I filled out. Oh well...I wound up at a better place anyway. Still, I would have enjoyed that job!

[Tanimaga]

True..you have to know the wording system used by the "bots" just to get thru the initial filter..
Sadly, I've seen qualified people overlooked by buddy systems and system manipulation.

Opening up my own business sounds better and better.

[okiprince07]

dOES ANYONE KNOW IF I GET MY BROTHER TO COME HERE ON A VISA if he can work on base? i am wondering cause this will be last time i will see him for awhile...already been a year and half and when he comes it will be 2 years...?

[jimbob17755]

Hello Cathleen38,
I am Jimbob, a group member and see that you are looking for work. I have been looking for a job in Okinawa for a year now,being I am retired from U.S. Post Office and want to retire/relocate to the island. I have joined many groups like this seeking help but have been unsucessfull,but this info is for you.
1-I have no skills or trade so I am looking for jobs doing manual labor( moving co., furniture, car dealers, porter, bar jobs)
2-because I seek this work I need a work visa or a visa that will let me stay longer than my 90 day tourist passport type.
3-visas are given to those:a- married to locals,b-have higher education and secure teaching jobs or high tech/skill jobs c- have somehow establisshed or bought a business and are considered good for ecconomy d-military/dod people that have SOFA status.
SOFA staus is a freebe for military, kind of an umbrella visa .(another visa would be a student visa)
4-I tried all military job organizations(mccs,aafees,red cross,uso etc.) The low end/unskilled jobs that fit me did not come with the SOFA status so military deps. were taking these jobs because they have sofa and are on the island.The jobs that give sofa status were high end skill or high management spots. In plain english I am not qualified for a sofa job.
5-other jobs I was looking at required me to already be in country to apply and have proper work visa.Well I can't afford to live there for 2-3 months while I look for work.
6-the truth of the matter is that the U.S. gov has agreed to hire out most jobs to locals(9,000 on okinawa alone-6000 of the employees are unionized so that probably has a lot to trying to get a job if you are an outsider)as part of the agreements to the leases we have on the base property. Oh yes, that land is not ours, we rent it from a conglomeration of small and large parcel holders!
7-Most of the US people you see working,especially men are married to locals or secured DOD jobs prior to separation and have SOFA.
Hope this info was helpfull and hang in there! If you get info for work PLEASE contact me,and vice versa! GOOD LUCK! Jimbob

[okisteve]

Jimbob seems to have a very realistic picture of the situation - basically it's hard to get a long-term visa to live Japan.

If that were not the case, or if someone who wanted to live and work here had some way of getting a visa (marriage to a Japanese citizen, for example), I would offer this advice even though jobs are scarce:

I lived in a semi-rural area in the western US for 25 years that was considered a great place to live, but good jobs were (still are) impossible to find. Over the years I observed many skilled and qualified people who came there anyway and took any available job, or volunteered with some organization until something better opened up. Some started their own service businesses. (Nowadays the ones who are not massage therapists are web designers.) It really takes patience, flexibility and perseverence.

But the challenges of doing it here in Okinawa are much greater, starting with the language barrier and the visa barrier. Good luck....

[Bones]

Hmmm.....

"JimBobs" post, seems like a farce to me. But there is some truth to it.

I'll leave it at that, for now.

NBTP

[FDokinawa]

I dont see how you think its a farce.. sounds like what ive been told time and again by everyone I know thats looked for jobs overe here.. lots of catch 22's. have to have SOFA to get a base job, but cant get SOFA without getting a base job. Same with off base, need a work visa to work here, but cant get a work visa without having a job first. and very few companies will hire you without a work visa.

Yes, there are exceptions to every rule, but for the most part this is how it works.

[socalheart]

I found the same problems and issues as jimbob when looking for employment here prior to getting married. Neither the Japanese gov't nor the US military make it easy for foreigners (non Japanese nat'l) to work here in order to stay in-country legally. The Japanese gov't even have restrictions on Japanese companies regarding hiring SOFA status employees.

[DoctorP]

It is hard, but I was hired while living here on a tourist visa. I had no SOFA, but received one after I was hired.

[FDokinawa]

It is hard, but I was hired while living here on a tourist visa. I had no SOFA, but received one after I was hired.

yes, it can be done, it has been done. But.. im sure you filled a job that they probably couldnt hire a typical dependant spouse to do.

Just like jimbob stated..

4-I tried all military job organizations(mccs,aafees,red cross,uso etc.) The low end/unskilled jobs that fit me did not come with the SOFA status so military deps. were taking these jobs because they have sofa and are on the island.The jobs that give sofa status were high end skill or high management spots. In plain english I am not qualified for a sofa job.

[DoctorP]

I took a job with MCCS that is usually always open. Not a fun job at that.

[Asshat]

I took a job with MCCS that is usually always open. Not a fun job at that.

Many of us did to pay the bills. Nothing wrong with starting out there. :)

[hankypanky]

Hell i just got a 4 day gig at sam's to play santa during the holidays. New years money!:thumbup1:

[Tony Stacks]

I found the same problems and issues as jimbob when looking for employment here prior to getting married. Neither the Japanese gov't nor the US military make it easy for foreigners (non Japanese nat'l) to work here in order to stay in-country legally. The Japanese gov't even have restrictions on Japanese companies regarding hiring SOFA status employees.


Well it's good that the GOJ has regulations on SOFA personnel working off base. I thank God because they have no right to those jobs off base. That's taking jobs away from people like me that are permanant residents here!

[a_bjyrd]

Try the Hospital!

[FDokinawa]

Well it's good that the GOJ has regulations on SOFA personnel working off base. I thank God because they have no right to those jobs off base. That's taking jobs away from people like me that are permanant residents here!

So you want to be a stripper?? :D thats about the only job that I could see dependants doing off base.. but they better be fracking hot!!

Disclaimer: There is absolutely nothing wrong with japanese strippers.. just like a little variety sometimes. :thumbup1:

[Black Orchid]

Ive been here since febuary and to be honest its pretty hard to find a job here i dont know if im looking in the wrong places but i really would like to find a job here... any suggestions?

[newboki]

Try the Hospital!

What kind of jobs are offered at the hospital? And is that on or off-base?

Chris

[FDokinawa]

Ive been here since febuary and to be honest its pretty hard to find a job here i dont know if im looking in the wrong places but i really would like to find a job here... any suggestions?

18th services and MCCS have openings for dependants all the time. Or are you looking for something specific?

[Black Orchid]

18th services and MCCS have openings for dependants all the time. Or are you looking for something specific?

i haven been applying to mccs since ive been here and gotten about 2 interviews.. i have just about given up on them and aafes

i have tried 18 services but right now i dont have a vehicle and its far to get to kadena right now.. so somewhere close is my only preference at the moment

[FDokinawa]

ahhh yea, not being able to get to another base seriously limits you.. well I know your not the only one. this has been a big issue with everyone.. the japanese have to have so many jobs on base(so dont get mad at the workers) and your also competeing against every other dependant and ex-military person on island looking for SOFA..

Just keep plugging away at it and dont let it get you down, or sour your experiance on island.

[Black Orchid]

can i ask why is it that way?

and are there other options?

[DougP]

Its pretty much just the way it is. Not a whole lot of jobs to go around really. Especially good ones. A lot of regular office jobs are already filled by locals or people that are here for the long haul. It makes more sense that way because why would a company or office want to worry about having to refill a position every 2 or 3 years when they could fill it with someone who lives here permanently? That and there's also a good ol' boy system that's in effect here. In other words people that have been around or in the system for a while seem to have dibs on opening positions. Newcomers to the island pretty much just have to settle for what is available at the moment. A lot of times its about who you know too. Networking is very essential if you want to find good work out here. Hell, I got out of the military back in March after being in for 10 years and still have a security clearance. It wasn't until just recently that I found something, which is still getting worked out. Lets just say after several months all that waiting is starting to pay off.

So you can imagine that if a 10 year vet with a TS clearance and a background in communication and IT isn't finding work over here right away, it may not be the greatest place job market wise.:D Seriously though, patience and networking pays off.:) Another thing that has helped me out a great deal was the fact I had already been here over 5 years before I got out of the Army. Got to know quite a few people that have been very helpful along the way.

[Hollarey]

Yeah, I applied for a bank position since I have years experience in banking and I didnt even get that. I gave up trying and gonna join in on the home business my hubby has established. This spring when the grass gets thick again, I will be mowing yards all day. It will help with the tan, shed some pounds and just give me some alone time. I will just put on my headphones and jam out while cutting. Sounds good to me and will make more money doing that than a job at the BX since that seems to be the only thing besides the CDC and I sure as hell dont want to work there.

[Black Orchid]

^^^ dont want to work there either

but then i feel bad for being picky

ya i guess it is about who you know... sigh...

[FDokinawa]

A lot of dependants get pissed that there are so many japanese people working on base.. "takeing all the good jobs" as i've heard it put. The thing they dont realise is that the japanese government pretty much told the U.S. that if we want bases here and we want them to pay for eveything, wich the japanese government does, then the military has to hire XXXX number of local nationals. So getting upset at a japanese person working on base isnt going to help. Im not saying you are.. but I've heard it said way to many times, and I know I would be wondering why if I dint know better.

And as for what Doug said.. yea, that good ol' boy system is in full swing here on okinawa. But I cant hate it, its how I got my job. But im a contractor, so we wouldnt hire a dependant that was only going to be here for 3 years when our contract is for 5 years.. You really need to try and get a GS position.. pretty sure if you'r GS they have to find you a job when your husband PCS's. But dont quote me on that..

[Black Orchid]

A lot of dependants get pissed that there are so many japanese people working on base.. "takeing all the good jobs" as i've heard it put. The thing they dont realise is that the japanese government pretty much told the U.S. that if we want bases here and we want them to pay for eveything, wich the japanese government does, then the military has to hire XXXX number of local nationals. So getting upset at a japanese person working on base isnt going to help. Im not saying you are.. but I've heard it said way to many times, and I know I would be wondering why if I dint know better.

And as for what Doug said.. yea, that good ol' boy system is in full swing here on okinawa. But I cant hate it, its how I got my job. But im a contractor, so we wouldnt hire a dependant that was only going to be here for 3 years when our contract is for 5 years.. You really need to try and get a GS position.. pretty sure if you'r GS they have to find you a job when your husband PCS's. But dont quote me on that..

yes.. honestly i have felt that way i dont really understand how it really works here.. but it is really frustrating, and yes it seems unfair as well. what is a good ol boy system? and its hard to even make my resume look good to even get in the door when the last time i worked was a year ago at my last duty station.

[FDokinawa]

good ol boy system is having friends that hook you up with a job. ie.. I didnt even have to do an interview.. I had 4 friends that knew me and knew I was a good technition. They told the boss that and he hired me on the spot.. Ive seen a lot of people get jobs that they know nothing about because they know someone. Thats just the way it works sometimes..

[DoctorP]

I'm not saying this is your case, but many people just do not understand how to properly fill out the OF612 or the SF for a government job. They will be all kinds of qualified, but don't fill out the paperwork correctly and they never make it past the screening...add to that many people are absolute "rocks" when it comes to applications and resumes.

[Black Orchid]

well maybe thats my problem am i supposed to put something specific on the application?

well how fair is that good ol' boy system if there are ppl that are qualified for the job but someone else gets it because of who they know? :(

[DougP]

good ol' boy system isn't fair.. not really suppose to be. Its not what employers go by really when it comes to hiring but it can help. Like if a position was opening in a company and the boss was looking for a good candidate to hire he my ask one of his other employees if they know someone who might be good for the position. Like FD says it can work for you or against you. Its worked against me in the past but has just now worked in my favor. I know I'm very qualified for this position and there weren't any other guys out there with TS clearances applying for it from my knowledge. But knowing some people in that company did help me get my foot in the door. Recommendations are always good.

As far as you go, I'm not sure if the GOB system is going to work for you. Heck its not an actual system anyways, just an urban legend around here.:)
Oh and when you're filling out a resume try and tailor your resume as far as skills and abilities to what the job requirements actually are. Some of the jobs out there won't really require much specific tailoring, just list your employment history, skills etc. A lot of jobs are run collectively by an organization, AAFES, MCCS, MWR, etc. They have their own websites that you can go to and fill out information and create your own resume using a resume builder program. Its very easy this way and can make applying for jobs on Okinawa a whole lot easier. Here are some sites to check out.

http://cpol.army.mil/ (Army civilian job listings to include MWR employment)
https://www.mccsokinawa.com/jobws/index.asp (MCCS jobs)
http://odin.aafes.com/employment/default.asp (AAFES careers site)
http://www.usajobs.gov/ (federal employment website)

All of them should have the tools available through their site for you to create a resume and use it to apply for work through them online. Takes a few minutes but its pretty easy. The final ingredient in all of this of course is a little bit of luck and a pinch of patience... well better make that a few tablespoons of patience.:)

[Black Orchid]

good ol' boy system isn't fair.. not really suppose to be. Its not what employers go by really when it comes to hiring but it can help. Like if a position was opening in a company and the boss was looking for a good candidate to hire he my ask one of his other employees if they know someone who might be good for the position. Like FD says it can work for you or against you. Its worked against me in the past but has just now worked in my favor. I know I'm very qualified for this position and there weren't any other guys out there with TS clearances applying for it from my knowledge. But knowing some people in that company did help me get my foot in the door. Recommendations are always good.

As far as you go, I'm not sure if the GOB system is going to work for you. Heck its not an actual system anyways, just an urban legend around here.:)
Oh and when you're filling out a resume try and tailor your resume as far as skills and abilities to what the job requirements actually are. Some of the jobs out there won't really require much specific tailoring, just list your employment history, skills etc. A lot of jobs are run collectively by an organization, AAFES, MCCS, MWR, etc. They have their own websites that you can go to and fill out information and create your own resume using a resume builder program. Its very easy this way and can make applying for jobs on Okinawa a whole lot easier. Here are some sites to check out.

http://cpol.army.mil/ (Army civilian job listings to include MWR employment)
https://www.mccsokinawa.com/jobws/index.asp (MCCS jobs)
http://odin.aafes.com/employment/default.asp (AAFES careers site)
http://www.usajobs.gov/ (federal employment website)

All of them should have the tools available through their site for you to create a resume and use it to apply for work through them online. Takes a few minutes but its pretty easy. The final ingredient in all of this of course is a little bit of luck and a pinch of patience... well better make that a few tablespoons of patience.:)



thanx for the links and the info.. much appreciated

[brokekorean]

The CDC are one of the highest paying PT jobs.

[FDokinawa]

and who dosnt love military brats!! :D

[Black Orchid]

im sorry to say but.. i can deal with my children but not so much a lot of other peoples children, so workin there not really an option.. plus i had a friend who worked there too a hear a lot of drama and poliics goes on there , ut i guess where does it not at any workplace?

[okisteve]

What's CDC? Children's Detention Center?

[Black Orchid]

stands for child development center

[chiefk]

What's CDC? Children's Detention Center?

Baby sitters for active duty parents.

[scarlett belle]

I was turned down there about 6 years ago...they said that I didn't have "enough experience". I had been doing that same job for 14 years! WTF? Then I realized that it was probably my goof for not doing a good enough job on the 612 that I filled out. Oh well...I wound up at a better place anyway. Still, I would have enjoyed that job!

I often saw overly qualified applicants "brushed aside" for the golf buddy. :thumbdown: As someone said in another post... sometimes it's who you know. Wonderful that you found something better though! :thumbup:

[scarlett belle]

yes.. honestly i have felt that way i dont really understand how it really works here.. but it is really frustrating, and yes it seems unfair as well. what is a good ol boy system? and its hard to even make my resume look good to even get in the door when the last time i worked was a year ago at my last duty station. of

"good ole boy" or "networking" is getting out there so people can put a face with your name. Some of the best ways to do that are getting involved in school activities, volunteer at the hospital (check with your family support they always have a list). Even if you only get out a few hours every day, it lets prospective employers get a feel for your work ethic, your charisma! :D When you're fun to be around, people want to keep you around...and they'll search out your name on the job list.

Also...pump up your resume. Even though you haven't worked, look at the volunteer opportunities, CLEP college courses, church activities, school involvement...whatever you can get your hands on. Sometimes it's not what you have; but what you make of it. :D

[Denise]

I would like to know do civilians work on the Kadena military base

[Sex Wax]

I am a prior active duty Marine who now works as a civilian on all Military Bases on Okinawa at one point or another. Athough primarily on Marine Bases

[Brand_X]

MCCS is probably not the way to go. Call the HRO and they will tell you that "Island Wide" jobs you already have to have sofa to apply. The only way to get a job directly from them is to find a job posting that says "World Wide" Thats what they say. What they do and say can be two diffrent things though.

Its not impossible to get a job but they dont make it easy. They would rather hire Dependants. I would search GS jobs and try to get hired form the states if you want a directly federal job rather than a contractor job.

[kvdenman]

also try usajobs.gov

[jrademacher]

there is definitely a need to have a job posting board for okinawa. there are too many people looking for jobs and too many jobs open. there is all this beaurocratic jibbery ju that prevents people from getting these jobs. a job board could be a start in the right direction. perhaps we could start a campaign as well.

[knowie]

I am very interested to learn more about options other than teaching English. Any leads or info most appreciated.
Where are you located? Are you still looking for work? I am looking for part-time English teachers (Naha and Itoman).

[ramensoldier]

I'm actually planning to head out to Okinawa this coming January on a quest to find full-time employment and sponsorship (whether it be from the Okinawan gvt. or SOFA), and while I am still doing my own research on job opportunities over there, I figured it wouldn't hurt to post here. I just graduated last spring from Cal Poly Pomona with a BS in Business Administration: E-Buisness, and I've got about 4 years of professional experience working with children K-12. If any of you have any tips or suggestions or possible opportunities, don't hesitate to let me know! Thanks a bunch!

[RenaissanceMan]

I'm actually planning to head out to Okinawa this coming January on a quest to find full-time employment and sponsorship (whether it be from the Okinawan gvt. or SOFA), and while I am still doing my own research on job opportunities over there, I figured it wouldn't hurt to post here. I just graduated last spring from Cal Poly Pomona with a BS in Business Administration: E-Buisness, and I've got about 4 years of professional experience working with children K-12. If any of you have any tips or suggestions or possible opportunities, don't hesitate to let me know! Thanks a bunch!

You could always be a MLC Japanese worker if you have Japanese residency. There is one American, though I have never met this legendary man, who is an MLC. You just have to be the best qualified of course.

[hankypanky]

You could always be a MLC Japanese worker if you have Japanese residency. There is one American, though I have never met this legendary man, who is an MLC. You just have to be the best qualified of course.

Or in the olden days, have a brother in law in the force who will speak up for you and pay Y50,000:smile4:

[jrademacher]

If you can, interview with DODDS stateside and you will get incredible benefits, including them paying for you to go over to Japan with your household goods.

[chplraj]

DOD contractor with 4 consecutive years inside Iraq..demobilized on Aug. 11..looking for mechanic/vehicles Army/AF in Okinawa. Email me.