Are There Jobs on U.S. Military Bases in Japan?

If I move with my family to a military base in Japan, are there job opportunities for civilians like myself? I'm really curious about what kinds of roles might be available on base.

Absolutely, there are indeed job opportunities available to civilians on U.S. military bases across the world, including in Japan. There are a variety of roles that one can take up. These positions typically fall into a couple different categories:

1. The Department of Defense Schools: DoDDS oversees the operation of elementary and high schools on military bases around the world. If you are an educator or have experience in education administration, this could be a potential area to find work.

2. Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions: These positions are considered federal jobs but are funded by the revenue generated on base rather than taxpayer money. These roles often are within fitness centers, clubs, or outdoor recreation programs. They can also be within support services like human resources, marketing or financial management.

3. Exchange Services: Many bases have retail, food, and other service operations for military personnel and their families. Examples include commissaries (grocery stores), exchange stores (retail), and restaurants.

4. Contractor Opportunities: As a civilian, you might also find work as a contractor providing specialty services needed on the base, like telecommunications, construction, or logistics.

The exact roles and availability can differ from base to base and could depend on many factors such as the size of the base, operational needs, and the current staffing. Be sure to look for job postings on the base or contact the human resources office directly for the most accurate information. It's also crucial to understand that some of these positions may require obtaining a security clearance, involving background investigations. It is best to inquire about these specifics when applying.