Working As An Engineer In Japan Like My Father

Inspired by My Father, I Chased My Childhood Dream 

Working as an engineer in Japan, like my father, has been my lifelong dream. When I was younger, I used to watch my father fix broken machines and repair vehicles. He always looked calm and confident when handling tools, and I admired how he made complicated things seem simple. Even though I didn’t fully understand what he was doing, I was fascinated. To me, he was more than just a technician—he was a builder, a problem solver, and a creator. 

University Life and the Turning Point 

To chase my dream of working as an engineer in Japan, I enrolled in Thanlyin Technological University, majoring in mechanical engineering. Life as a student had its ups and downs. The pandemic made things even harder. Our university was shut down for nearly two years. During that time, I started to reflect on my future. What kind of engineer do I want to become? Where can I truly grow? 

Some of my senior classmates had gone abroad for work, and many chose Japan. They often shared stories about Japanese factories, their precise technology, their teamwork, and their strong discipline.

I was very inspired. I thought to myself, “If I really want to become a good engineer, I should learn from a country that leads in manufacturing and innovation.” That’s when I seriously began thinking about working in Japan. 

In 2020, I decided to start learning Japanese from scratch. It was not easy at all—especially since I wasn’t a language major—but I was determined. I studied through online lessons, watched Japanese videos, and practiced every day. Eventually, I passed the JLPT N3 and am now preparing to take N2. It’s still a challenge, but I enjoy it because I know it’s helping me get closer to my dream. 

Taking a Big Step: My FAST OFFER Experience 

After building up my language skills, I applied to the FAST OFFER International program. FAST OFFER International was key to helping me reach my goal of becoming an engineer in Japan. Before joining, I had motivation but lacked interview experience and confidence.  

I was nervous at first. I didn’t know what kind of company I would be matched with or whether my Japanese would be good enough. But I reminded myself why I started this journey—to grow as an engineer and follow in my father’s footsteps. 

Their matching process was efficient, connecting me with a company that suited my goals and reducing the stress of job hunting. FAST OFFER provided personalized coaching that taught me how to communicate well in Japanese and present my skills clearly.  

Before the interview, I did a lot of preparation. I researched the company, practiced common questions, and reviewed technical terms in Japanese. The interview was nerve-wracking, but I gave it everything I had. I spoke honestly about my background, and that working as an engineer in Japan is my dream. A few days later, I received the result: I had passed! 

That moment was unforgettable. It was my first job interview with a Japanese company, and I succeeded. I felt incredibly proud and relieved. I immediately told my parents. My father didn’t say much, but I saw the happiness in his eyes. He knew how much I had worked for this, and I could tell he was proud, too. 

Looking Ahead: Working As An Engineer In Japan

Getting the offer is just the beginning. I’m excited, but I also know the real challenge starts now. I want to work hard, learn from experienced Japanese engineers, and improve both my technical and communication skills. I believe that working in Japan will help me become a well-rounded professional, not only in terms of knowledge but also in mindset and teamwork. 

I’m especially interested in how Japanese companies maintain high-quality standards in their production. I want to understand their systems and bring some of those ideas back to Myanmar someday. My long-term goal is to contribute to developing better technology and infrastructure in my home country. We have many talented people, but we need more systems, processes, and guidance to grow. I hope that one day, I can lead a team and share what I’ve learned abroad. 

I also want to keep improving my Japanese. Language is the key to understanding culture, and I want to build good relationships with my colleagues and the local community. 

A Message to Others – Never Give Up on Your Dream 

Looking back, I feel thankful for every step I took—even the hard ones. I started with a simple dream: working as an engineer in Japan like my father. That dream led me to study hard, face challenges, and finally step into a new world. I’ve never been to Japan before, but I’m ready to learn, adapt, and grow. 

To anyone who has a dream but feels unsure, please don’t give up. You don’t need perfect Japanese or a perfect resume to start. What you need is the courage to try and the effort to keep going. I began with no Japanese knowledge, no overseas experience, and many doubts. But with the right mindset and support, I found my path. 

I know my father will continue to be my role model, but now I also want to become someone that future engineers can look up to. One day, I hope to inspire others in the same way he inspired me. This journey is not just for me—it’s also for my family, my country, and the younger generation who are dreaming just like I did. 

FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: 5 Things To Prepare For Working In Japan As An Engineer

Thinking of becoming an engineer in Japan? Great news – ASIA to JAPAN is constantly looking for engineering talents! If you’re considering making the move and starting your career there, here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to do to kick off your journey.

Sharpen Your Skills with Relevant Software

While not always mandatory, having expertise in industry-specific software can definitely give your application a competitive edge. Tools like AutoCAD (especially for mechanical and manufacturing engineers) are often used, and having certifications or strong proficiency can help you stand out. Even after getting a job offer, some of the candidates we’ve worked with have been advised to brush up on their software skills before officially starting their roles in Japan.

Level Up Your Japanese

Not being highly fluent in Japanese isn’t a deal-breaker, but you’ll need enough language skills to express yourself and convey your thoughts clearly in interviews, communicate effectively at work, and follow instructions. Most employers look for a proficiency level around JLPT N3-N2, which is usually enough for engineers. On top of that, you’ll need to learn some engineering-specific Japanese, including terminology related to circuits, machinery, and technical processes.

Prepare Your Job Application Documents

Job hunting in Japan can be quite a long process, so make sure your documents are in top shape. The most important document is the rirekisho (a Japanese-style resume). This should include a recent photo, your educational background, any relevant experience (like internships), and a brief overview of how your past roles have shaped your engineering skills. You can also add your commute time, your interests, and, if applicable, any special preferences like a hybrid work setup. Here’s a guide on how to write a Japanese resume.

Work Visa and Legal Requirements

Once you land a job offer, your new company will sponsor your visa. For engineers, visa validity can vary, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years.

Your employer will also help you apply for a Certificate of Eligibility, which you’ll need to submit to your local Japanese embassy to process your visa. The whole visa process can take about 1 week to a month — while it’s a bit of a wait, it’s well worth it in the end!

Understanding Japan’s Work Culture

Japanese work culture is unique, and understanding it can make a big difference. One key aspect is keigo, or honorific language, which you’ll need to use to address colleagues and superiors properly. Another is meishi koukan – the formal etiquette around exchanging business cards. These small but significant gestures can help you build positive relationships and avoid cultural missteps. Keep in mind: Even if your work revolves around machines and tech, you’ll still be engaging with people regularly. Learn more about Japanese work culture here.