Are you a software engineer seeking job opportunities in one of the world’s most vibrant cities? Tokyo is the place to look. With its thriving tech industry and bustling culture, Japan’s capital presents outstanding prospects for talented developers.
In this article, we’ll delve into the current landscape of IT jobs in Tokyo and provide valuable insights into salary expectations. Read on to discover how to unlock the full potential of Tokyo’s software engineering job market.
Tokyo Software Engineering Job Market Overview
The software engineering job market in Tokyo experiences consistent growth given to several factors. Here are just some of them:
- In 2016, the Japanese government made a significant effort to promote innovation and digital transformation across the country, particularly with the “Society 5.0” plan for the next 15 years. It aims to leverage tech advancements to build a sustainable, inclusive, and innovative society.
- Japan is also known for nurturing “sandboxes” to encourage experimentation and innovation.
- Bloomberg states that Japan ranks 2nd globally for R&D expenditures.
- The Japanese information and communications technology market has surpassed $449 billion in 2021 and, following the IMARC Group report, will reach over $476 billion in 2027.
Japan is investing in the future, and technology is an integral part of it. Because of that, many Japanese and international companies are looking to engage top talent to stay ahead of the curve. Some well-known organizations currently hiring in Tokyo include:
Rakuten
Amazon
Microsoft
Sony
Apple
PayPay
IBM
As you can see, Tokyo is the perfect destination to get a software engineer position. But how much can you expect to earn in this city? Keep reading to learn more about Tokyo software engineer jobs in demand and the average salaries of IT specialists.
Software Engineering Jobs Available in Tokyo
What are some software engineer jobs Tokyo you can opt for? There’s a wide range of those, each requiring specific skill sets, but here are the most common ones:
Front-end developer
These specialists take over the user-facing side of web and mobile applications. Some tools they should be proficient in include programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and frameworks like React and Angular. Strong design skills and the ability to create visually appealing user interfaces are also critical for this role.
Back-end developer
These professionals are responsible for creating the server-side logic and databases that power web and mobile apps. They are typically knowledgeable about programming languages like Java, Python, and Ruby and frameworks like Django and Ruby on Rails. Some of their expert abilities include database management and security skills.
Full-stack developer
These experts combine front-end and back-end developers’ skills and knowledge. It means they are proficient in multiple programming languages and frameworks, such as JavaScript, React, Java, and Python.
Data engineer
These specialists are responsible for designing and building the infrastructure that enables data collection, storage, and analysis. They typically use Python and SQL programming languages and Hadoop and Spark big data technologies.
DevOps engineer
These professionals manage the development and deployment of software apps. They leverage tools like Git, Jenkins, and Docker and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure. Other abilities necessary for this role include automation skills and working closely with development and operations teams.
On top of these basic roles, there are a lot of niche-specific IT jobs Tokyo. For example, software engineers with expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, or cloud computing can effortlessly build a career in Japan.
Average Software Engineer Salary in Tokyo
Now, let’s get real and discuss one of the most critical things everyone wants to know when considering an IT job in Japan: the average software engineer salary Tokyo. If you aim to move to this city or are just curious about how much you can make there, we have some data to satisfy your curiosity.
- As per Glassdoor, the average annual software engineer salary Tokyo is ¥8,000,000, which translates to about $59,502.
- According to PayScale, the average salary for a software engineer in Tokyo is ¥4,934,365 per year, which is approximately $36,696.
- Talent.com indicates that the average Tokyo software engineer salary is ¥4,020,000 annually, corresponding to roughly $29,893.
It’s important to note that salaries vary widely depending on the engineer’s experience level and industry. Talent.com states that an entry-level specialist may expect to make $26,439 annually, while an expert with 10+ years of background can earn $43,996 and beyond.
Tips for Landing a Software Engineer Job in Tokyo
If it’s decided and you hop on a career search in Tokyo, you should do it right. What are the tips and best practices to help you land an IT job in Japan for foreigners? Leverage the following ones:
- Build a strong resume. The resume creates a first impression on potential employers, so you should show your best sides, skills, experience, and relevant projects.
- Learn Japanese. While not always required, as there are many IT jobs in Tokyo for English speakers, having a basic understanding of Japanese can be a significant benefit over other candidates.
- Network. Attend networking events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and try to make contacts within the software engineering industry.
- Research your dream company. Before applying for a position, ensure you study your employer. That will help you understand how your skills and experience align with the company’s culture, mission, and values.
- Prepare for interviews. Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but preparation can help ease your nerves. Research common software or data engineer interview questions and practice your responses.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing a software engineering job in Tokyo.
Pursue a Software Engineering Career in Tokyo
Becoming a software engineer Tokyo is a promising endeavor. Considering Japan’s thriving job market and increased demand for such specialists — you’ve got it all covered. On top of that, you’ll be pleased to get a competitive salary and live in one of the world’s most technically advanced countries.