The CIR job type is so vast, it is difficult to give an overview. Every CIR workplace will require a different type of work which can change from week to week. Your duties could include any of the following activities:
- Advising on, editing, and proof-reading publications
- Giving speeches or presentations
- Assisting with visitors from overseas
- Teaching language classes
- Translating documents
- Interpreting
- Working with tour guides
- Organising international exchange events
- Producing information for non-Japanese residents
- Visiting other countries to aid in international relations
- Making international phone calls
- School visits
- Participating in events and festivals, and fostering cross-cultural bonds with the community
- … and more!
We have taken shortened and paraphrased descriptions from the JET Programme General Information Handbook for your convenience:
Prefectural/Designated City CIR
You may work in the International Affairs Division of the Prefectural government, Regional Development or Planning Department, regional office, or Board of Education. You may also be assigned to another organisation such as an International Association. Your duties may include giving speeches, assisting with publications, translation and interpreting, assisting in matters concerning non-Japanese residents and visitors, and teaching language classes. Your help may be requested by people outside of your office and you may become a multilingual resource for the whole government office.
International Exchange Association CIR
CIRs who work in this environment are usually involved in events
concerning local non-Japanese residents. Your responsibilities may include working with tour guides and interpreters, producing foreign language newsletters and other publications, organising international exchange events, giving presentations about cultural differences and teaching foreign language classes.
Small City, Town, or Village CIR
These CIRs may be based in a Board of Education, the Planning, International Affairs or General Affairs Divisions of the local government, or sometimes in the office of the Mayor depending on their contracting organisation. Your duties may focus on outreach and cultural education with activities such as language and culture classes for the government or for the community, creating publications, school visits and public speeches. If your Contracting Organisation has strong international ties (or if you create them), then you may also correspond with overseas parties or receive visitors from abroad.
Check out the Area System to learn about where you are placed in more detail!