1. Must already be living in Japan and able to work legally (we can sponsor or transfer visa sponsorship if necessary, but we are not recruiting from overseas)
2. Native-level English proficiency
3. University degree (Bachelor’s or higher)
4. Experience working with children (at least 1 year of teaching experience or 2 years of related professional experience with young children)
5. Strong passion for early childhood education (ages 2–3)
6. Excellent communication skills and a cooperative, team-first mindset
7. Flexible and adaptable in a cross-cultural workplace
8. Willing to follow safeguarding standards and complete any required background checks
9. Reliable transportation for daily commuting: driver’s license + car/scooter preferred, or an electric bicycle (our campus is on top of a large hill and walking up daily is not advised)
10. Willing to commit for a minimum of two years (multi-year renewable contract)
11. A “team family” mindset: joining Hilltop means joining a close, supportive staff culture where we help each other and work as one team
Position
Early Childhood Educator (2–3 Year Old Class)
Hilltop International School, Kumamoto, Japan
Start date: April 2026
About Hilltop International School
Hilltop International School is an established English-immersion kindergarten in Kumamoto with 18 years of experience and approximately 100 students. We are known for a warm, professional atmosphere, strong teamwork, and a high standard of early childhood education.
We also operate Kumamoto Christian International School (KCI), our primary division opening in 2026. Hilltop itself is not a Christian school. However, we respect individual faith backgrounds, and staff are welcome to share their faith appropriately and respectfully in the context of relationships and personal conversation.
Main Responsibilities
1. Teach and care for a 2–3 year old class in an English-immersion environment
2. Create a safe, warm, and supportive classroom where children feel secure and motivated to learn
3. Inspire and engage young learners through hands-on, creative, and exploratory teaching methods
4. Support children’s growth in foundational areas (language, social development, routines, play skills, early learning habits)
5. Work collaboratively with a diverse and international team to deliver consistent, high-quality education
6. Participate in training and professional development with guidance from experienced teachers
7. Provide some after-school child minding as needed
8. Communicate professionally with families and staff to support student progress and classroom consistency
Working Conditions
1. Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week
2. Salary: ¥270,000 to ¥290,000 per month (depending on experience), with potential growth
3. Transportation reimbursement (home to school)
4. Paid time off during Golden Week, Obon, Winter Break, Spring Break, and company-recognized national holidays (approximately 35–40 paid leave days total)
5. Regular performance reviews and supportive feedback
6. Support with housing search (housing and relocation costs are not covered by the school)
7. Visa sponsorship may be available for applicants already residing in Japan, depending on current status and eligibility
8. Opportunity for long-term employment and advancement
Why Kumamoto
Kumamoto is one of Kyushu’s most livable and welcoming cities, offering a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to nature and culture, including Kumamoto Castle, Mt. Aso, and hot springs. It is also significantly more affordable than major cities like Tokyo, making it an excellent place to settle and enjoy daily life in Japan.
How to Apply
Please apply by email with:
1. Resume/CV
2. Cover letter
3. Photo
861-8005, 熊本県, 熊本市, １８
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