Top 132 Careers And 8 Positions in Japanese

At a Glance

Yuka

When I introduced myself in Japanese class, I had no idea how to say my job title!

Rei

Learning job vocabulary is essential for self-introductions, job hunting, and everyday conversation. Let’s cover the most important ones!

Yuka

I also want to know the company rank words — like how do you say “department head” or “team leader” in Japanese?

Rei

Great question! We’ll cover ranks, professions by industry, and all the key job-action verbs you need. Let’s go!

Corporate Ranks and Positions (役職)

Understanding company hierarchy is important for using proper keigo with the right people. Here are the main corporate positions from top to bottom:

When speaking to or about someone with a rank, Japanese speakers attach the rank title directly after the family name: 田中部長 (Tanaka-buchou), 鈴木社長 (Suzuki-shachou). This is equivalent to “Manager Tanaka” in English — and it is important to get the rank right.

Medical and Health Professions

Legal, Finance, and Professional Services

Education, Public Service, and Technical Fields

Job Action Vocabulary

Knowing these verbs and nouns lets you talk about careers in action — getting hired, changing jobs, being promoted, and more.

Quick Quiz

Test yourself! Match the description to the Japanese word:

1. The person at the top of the company. (______)
2. A nurse at a hospital. (______)
3. Someone who fights fires. (______)
4. Changing from one job to another. (______)
5. A department head or general manager. (______)

Answers: 1. 社長 2. 看護師 3. 消防士 4. 転職 5. 部長

Practice with a Real Teacher

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