Japan Engineer District – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the Japan Engineer District (JED)?
A: JED is one of four districts in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pacific Ocean Division. Headquartered at Camp Zama, Japan, JED provides engineering, construction, and technical support for U.S. forces, their families, and Department of Defense civilians across Japan.

Q2: When was JED established?
A: JED was officially established on May 15, 1972, though its origins trace back to U.S. military engineer efforts in Japan after World War II.

Q3: What does JED do?
A: JED delivers design, construction, and infrastructure projects that support the U.S. military mission in Japan, strengthen the U.S.–Japan alliance, improve quality of life for servicemembers and civilians, and contribute to regional stability across the Indo-Pacific.

Q4: How big is JED’s workforce?
A: JED started with 105 employees in 1972 and has grown to more than 460 today, with both Japanese and U.S. professionals working side by side with the Government of Japan.

Q5: What makes JED unique?
A: JED manages the largest Host Nation–funded design and construction program in the world, delivering world-class facilities that serve as a foundation for joint U.S.–Japan defense efforts.

Q6: Where does JED operate?
A: JED’s area of responsibility stretches 1,550 miles from northern Japan to Okinawa, making it one of the largest U.S. Army Corps of Engineers districts geographically.

Q7: How can I apply for jobs at JED?
A: U.S. civilian positions with JED are advertised on USAJOBS.gov. Local national (Japanese citizen) positions are announced through the Civilian Human Resources Office (CHRO) in Japan. Interested applicants should check both platforms regularly for open opportunities.

Q8: What is JED’s motto?
A: “Bridging Nations, Building the Future.” This reflects JED’s role in strengthening the U.S.–Japan alliance while delivering engineering solutions that support security and quality of life.