SSW Wood Industry

Build practical skills in Japan's wood industry

SSW Wood Industry prepares you for wood-processing work through the Tokutei Ginou route. The field focuses on manufacturing at processing facilities, turning logs into timber materials and wood products.

Eligible industries include sawmilling, plywood/LVL, laminated timber and precut components. This is distinct from the forestry field, which concerns work in forests. See the Japan Immigration Services Agency's wood industry overview.

Work and working environment

Depending on the factory and offered position, duties may involve preparing materials, cutting or processing timber, and checking production output. A placement must fit the wood industry field; the employer's job description specifies the actual duties.

Reading dimensions carefully, maintaining consistent quality and understanding work instructions are useful foundations. You also need to follow operating procedures, protective-equipment requirements and safety instructions around machinery and timber. The Forestry Agency's field guidance explains industry coverage and acceptance requirements.

What to prepare

• Evidence of Japanese ability through JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 or above, under the applicable requirements.
• A pass in the wood industry SSW skills examination for the normal examination route.
• Readiness for document screening, interviews and the receiving employer's requirements.
• A disciplined approach to safety and a willingness to learn production processes.

Examination exemptions for certain technical-intern backgrounds need to be checked against the applicant's records and applicable rules. Dates, locations and application procedures come from the examination organiser; read the wood industry examination information before planning an application.

Prepare with Nakamura Study Japan

Begin with a consultation about your profile and experience. Our team helps identify language, examination-preparation and document needs. When your profile matches available recruitment requirements, the process moves to employer matching and interview preparation.

We support administrative and pre-departure preparation within the agreed service scope. Passing an examination does not automatically secure a job or visa; employer selection and immigration review remain separate stages.

Pay, benefits and programme costs

Pay, allowances, working hours, placement location and accommodation follow the employer's offer and contract. Confirm deductions and overtime terms before accepting an offer. Preparation costs and the scope of our support are explained during consultation according to your needs.

Start with your profile

Tell us about your education, wood-processing or factory experience, Japanese ability and existing certificates. Use the consultation button to discuss your readiness and the next steps for SSW Wood Industry.