Australian Embassy
China

Vacancy – Research and Program Officer (LE4), DAWR

The Australian Embassy Beijing seeks applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the position of Research and Program Officer (Agriculture) (LE4) with the Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources on a permanent basis.

Please see the attached for the position description and selection criteria. We are seeking high quality written applications.

 

How to apply

Your application, written in English, must include:

  • A Statement of Claims for the position separately addressing each of the selection criteria (maximum 2 pages); and
  • A Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages); and
  • Contact details for two work-related referees, including current supervisor.

Applications should be submitted in writing by email to the Human Resources Section of the Australian Embassy, Beijing at: [email protected].

The closing date for applications is on Friday, 10 February 2017.  Applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.

Applications that do not address the selection criteria will not be considered.

For further information about this position, please contact [email protected].

Please note that only applicants short-listed for interview will receive a written reply. If you have not received any communication from the Human Resources Section within four weeks after the close of application, please consider your application unsuccessful. Thank you for your understanding and your interest in working at the Australian Embassy.

 

Selection Criteria

Applicants should address all six (6) of the selection criteria below, clearly outlining their claims and specific experience that makes them suitable for this position (maximum 2 pages). 

  • A demonstrated ability to communicate with high-level of fluency in both Mandarin and English (verbal and written), and strong abilities in both translation and interpretation of technical terminology in a professional environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage a busy workload with competing priorities in a team environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and good office administrative skills. 
  • Demonstrated competence in the use of computer programs (in particular, the latest Microsoft Office suite).
  • Familiarity with the Australian and Chinese Governments’ agriculture trade policy goals, and knowledge of the agricultural and biosecurity relationship between Australia and China.
  • Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline are desirable, with a preference for graduate studies in an international field or similar.

     

Agency

Department of Agriculture and Water Resources

Position number

PNBJ5-002

Title

Research and Program Officer (Agriculture)

Classification

LE4

Section

Agriculture

Reports to (title)

Counsellor Agriculture and / or senior Locally Engaged Staff

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources

The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources leads the development of policy advice and provides services to improve the productivity, competitiveness and sustainability of agriculture, fisheries, forestry and related industries as well as to help people and goods move in and out of Australia while managing the risks to the environment and animal, plant and human health.

The Department has a network of overseas officers to help maintain and expand market access for Australia’s agricultural exports and to manage the agricultural relationship with key trading partners.

The Department works closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and other Australian Government agencies as part of a whole of government approach to advance Australia’s global, regional and bilateral interests.

 

About the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources – Beijing, China

The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources at the Australian Embassy in Beijing currently consists of a small team that facilitates trade in agricultural products, provides advice on the Chinese agriculture market, and builds relationships with relevant Chinese agricultural agencies and industry.

 

About the position

The role of Research and Program Officer works to support the Counsellor (Agriculture) – Policy or senior Locally Engaged Staff to develop and maintain strong working relationships with Chinese government officials to maintain and improve the trade of Australian agricultural products into China and Chinese agricultural products into Australia.

 

The key responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

  • Under supervision, provide bilingual administrative support to the Counsellor and / or senior Locally Engaged Staff, including liaising and building relationships (at appropriate levels) with Chinese ministries and official organisations.
  • Distribute correspondence and information, and manage meeting appointments with stakeholders.
  • Provide interpretation/translation and research support on agriculture issues, often with tight deadlines.
  • Assist in responding to enquiries and calls on issues such as bilateral agricultural trade and import/export administration and requirements.
  • Assist with the preparation and conduct of programs for visiting government officials, including ministers, and Australian business representatives.
  • Using Chinese and English sources; provide research support on matters relating to Australia-China agriculture trade by collecting, analysing and evaluating information.
  • Undertake office and stationary supply duties as directed by the Counsellor or senior Locally Engaged Staff.
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with relevant stakeholders.

 

Qualifications/Experience

  • A demonstrated ability to communicate with high-level of fluency in both Mandarin and English (verbal and written), and strong abilities in both translation and interpretation of technical terminology in a professional environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage a busy workload with competing priorities in a team environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and good office administrative skills. 
  • Demonstrated competence in the use of computer programs (in particular, the latest Microsoft Office suite).
  • Familiarity with the Australian and Chinese Governments’ agriculture trade policy goals, and knowledge of the agricultural and biosecurity relationship between Australia and China.
  • Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline are desirable, with a preference for graduate studies in an international field or similar