Australian Embassy
Vietnam

Senior Research Assistant - Defence section

 

The Embassy of Australia in Hanoi is looking for qualified individual for the position of Senior Research Assistant for the Defence Section.

The position reports directly to the Defence Attaché, Defence Section and be responsible for conducting research and analysis on Defence issues; managing and coordinating defence visits and other tasks, including interpreting and translation; and providing assistance to the Defence Attaché with liaison with the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA).

Applicants should have previous experience working in a similar role in an international organisation. This position requires excellent bilingual communications skills, initiative, and a strong command of computer skills in Microsoft Office packages. Applicants should have a strong analytical skills, a demonstrated ability to conduct research independently, and be able to work well in team and be flexible and adaptable. In addition, understanding of local Military structures and processes and a good knowledge of Australian Defence Force (ADF) policies and practices, knowledge of Vietnam’s and Australia’s defence systems, and an awareness of Australia’s involvement in Vietnam are desirable attributes.

The successful applicant will be employed on a full-time basis for an initial period of 12 months. The monthly gross salary will be between VND39,500,000 and VND46,600,000 depending on skills and experience.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for this position must include:

  • A written statement outlining the applicant’s abilities and directly addressing the requirements of the position (no more than two pages typed);
  • A curriculum vitae (no more than two pages typed); and
  • Details of two referees who may be contacted if necessary.

Applications should be emailed as a single file in Microsoft Word or PDF formats only to [email protected] by 5:00pm (Hanoi Time) on 15 May 2017.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The key responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Conduct complex research projects on Defence issues and develop high level briefs.  Undertake media monitoring and translation of news articles.
  • Liaise with MOD and other agencies and coordinate engagement with VPA.
  • Ships Visits – Coordinate visit with local government, port authorities, ships agent, VPN, RAN, and consular department.  Organise local activities including visits, sporting activities and high level calls. 
  • Aircraft transit - Coordinate visit with Airport authorities, ground services, customs and immigration.  Arrange flight and diplomatic clearances, transport, accommodation, emergency repair and servicing, and all payments.
  • Provide high level interpretation and translation services comprising complex military terminology.
  • Draft notes and official correspondence on behalf of the Defence Section.
  • Accompany High Level Defence officers on visits as required.
  • Advise on cultural and protocol issues to promote the relationship between the two countries.
  • Liaise with MoD officials and other authorities on Defence issues.
  • Disseminate information and materials from the Defence Section.
  • Brief Vietnamese Defence Delegations on the administrative process required to visit Australia (including visa applications, medical requirements, etc)
  • Arrange appropriate documentation for DIBP to enable visas to be granted to delegates visiting Australia
  • Manage the preparations for high level visits to and from Australia, including coordinating arrangements for meetings, accommodation, transportation and Visa's, etc.
  • Provide administrative and other support to the Defence Section within the Australian Embassy – Vietnam.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • Fluency in spoken and written English and Vietnamese languages;
  • Initiative, astuteness and strong analytical skills;
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct research independently;
  • Ability to work well in a team and to be flexible and adaptable;
  • Relevant experience in similar positions or fields;

Highly desirable attributes:

  • Interpretation and translation skills and experience;
  • A proven track record of negotiating positive outcomes with local government authorities on military issues;
  • Strong understanding of local Military structures and processes and a good knowledge of ADF policies and practices;
  • Knowledge of Vietnam’s and Australia’s defence systems;
  • Strong command of computer skills in Microsoft Office packages;
  • Well-developed and proven organisational skills;
  • Knowledge of Australia and Australia’s involvement in Vietnam.

THE EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER