INTERPRETER/RESEARCH ASSISTANT JOB IN BEIJING (SCIENCE AND INNOVATION)
The New Zealand Embassy in Beijing is looking for a skilled and enthusiastic person to join its team as Interpreter/Research Assistantto the Counsellor, Science and innovation.
An interest or qualification in scienceand/or international trade would be useful but not essential.
This is a locally-employed staff (LES) position. The successful applicant will be required to pay their own return travel costs to Beijing. All accommodation, medical, taxation and other costs associated with living in China will be a personal responsibility.
Key tasks:
• Provide accurate interpretation (Chinese/English and English/Chinese) at official meetings and other functions.
• Translate official correspondence.
• Liaison with Chinese government departments and organisations.
• Assist with arranging visitor programmes and calls by New Zealand officials.
• Monitor Chinese information sources and provide prompt and accurate translations, reporting and analysis of economic and political developments in China.
• Support the Counsellor administratively by:
- liaising with China administration regarding visas, residence permits, and other requirements
- making travel arrangements
- organising meetings and transport
- setting up and maintaining office records and files
- assisting with budget setting and monitoring
- processing and recording expenses and invoices in conjunction with Embassy support staff
- dealing with accommodation lease and related issues
- preparation of presentations and reports
- liaising with Embassy support staff regarding services delivery, office equipment maintenance, and protocol
• Travel within China as required
• (A detailed job description will be provided)

Applications should include a covering letter, curriculum vitae (résumé) and a self-assessment against the following selection criteria:
• High degree of oral and written proficiency in both Mandarin Chinese (preferably a native speaker) and English.
• High degree of proficiency in Mandarin Chinese/English translation and interpretation. Previous working experience desirable.
• Hold a relevant tertiary qualification
• Demonstrate research and analytical skills.
• Well organised. Able to work independently and manage workloads to achieve objectives.
• Shows initiative. Able to independently progress work on delegated tasks.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills. Able to work effectively with other team members, flexible and adaptable.
• Be a person of good character (the successful applicant will undergo a security check).
• Developed computer skills (particularly MS Word, Internet explorer etc.).
• Familiar with the working environment in China, especially with the Chinese government system.
• Knowledge or experience of New Zealand an advantage.
Applicants that are shortlisted will be required to undertake interpretation, translation and written exercises as part of the selection process.