Recruitment

Translator/Diplomatic Clearance Officer/Researcher– LE4 – Defence – Riyadh

Job Summary

The successful applicant will join as a locally engaged staff member within the Australian Embassy, Riyadh.

Please be advised that the Australian Embassy, Riyadh does not assist with relocation. Any costs associated with taking up the position would be the responsibility of the successful candidate.

About The Australian Department of Defence

Defence’s primary role is to defend Australia and its national interests, promote security and stability, and support the Australian community as directed by the Government. The National Defence Strategy sets out the Government’s approach to address Australia’s most significant strategic risks based on the concept of National Defence. The adoption of National Defence will see the Australian Defence Force transition to an integrated, focused force with a more concentrated approach to its international engagement. Defence works closely with other Government agencies and international partners to shape Australia’s strategic environment.  

About the position

The Translator/Diplomatic Clearance Officer/Researcher position monitors opensource information in Arabic and English and provides translating and interpreting services for the Defence Section at the Australian Embassy in Riyadh.  This position also manages Diplomatic Clearance requests for aircraft and ships, liaises with external stakeholders in support of military operations and activities in the Middle East, and provides protocol advice as required.

Key responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to:

• Monitor and analyse defence and security related opensource information in Arabic and English to maintain an understanding of emerging regional issues, policy developments and Australia’s interests, producing information summaries and advice as required by the Defence Attaché
• Prepare a range of high-quality written materials including briefings and notes
• Translate (Arabic/English and English/Arabic) all inwards and outwards correspondence relating to Defence such as Third Person Notes, official letters and more with accuracy and cultural nuance.
• Manage and monitor Diplomatic Clearance requests for aircrafts and ships including the preparation, dispatch and follow-up of diplomatic notes, letters and cables, maintaining accurate records and documentation such as the ADS-Riyadh Diplomatic clearance register and ensuring timely submission of annual clearance requests to accredited nations.
• Liaise with key Diplomatic and Defence stakeholders, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, foreign Embassies and High Commissions, accredited country ministries and relevant ADF and departmental elements to support Diplomatic clearance processes and broader Defence related matters including military movements.
• Support the planning and delivery of official events and visits, providing interpreter services for the Defence section during meetings, visits and events as required.
• Engage in official calls to Arabic speaking officials to ensure clarity of information and encourage responsiveness to office requirements.
• Manage a contact database, including key leaders and interlocutors, with biographies and relevant details of correspondence and interactions.
• Provide administrative and financial support to the DA and Defence Office manager as required, maintaining an organised filing system for all incoming and outgoing correspondence requiring translation and ensure timely forwarding of completed translations to the DA and Office Manager for action
• Perform secondary driving duties as directed by the DA and Office Manager, including maintenance of Armoured Vehicle (AV) qualification and currency.

Selection Criteria

• High-level Arabic and English written and oral communication skills and a demonstrated ability to translate and interpret between English and Arabic.
• Sound regional and cultural knowledge and demonstrated ability to enhance this knowledge through the conduct of research and analysis, and ability to provide advice.
• High-level of initiative and ability to work independently within a small team.
• Ability to prioritise and meet tight deadlines.
• Sound interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective stakeholder relationships.
• Strong capacity to exercise discretion and judgement.
• Ability to conduct Armoured Vehicle training and maintain three yearly currency.
• Ability to work flexibly, independently and in a diverse team environment.
• Possession of a valid Saudi driver’s licence.

The Human Resources Section based in the Australian Embassy, Riyadh is responsible for managing all recruitment processes. To apply, please submit the following to [email protected] with the job title and your name in the subject line:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining personal details, relevant work experience, educational qualifications (university degree is required) and skills (maximum 2 pages).
• A 500-word statement that addresses the above selection criteria (please include succinct, relevant examples that support your application).
• Contact details for two referees.
• Confirmation of your current or intended status in Saudi Arabia, such as Saudi identification (Saudi nationals), copy of iqama (temporary residents), or a copy of your passport (for those not situated in Saudi Arabia).

Short-listed applicants will be contacted directly for an interview and a translation assessment.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds who share our values.