Job Discussion Forums

PittsburghSound · Joined: 27 Aug 2014 Posts: 103 Location: Colombia

I'm pretty sure I need to show some more patience. But I am wondering if it is still too early to find February/March public university jobs. I've sent out insane amounts of emails and only received a few replies, and those replies were interested in having me do a late start for this present term.

Surely these jobs should start appearing soon, right?

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

I have been wondering about this too. A co-worker who is also planning on switching schools said he was working with a recruiter and there were several openings. Sent thw recruiter an email today but too late I think. Will post again here if I have any progress the next couple of days.

PittsburghSound · Joined: 27 Aug 2014 Posts: 103 Location: Colombia

Sounds good, jm. I, too, will update this thread with any progress I make. I really believe we should start hearing something soon, although you have an advantage over me since you're in China and I'm here in the U.S.

Perhaps we could unofficially turn this thread into a February/March job search thread where people can talk about the processes they are going through and any progress they are making. Now that the National Day holiday has passed, anyone looking for work in China should be ready to jump into the job search.

Non Sequitur · Joined: 23 May 2010 Posts: 4724 Location: China

I think it is a bit soon as Semester One has only been going since for 6-odd weeks.
Not surprised that school responses are about current vacancies.
As recently mentioned on another thread, Chinese have little regard for reputation and don't feel the need to give you a positive impression.
Some schools which have ignored your recent emails, will pop up in late November and start a recruitment conversation for the SPRING (sorry for letting Fall appear here) Semester.
OP a high enquiry work rate is good. It isn't wasted.
If you only want one semester's work you may not be favoured for that reason.

PittsburghSound · Joined: 27 Aug 2014 Posts: 103 Location: Colombia

Thanks for the reply, NS.

I'm not looking for one semester of work. I'll be looking for a contract that runs from the start of Semester 2 to the end of Semester One next year. I'm glad to hear you confirm that you also believe it's a bit early. I haven't seen any university jobs for February/March pop up on Dave's or any other site yet, so it must mean we're still ahead of the game. This is a good thing.

I guess I just need to be more patient, especially since I'm going to China. I'm a person who likes to have all his ducks in a row ASAP. From what I've read here and in other places, the Chinese may not share this attitude. It'll help me when I get to China if I could just chill out a bit, no?

Still, I'd like to hear from others who will also be searching for jobs for a Semester Two start.

Non Sequitur · Joined: 23 May 2010 Posts: 4724 Location: China

Good to hear.
I wouldn't slacken off on the enquiries - better too many than too few.
Also DON'T be bowled over by the first outfit that shows interest. Keep a few on the boil until you've an offer letter that you can take to the consulate for your Z.
A Semester 2 + Semester 1 deal should get you paid summer holidays in 2015. The other bits should also be in place ie airfare refund, on campus accom etc. That's assuming you are looking a public unis.
Best

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

Yes, things can be a bit more last minute here. My school hasn't asked me if I will be staying another year or not yet. So maybe another month? I want to move to a different city and also take a vacation to Vietnam so I'd like to get things organized asap as there's a bit of logistics involved, but what can you do?

Non Sequitur · Joined: 23 May 2010 Posts: 4724 Location: China

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

mackidrei · Joined: 04 Apr 2013 Posts: 29

My university is looking to hire now for February/March, depends on the place.

rogerwilco · Joined: 10 Jun 2010 Posts: 1549

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

Really? I just got a message back from a recruiter to try back again in December or January. Keep trying I guess.

Non Sequitur · Joined: 23 May 2010 Posts: 4724 Location: China

Does 'looking to hire' mean they are advertising?

Listerine · Joined: 15 Jun 2014 Posts: 340

My school has already had a couple of new teachers sign their contracts to start next semester replacing confirmed departures. FAO seems very happy - Winter vacation starts early! Likewise they signed me on in early April for a September start. Good school, has a very good reputation which shows itself even just in the hiring process.
The positions are definitely out there at the moment, just not the bulk yet.
I found the last February job I signed on for in November.
The recruiter that's telling you January....... Rolling Eyes

....likely wouldn't even give you enough time to arrange visa / transfer whatever before New Year even though it's a couple of weeks later this year. Keep looking.

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

So far I've had contact with about half a dozen recruiters and all have said come back in a few weeks. Some didn't respond. Haven't seen any job adverts in Shandong for 2015 jobs. Maybe start asking schools directly next week. Some vague mention of a Canadian school that might be hiring this morning.