A talent-scouting delegation from Taiwan set up shop in Silicon Valley, California, on Saturday, recruiting sources said.
The delegation of representatives from leading enterprises and academic and research institutions is holding a series of activities in an attempt to persuade foreign professionals to seek jobs in Taiwan, said Minister Without Portfolio Lin Feng-ching (林逢慶), who is heading the delegation.
draft alternative
The main appeal of this year's recruiting program is that the government has passed an amendment to allow draft-age males to serve in research and development positions as an alternative to mandatory military service beginning next year. It is hoped this will encourage more young Taiwanese expatriates to return home.
Lin said that master's degree holders, regardless of their field or place of study, would be able to do research and development (R&D) work for the government or private sector instead of military service.
The Executive Yuan has also come up with programs to attract senior professionals with more than 15 years of experience to serve as short-term consultants in Taiwan, Lin said. He said the fields of basic science, biomedical technology, image display, digital content, information technology, semiconductors, energy technology, environmental and natural conservation, nano and high-end technology all required manpower.
Lin said there was also great demand for engineers, business executives, managers and R&D chiefs.
incentives
The government is offering incentives such as simplified tax procedures, relaxed work and residence visa regulations and school placement for the children of overseas employees.
Since 2003, the government has managed to recruit 2,850 foreigners, Lin said. This year, 1,370 jobs at 42 government agencies and private companies will be available, he said.
The delegation will travel to Los Angeles, Houston, Washington and Toronto to conduct seminars, press conferences and one-on-one interviews with overseas professionals seeking work in Taiwan, Lin said.
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