The process is very time consuming and there are a number of steps involved as you need to apply for a work permit (not tourist visa). the actual information they need is very straightforward. All the information you need will be on the French embassy website. I would recommend getting onto it straight away. It takes quite a few weeks to get all steps completed as you need to submit forms via email to the department of labour and have them returned to you before you apply for the visa. PM if you get stuck as I still have all the paperwork I did last year.