Expressions of Interest for Te Puna Wai - Youth Justice Youth Workers at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Canterbury
Do you want the chance to make a difference one moment, milestone, and interaction at a time?
Are you interested in helping tamariki develop the skills they need to be meaningful contributors to their whānau & communities?
Would you like to share your interests, passions, and culture to help inspire and empower rangatahi? We would love to hear from you!
We are currently accepting Expressions of Interests from candidates interested in a career in Youth Work at Te Puna Wai Youth Justice Residence in Rolleston, Canterbury.
Please note that submitting your Expression of Interest is not a formal application but a registration of interest. By submitting, you invite our Talent Acquisition team to contact you if a suitable opportunity arises.
What is a Youth Worker?
A Youth Worker works in Oranga Tamariki's Youth Justice Residences, Care & Protection Residences, Group Homes, and other facilities supporting youth offenders and at-risk tamariki and rangatahi.
The starting salary for a full-time Youth Worker is between $69,312 - $78,400.80. Casual Youth Workers are offered an hourly rate of $26.00 plus 8% holiday pay.
Te Puna Wai is a secure residence for youth offenders in Rolleston, operating 24/7 to support rangatahi. We seek positive role models to help our rangatahi turn their lives around through daily care, support, and engagement in educational, vocational, and community activities. Our team works to keep rangatahi connected to mentors, whānau, and community programs.
This is not a 9 to 5 job — our Youth Workers work rostered shifts to provide 24/7 care, including weekends and public holidays.
Typical duties include:
* Coaching rangatahi through daily routines and life skills
* Participating in activities and supporting education and personal development
* Building rapport with traumatised rangatahi and redirecting behaviour
* Working with resilient and proactive youth with initiative
* Managing risk and making tough decisions with sound judgment
* Demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding
* Communicating effectively, adapting to different audiences
* Having knowledge of tikanga Māori and te reo Māori
* Having a tertiary qualification in psychology, social sciences, social work, arts, or teaching is an advantage but not required; life experience is highly valued.
* Possessing a current and valid New Zealand driver’s license
* Meeting safety and vetting requirements under the Children's Act and right to work in New Zealand
* Being flexible to work various shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you
Our Youth Workers receive full-time paid on-the-job training and meals during shifts. We support ongoing development and offer career progression opportunities within Oranga Tamariki, with many leaders starting as Youth Workers.
We provide a competitive remuneration package with annual progression based on experience and tenure. We value diversity and are committed to an inclusive, respectful workplace.
How to submit your Expression of Interest
Share your experience, passions, and interest in youth work by uploading your current CV and answering our screening questions. For questions, contact info_recruit@ot.govt.nz.
Please familiarize yourself with our code of conduct, which expects staff to be free from drugs and alcohol during work.
Note: You may be redirected to the employer’s careers website.
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