Social Worker Youth Justice at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Fulltime permanent position
• Waikato based
• Remuneration starting from $76,284 based on experience

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is a Ministry dedicated to supporting any child in Aotearoa whose wellbeing is at significant risk of harm now, or in the future. Youth Justice is a pathway for tamariki and rangatahi who have, or are alleged to have, committed an offence. It gives them a genuine opportunity to change their lives for the better without getting a criminal record and to make positive strides forward.

In this role as a Youth Justice Social Worker within the Waikato Youth Justice Team, you will work in partnership with rangatahi, their whānau, police, youth advocates and essential government and community support services to address the underlying factors that contribute to offending as early as possible, to reduce the potential for lifelong offending. This role will provide a real opportunity to positively influence rangatahi, and whānau in your community. Our belief is that in the right environment, with the right people surrounding and nurturing them, any tamariki and rangatahi can, and should flourish.

Mō mātou | About us

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values:
• We put Tamariki first
• We believe Aroha is vital
• We respect the Mana of people
• We are Tika and Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

Our purpose is to ensure that all tamariki are in loving whānau and communities where oranga tamariki can be realised. We believe that by getting involved early in their lives and showing love and care, we give children the best chance of growing into happy thriving New Zealanders.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

• A passion for Youth Justice
• A Social Work Qualification with Full Registration and current Annual Practising Certificate with the New Zealand Social Worker Registration Board
• Excellent relationship building skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (you will need to provide professional written and verbal feedback to the courts)
• A commitment to bi-cultural practice and a culturally responsive approach (including a good understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi)
• An understanding of the Oranga Tamariki Act and Youth Justice processes
• Proven expertise and social work practice in child protection and an understanding of New Zealand legislation that relates to the safety of children and young people
• A full, clean driver's licence

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/

Youth Justice Waikato includes a dedicated team of champions who enjoy working in a healthy, safe and positive culture where individuals are valued and included. If looking forward to coming to work every day is important to you, and you have strong moral values including a genuine concern for young people, do not hesitate to apply.

Applications close: 24th March 2023

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address. If you have any questions about role, please contact Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz