Residential Youth Worker

Barnardos; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A national NGO in youth care is seeking passionate youth workers in Christchurch. This full-time role involves supporting male rangatahi in overcoming challenges and promoting positive change. Candidates should have relevant experience, a driver's license, and the ability to work under pressure. Join our team to make a lasting difference in young lives while benefiting from a supportive and innovative environment.

Benefits

Access to ongoing professional development

Discounted childcare at Barnardos Early Learning centers

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• Experience with youth work is highly desirable.
• Culturally responsive skills are important.
• Current 1st Aid Certificate is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support rangatahi in a residential setting.
• Build trust and life skills for young people.
• Work as part of a dynamic team.
• Encourage connections with whanau.

Skills

Experience working with young people

Cultural understanding of Te ao Māori

Full clean NZ driver's license

Ability to thrive under pressure

Job description

$26.10 - $29.10 per hour + 15% loading allowance

We are looking for passionate, grounded and experienced youth workers to join our team in a residential service in a secure facility based in Christchurch who are supporting male rangatahi who are overcoming harmful sexual behaviour.

This is a permanent, full-time position averaging 40 hours per week. The role is part of a rotating roster that does include some weekend work. A 15% loading allowance is paid on top of the base hourly rates.

Role & Responsibilities

• Supporting rangatahi in a safe, structured residential setting
• Supporting young people by building trust, life skills and pathways for positive change
• Working alongside a tight-knit team in a dynamic environment
• Encouraging and supporting connectedness to whanau
• Bringing energy, empathy and authenticity to your work, every day.

Skills & Experience

• Belief that every young person has potential, no matter their past.
• Prior experience working with young people is highly desirable
• Thrive under pressure and lead with heart
• Culturally responsive. An understanding of Te ao Māori is desirable
• A current full clean NZ driver’s license is required
• A current 1st Aid Certificate is desirable.

This role contributes to genuine transformational work, that at times will challenge you. You will be passionate about working with young people, and have the flexibility to work in a dynamic environment.

A comprehensive induction programme is undertaken with ongoing development, training, and support offered to all staff.

Why Choose Barnardos?

• Be at the forefront of trauma-responsive youth care in New Zealand, contributing to groundbreaking programs
• Join a respected NGO with over 55 years of impact in child welfare and advocacy
• Access ongoing professional development opportunities, including specialized training in trauma-informed practices and the latest youth care methodologies
• Enjoy family-friendly policies, including flexible work arrangements where possible
• Benefit from discounted childcare at Barnardos Early Learning centers
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Supportive team environment with regular supervision and peer support
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable young people

Embody Our Values

• Kotahitanga (Unity): Cultivate a sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with rangatahi, colleagues, and the wider community
• Mahi Tōtika (Excellence): Demonstrate unwavering integrity and purpose in all aspects of your work, striving for the highest standards of care
• Kaikōkiritanga (Innovation): Drive positive change with creativity, constantly seeking new and effective ways to support rangatahi
• Āta Whakarongo (Active Listening): Let rangatahi voices shape your approach, ensuring their perspectives are central to decision-making
• Māiatanga (Empowerment): Nurture growth and unlock potential in both rangatahi and colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development

About Barnardos Aotearoa

For over 55 years Barnardos has been shaping brighter futures together with children and families in Aotearoa. Our mahi across social services, early learning and advocacy for children’s rights and wellbeing means we're there for the whole childhood journey, and beyond.

Every day, we’re making a positive, long-lasting difference to children's lives. Ready to create positive ripples? Apply now and let's transform young lives together!