The wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi is everyone's responsibility. They deserve to feel safe, have their voices heard, and be surrounded by loving whānau and community. If these words capture why, you became a Social Worker, then you belong on the journey we have begun at Oranga Tamariki. We're looking for qualified and registered social workers who want to make a real difference by putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of everything they do.Sunny Nelson offers stunning beaches, lush national parks, and a vibrant arts scene. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, it boasts hiking, biking, kayaking, and world-class wineries. With great schools, a strong community, and a relaxed lifestyle, Nelson is ideal for balancing work and play.Fixed Term role available till 30 June 2027Position will be based at our Nelson SiteWe're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experienceMō mātou | About usOranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do.Our vision is to ensure New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki first, we believe aroha is vital, we respect the mana of people, we are tika and pono, we value whakapapa and we recognise that oranga is a journey.About the role | Mō te tūngaIn order to make positive changes in the lives of children and families in our community, we need people like you who have knowledge, experience and are passionate about the wellbeing of children. Join a team with big hearts and a passion for getting things right for its children, young people and community. You can be part of a positive and supportive team with a strong inclusive culture where your voice will be heard, and your colleagues will always be there to support youHear tamariki and rangatahi voices and support them or their whānau to make positive changesWork with various cultural groups and people from different backgroundsComplete full assessments on the tamariki, rangatahi and whānauBe able to hold and facilitate a hui, with a focus on supporting whānau to grow their capacity to care for their tamariki and rangatahiBe involved in planning and delivering interventions to maintain tamariki and rangatahi within their whānauWork alongside partners in our community, non-government organisations and state sector agenciesBe an advocate on behalf of tamariki and rangatahi to ensure they have the support and resources needed to reach their full potentialWhat you will bring | Ngā pūmanawatanga ōuFull registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) and Current practicing certificateA social worker qualification recognised by the SWRBA full, clean, current driver's licenceRecent and relevant experience with Oranga Tamariki and one of our Social Worker rolesEmpathy, patience and ability to see past what someone may be struggling withExperience within the child protection sector, preferably within NZThe ability to analyse and prepare social work and other plans e.g. financialAble to demonstrate sound judgement and organisational skillsThe ability to manage risk and make tough decisionsWhat's in it for you | Nōu te rourouWe offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer 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.How to Apply | Me pēhea te tuku tonoApply 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.nzApplications close: Midnight 12th November 2026! However we will be reviewing CV's and interviewing as we go so get your application in today as we will close the role if the right candidate is foundIf you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.