Social Worker Sydenham

New Zealand Government; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Wellbeing supports

Professional development

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children in Canterbury invites applications for a permanent, full-time Social Worker role. You will support tamariki and rangatahi, work with whānau, and partner with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations to promote wellbeing and safety.

You will lead safety and risk assessments, design strengths-based plans, and advocate for whānau in collaboration with government agencies. A recognised social work qualification and Full SWRB registration are required, with a

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration or eligibility to register.
• A recognised social work qualification.
• Strengths-based, client-centred practice approach.
• A full, clean New Zealand driver’s licence.
• Willingness to work in partnership with whānau, iwi and Māori organisations.

Responsibilities

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments.
• Lead hui with care and confidence.
• Design tailored, strengths-based, culturally aligned plans.
• Uplift the mana of whānau in every interaction.
• Collaborate with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations and agencies.

Skills

Strong communication

Cultural competence

Resilience

Team collaboration

Education

Social work degree

Tools

Case management software

Digital documentation

Job description

Apply now for a rewarding, permanent, full-time Social Work careerJoin our vibrant multi-cultural office in SydenhamWe're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience. Progression through tenure up to $109,180.Mō te tūnga | The RoleThis is not just a job - it's a calling.You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside whānau as they navigate uncertainty, transformation and growth. You will bring aroha, clarity and optimism while maintaining mana.You will:Complete thorough safety and risk assessmentsLead hui with care and confidenceDesign tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plansUplift the mana of whānau through every interactionWork in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.Nōu te rourou | What's in it for youIn this role, you don't just give - you grow.You'll be part of a values-led, purpose-driven organisation that offers:A competitive salary and comprehensive benefitsFlexible working arrangements and wellbeing supportsOngoing kaupapa Māori learning and professional developmentA workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and te ao MāoriNgā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bringWe're looking for people with the heart and skill to lead in this space - whether you're a seasoned professional or newly registered.You will have:Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register)A recognised social work qualificationA genuine, strengths-based practice approachA full, clean New Zealand driver's licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)An unwavering commitment to working in partnership with whānauAlso valuable:Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competenceKnowledge of tikanga Māori and Pasifika culturesSolid documentation and digital literacy skillsMō mātou | About Oranga TamarikiOranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children is grounded in the belief that every tamaiti deserves a loving, safe, and supported life. Our values guide us:Aroha - we care deeplyWhakapapa - we honour connectionsMana - we uphold the dignity of allTika & Pono - we do what's right, with integrityOranga - we journey toward wellbeing, togetherWe are committed to building genuine partnerships with iwi, hapū and Māori communities - ensuring tamariki and whānau are at the centre of all we do.Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to ApplyApply online with your CV and Cover Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please log in and apply using your Oranga Tamariki email address.If you have any questions about the role, please contact: [e-mail] close: Sunday 15 November 2026. We will be reviewing CV's and interviewing preferred candidates as we go so get your applications in now! Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert once all roles are filled.If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct which explains our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.