Supervisor Social Worker - Lower Hutt

New Zealand Government; Upper Hutt; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 122,000; Full time

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Lower Hutt is seeking a Supervisor Social Worker to lead and supervise a team of social workers delivering whānau-focused services. You will work closely with iwi, government and non-government partners to support tamariki and whānau, travel regionally as needed and uphold our practice framework.

The ideal candidate will have SWRB registration, a social work degree, a driver’s licence and demonstrable people-management experience, with a pro‑active,

Qualifications

• Full, clean driver’s licence.
• Full registration with NZ SWRB.
• A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB.
• Previous people management and/or mentoring experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of social workers across these areas.
• Identify professional development needs and support growth.
• Manage workflow and ensure timely, sound decisions.

Skills

Team leadership

People management

Relationship building

Time management

Cross-cultural awareness

Education

Social work qualification recognised by SWRB

Job description

Supervisor Social Worker - Lower Hutt• Full time, permanent opportunity• We're offering a competitive salary starting from $111,020.00This role will be located at our Lower Hutt site. At this site we are working with tamariki and whānau to make positive changes in our community. We need people who have knowledge, experience and who are deeply passionate about whānau wellbeing.We acknowledge that there is much work to do but we are up for it. If you think you have what it takes, then apply to join our team here. Our sites work hard to do things differently within the foundation of a whānau led approach focused on awhi and supporting whānau in mana-enhancing ways.Mō te tūnga | About the roleAs part of this role you will need to lead, support and supervise a team of social workers working across these areas. This team also works closely with Iwi and other government and non-government organisations, supporting our tamariki and whanau. The ability to build and maintain positive relationships across this area is of high importance. It is imperative that you are able to travel around the region as and when required.The role requires you to identify the professional development needs of your team and ensure they are supported to grow their capability and practice depth. Manage workflow and ensure that the right decisions are made in a timely manner.Everything you do needs to reflect the values of Oranga Tamariki, and assure professional practice is aligned with our Practice Framework, Principles and Standards. Partner and collaborate with peer supervisors across the region, including the wider leadership team and understanding the importance of your role in the wider operational setting.Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bringThe ideal candidate for this role is an experienced Supervisor who is working as such in Oranga Tamariki as a Supervisor (or who has recently been a Supervisor with Oranga Tamariki).Key requirements of the role include:• A full, clean, valid driver's licence• Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB)• A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB• Previous people management and/or mentoring experience is essential• An ability to build and lead an effective team and be a team player• A proactive approach that places the needs of tamariki front and centre in all decisions and actions.• Excellent time management skills and ability to manage competing demands• Knowledge of the principals and purposes of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture.Mō 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.We put Tamariki firstWe believe Aroha is vitalWe respect the Mana of peopleWe are Tika and PonoWe value WhakapapaWe recognise that Oranga is a journeyNōu te rourou | What's in it for youWe 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.Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to ApplyApply 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 [e-mail] as applications close on Friday 6 November 2026, however may close early dependant on applicant suitability.If 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.