YJ Supervisor Social Worker - Taranaki

New Zealand Government Joba; New Plymouth; On-site; NZD 111,000 - 134,000; Full time

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki-Ministry for Children in New Zealand seeks a Supervisor Social Worker (Youth Justice) to lead a team delivering high-quality services for tamariki, rangatahi, whānau and communities. The role is based in Hawera or New Plymouth in the Taranaki region, with a competitive NZD salary between 111,020 and 133,696 depending on experience.

The role provides leadership, oversight and professional supervision to ensure services align with legislation, policy and practice standards, and to

Qualifications

• Full, clean NZ driver licence required.
• Full SWRB registration with Annual Practising Certificate or eligibility.
• Tertiary qualification in social work.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of social workers and support staff to deliver Youth Justice services.
• Provide leadership, oversight and professional supervision for practice excellence.
• Develop team capability, monitor performance, manage workflow and risk, ensure quality casework outcomes.
• Collaborate with iwi, NGOs, partner agencies and internal stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Social work

Team supervision

Risk management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Social work degree

Job description

Permanent, fulltime position availablePosition can be based at either Hawera or New Plymouth in the Taranaki RegionWe're offering a competitive salary starting from, $111,020 to $133,696, depending on experienceThis role will support our Youth Justice service. We are seeking an experienced and values-driven Supervisor Social Worker to lead a team delivering high quality services for tamariki, rangatahi, wh nau and communities. You will play a key role in ensuring service excellence, supporting staff capability and fostering strong partnerships with iwi, community providers and key stakeholders.This is an opportunity to influence positive outcomes for young people, lead practice excellence and contribute to a wh nau-centred, mana-enhancing approach that reflects the values of Oranga Tamariki.Mo m tou | About usOranga 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 firstWe believe Aroha is vitalWe respect the Mana of peopleWe are Tika and PonoWe value WhakapapaWe recognise that Oranga is a journeyWe are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapu, iwi and M ori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.Mo te tunga | About the roleAs Supervisor Social Worker (Youth Justice), you will lead, support and manage a team of social workers and support staff to ensure the effective delivery of Youth Justice services. You will provide leadership, oversight and professional supervision while ensuring services are delivered in line with legislation, policy, practice standards and organisational priorities.You will develop team capability, monitor performance, manage workflow and risk, and ensure quality casework outcomes. Working closely with the Youth Justice Manager and Practice Leader, you will contribute to continuous improvement, operational effectiveness and the achievement of key performance indicators.Success in this role requires strong relationship management skills and the ability to work collaboratively with iwi, NGOs, partner agencies, community providers and internal stakeholders. Everything you do will reflect the values of Oranga Tamariki and support positive outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and their wh nau.Ng pumanawatanga ou | What you will bringWe are looking for an experienced social work leader with a strong commitment to tamariki wellbeing and practice excellence.Key requirements of the role include:A full, clean, current New Zealand driver licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)Full registration with the Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB) and a current Annual Practising Certificate (or eligibility to obtain these)A recognised tertiary qualification in social workProven people leadership, supervision and performance management experienceDemonstrated success in leading and supporting social workers to achieve high quality practice outcomesStrong understanding of risk management, service delivery and continuous improvementExcellent planning, organisational and communication skillsSound knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practice, particularly tikanga M ori and Pacific peoples cultures, with a commitment to Te Tiriti o WaitangiNou te rourou | What's in it for youOranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $111,020 and $133,696 dependent on experience.We also 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/Me pehea 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 [e-mail] close: Thursday 1st of October 2026 and we will begin shortlisting candidates as we receive applications. 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 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.