Therapeutic Childcare Worker - Trauma-Informed Care

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 3,900 - 4,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full-time employment

Professional training in trauma‑in‑fom

Regular supervision

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, is seeking a compassionate Therapeutic Childcare Worker to provide a safe, nurturing residential care setting for children who have experienced trauma. You will apply trauma-informed care, build trusting relationships, and support emotional and behavioral well-being.

The role collaborates with social workers and psychologists, requires resilience and strong de-escalation skills, and offers meaningful work contributing to healing and development of

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience with children, preferably in therapeutic or residential care.
• Understanding and application of trauma-informed care principles.
• Knowledge of child development and common care challenges.
• Skills in behavior management, de-escalation, and conflict resolution.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to children in a residential setting, ensuring safety and well-being.
• Implement trauma-informed care principles in all interactions and activities.
• Build positive, trusting relationships and act as a supportive role model.
• Assist children in managing emotions and behaviors through de-escalation and coping strategies.
• Facilitate daily routines including meals, hygiene, homework, and recreation.
• Support social and emotional development through planned activities and interventions.
• Collaborate with the clinical team to support individual care plans.
• Document observations, incidents, and progress accurately and timely.
• Maintain a safe, clean care environment conducive to healing and growth.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and supervision.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

De-escalation

Empathy

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Education

Social Work

Psychology

Child and Youth Care

Related field

Job description

About the Role

A specialized child welfare organization based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , is seeking a compassionate and skilled Therapeutic Childcare Worker to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who have experienced trauma. This essential role focuses on implementing trauma-informed care practices, building trusting relationships, and supporting the emotional and behavioral well-being of children. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including social workers and psychologists, to create stability and promote healing. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of child development, trauma-informed approaches, and de-escalation techniques. This is a hands‑on position within a residential care setting, requiring dedication, resilience, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children in Queenstown .

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to children in a residential setting, ensuring their safety and well‑being.
• Implement trauma‑informed care principles in all interactions and activities.
• Build positive and trusting relationships with children, acting as a supportive role model.
• Assist children in managing their emotions and behaviors through de‑escalation and coping strategies.
• Facilitate structured daily routines, including meals, hygiene, homework, and recreational activities.
• Support children's social and emotional development through planned activities and therapeutic interventions.
• Collaborate effectively with the clinical team (social workers, psychologists) to support individual care plans.
• Document observations, incidents, and progress accurately and timely.
• Ensure the care environment is safe, clean, and conducive to healing and growth.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and supervision.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with children, preferably in a therapeutic or residential care setting.
• Demonstrated understanding and application of trauma‑informed care principles.
• Knowledge of child development and common challenges faced by children in care.
• Skills in behavior management, de‑escalation, and conflict resolution.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Resilience, patience, and empathy.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to undergo background checks.
• Commitment to ethical practice and child protection.

Benefits

• An annual salary of 70000 ZAR , commensurate with experience.
• Full‑time employment with a stable organization.
• Meaningful work experience contributing to the healing and development of children.
• Opportunity for professional growth and specialized training in trauma‑informed care.
• Supportive team environment and regular supervision.
• The profound satisfaction of making a significant difference in the lives of children.