Child and Youth Care Worker

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid role

Medical aid contribution

Professional development opportunities

Supportive team

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Cape Town is seeking a compassionate Child and Youth Care Worker to support vulnerable children and youth, promoting safety, well-being and development. The hybrid role combines direct service with administrative tasks and potential remote coordination.

You will work with families, social workers and educators, develop care plans, and help organise education, recreation and therapy activities, while maintaining confidential records and upholding best-practice trauma-informed

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification in Social Work, Psychology, or Child and Youth Care.
• Proven experience with children and youth in caregiving or therapeutic settings.
• Strong understanding of child development and trauma-informed care.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills.
• Valid driver''s license and willingness to travel within the Cape Town region.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for children and youth in a safe and nurturing environment.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans based on the specific needs of each child.
• Facilitate educational, recreational, and therapeutic activities to promote holistic development.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of child progress, incidents, and interventions.
• Collaborate with families, social workers, educators, and other professionals to ensure coordinated care.
• Administer medication as prescribed and monitor health.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Documentation

Education

Relevant qualification in Social Work / Psychology / Child and Youth Care

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Child and Youth Care Worker to join their team in Cape Town, Western Cape . This role focuses on providing essential support and guidance to vulnerable children and youth, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development. The position involves a hybrid work model, combining direct service with administrative tasks and potential remote coordination. You will be a vital part of a team committed to making a positive difference in the lives of young individuals, empowering them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. This role requires immense patience, empathy, and a professional approach to caregiving.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for children and youth in a safe and nurturing environment.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans based on the specific needs of each child.
• Facilitate educational, recreational, and therapeutic activities to promote holistic development.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of child progress, incidents, and interventions.
• Collaborate with families, social workers, educators, and other professionals to ensure coordinated care.
• Administer medication as prescribed and monitor physical health.
• De-escalate conflicts and manage challenging behaviours with patience and professionalism.
• Organize and facilitate group sessions focused on life skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of program policies and procedures.
• Provide emotional support and act as a positive role model for the children and youth in care.

Requirements

• Minimum of a relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
• Proven experience working directly with children and youth, preferably in a caregiving or therapeutic setting.
• Strong understanding of child development principles and trauma-informed care.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and confidential case notes and reports.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and policies pertaining to child welfare.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Cape Town region.
• First Aid and CPR certification is a strong advantage.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, resilience, and a genuine commitment to child welfare.

Benefits

This hybrid role offers a competitive salary, medical aid contribution, and opportunities for ongoing professional development. You will be part of a supportive and dedicated team in Cape Town, Western Cape , working within a meaningful field. We provide a structured environment with resources to ensure you can provide the best possible care. The hybrid nature allows for a balance between direct impact and focused administrative work.