Child and Youth Care Worker

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Professional development opportunities

Meaningful work

Supportive team environment

Scenic Mossel Bay setting

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Child and Youth Care Worker in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and therapeutic living environment for vulnerable youth in residential care.

You will collaborate with social workers and other professionals to support development plans, provide direct care, and model resilience and empathy in a multidisciplinary team. Evening/weekend shifts may be required, with opportunities for on-the-job training.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Child and Youth Care Work, Social Auxiliary Work, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years' experience in a care setting.
• Understanding of child development and trauma-informed care principles.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work shifts including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to children and youth in a residential setting.
• Assist with daily routines, including meals, hygiene, and personal care.
• Plan and facilitate age-appropriate recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities.
• Provide emotional support and guidance to children, addressing their individual needs.
• Monitor children's behaviour and development, reporting any concerns to management.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and nurturing environment for all residents.
• Collaborate with social workers, psychologists, and other professionals to support child development plans.
• Implement and adhere to organisational policies and procedures, including child protection protocols.
• Act as a positive role model for the children and youth.
• Document observations and interactions with residents accurately and promptly.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Empathy

Resilience

Communication

Report writing

Teamwork

Trauma-informed care

First Aid CPR

Education

Child and Youth Care qualification

Social Auxiliary Work

Related field qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organisation focused on the welfare of children and youth, is seeking a nurturing and resilient Child and Youth Care Worker to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This vital role involves providing a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment for young people in residential care. You will be responsible for meeting the daily needs of the children, facilitating their personal, social, and emotional development, and ensuring their well-being. This position requires a compassionate individual with a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable youth. The successful candidate will work closely with a team of professionals dedicated to child protection and development within the beautiful Mossel Bay setting. We are looking for someone who can build strong, trusting relationships with the children, offering guidance, support, and stability. Your role will be central to creating a positive and therapeutic living experience for the young individuals under our care. This role is hands‑on and directly impacts the lives of children in need within the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision to children and youth in a residential setting.
• Assist with daily routines, including meals, hygiene, and personal care.
• Plan and facilitate age‑appropriate recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities.
• Provide emotional support and guidance to children, addressing their individual needs.
• Monitor children's behaviour and development, reporting any concerns to management.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and nurturing environment for all residents.
• Collaborate with social workers, psychologists, and other professionals to support child development plans.
• Implement and adhere to organisational policies and procedures, including child protection protocols.
• Act as a positive role model for the children and youth.
• Document observations and interactions with residents accurately and promptly.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Child and Youth Care Work, Social Auxiliary Work, or a related field is highly preferred.
• Previous experience working with children or youth in a care setting is essential (minimum 2 years).
• Demonstrated understanding of child development and trauma-informed care principles.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with children from diverse backgrounds.
• Patience, empathy, and resilience in handling challenging behaviours.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Good communication and report‑writing skills.
• Willingness to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• A passion for child welfare and a commitment to creating a positive impact.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: R per annum.
• Opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of children and youth.
• Work within a supportive and caring team environment in scenic Mossel Bay.
• On-the-job training and professional development opportunities.
• Meaningful work that contributes to community well‑being.
• Exposure to diverse cases and developmental challenges.
• Contribution to a vital social service in the Western Cape.
• Clear career progression within the child and youth care sector.