Residential Youth Worker - Hamilton, Hamilton
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Barnardos

Residential Youth Worker - Hamilton

  • Posted 4w ago
  • On Site
  • Full Time

Hamilton

Job Description

Do you thrive on variety and meaningful work?  Are you passionate about supporting rangatahi with complex needs to build safer, more positive futures? This could be the role for you!


We are looking for a suitably qualified and/or experienced, culturally responsive youth worker for our residential whare in Hamilton. This is a permanent, full-time role .


Hours and Roster


  • This role operates on a seven days on/seven days off rotating roster.
  • Shift starts: Friday 3 pm
  • Shift finish: Following Friday 11 am (includes team meeting 9-11am)
  • Sleepovers: Required at the house during your shift
  • Weekday stand-down: Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm (off shift unless required)


This structure allows continuity of care for rangatahi and clear recovery time for kaimahi.


At our whare, we cultivate a nurturing space that fosters growth and learning. Our safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment equips these young individuals with essential life skills as they prepare to transition back to their whānau, caregivers, or independence.


Role & Responsibilities


As a Residential Youth Worker, you will:


  • Engage with and support rangatahi during rostered shifts using a trauma-responsive, strengths-based approach.
  • Support rangatahi to develop pro-social behaviours, emotional regulation and life skills.
  • Respond safely and professionally to challenging behaviour, including situations involving risk or harmful behaviour, in line with organisational policy.
  • Develop, facilitate and monitor structured and unstructured activities that support wellbeing, education and positive identity.
  • Promote and maintain meaningful connections with whanau, community and cultural supports.
  • Contribute to a safe, respectful and professional team environment, including accurate documentations and handovers.
  • Work collaboratively with colleagues, social workers, schools, and external providers.
  • Maintain clear professional boundaries and uphold the safety and dignity of all rangatahi in care.


Skills & Experience


You will bring:


  • A strong belief that all rangatahi deserve the opportunity to grow learn and thrive.
  • Experience working with rangatahi with high and complex needs, including trauma and challenging behaviour.
  • A culturally responsive practice, with an understanding of Te Ao Māori is desirable
  • The ability to remain calm, reflective and resilient in high-pressure situations.
  • Knowledge of Kaupapa Māori and/or Whānau Ora approach is desirable
  • A current full NZ driver’s license is required, and
  • A current First Aid Certificate is desirable.


Working with Us


This role can be challenging and rewarding.  You will need resilience and a genuine passion for youth work.  In return, we offer:


  • A comprehensive induction programme
  • Ongoing training and professional development, including trauma-informed practice
  • Regular supervision and peer support
  • A supportive team culture focused on learning and reflection


Why Choose Barnardos?


  • Be at the forefront of trauma-responsive youth care in New Zealand, contributing to groundbreaking programs
  • Join a respected NGO with over 55 years of impact in child welfare and advocacy
  • Access ongoing professional development opportunities, including specialised training in trauma-informed practices and the latest youth care methodologies
  • Enjoy family-friendly policies, including flexible work arrangements where possible
  • Benefit from discounted childcare at Barnardos Early Learning centres
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Supportive team environment with regular supervision and peer support
  • Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable young people


Embody Our Values


  • Kotahitanga (unity) : Cultivate a sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with rangatahi, colleagues, and the wider community
  • Mahi tōtika (excellence) : Demonstrate unwavering integrity and purpose in all aspects of your work, striving for the highest standards of care
  • Kaikōkiritanga (innovation) : Drive positive change with creativity, constantly seeking new and effective ways to support rangatahi
  • Āta whakarongo (active listening) : Let rangatahi voices shape your approach, ensuring their perspectives are central to decision-making
  • Māiatanga (empowerment) : Nurture growth and unlock potential in both rangatahi and colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development


About Barnardos Aotearoa


Barnardos Aotearoa is a children’s charity working with tamariki and whānau to ensure every child in Aotearoa has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our unique combination of social services, early learning, care services and counselling helpline provides the broadest range of child and whānau-centred services in Aotearoa.


Each year, we work with more than 30,000 tamariki, rangatahi and whānau across the country


If you would like a copy of the position description please email recruitment@barnardos.org.nz, in your email please quote the ID number: 1469748


Every day, we’re making a positive, long-lasting difference to children's lives.

Ready to create positive ripples? Apply now and let's transform young lives together!


We will commence interviews as applications are received.

Desired Hard Skills

  • First Aid
  • Trauma-responsive Care
  • Youth Support

Desired Soft Skills

  • Teamwork
  • Calmness
  • Reflective Practice
  • Resilience

Benefits & Perks

Culture

  • 🏛 Fully Paid Jury Service
  • 🏘 Work from Home
  • 🧕 Inclusive Workspace
  • ❤ Care and Appreciation
  • 👶 Childcare Support
  • 🩺 Health Insurance
  • ⚖ Work-Life Balance Support
  • 💚 Counselling Services
  • 📈 Professional Development
  • 🛂 Visa Sponsorship
  • 🚗 Company Car
  • 🏎 Competitive Salary
  • 🎉 Employee Discounts and Rewards
  • 🎖 Long Service Rewards
  • 🔥 Company Discounts
  • ⛽ Vehicle/Fuel Card
  • 💻 Company Supplied Technology
  • ⛑ Uniform Provided
  • ⏰ Flexible Work
View All
  • 🧠 Neurodiverse
  • 🚻 Unisex Bathrooms
  • 🗣 Support Services for Employees
  • 💝 Charitable
  • 🤝 Unionisation
  • 🙌 Community Focused
  • 👪 Family Friendly
  • 🌐 INZ Accredited Employer
View All

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