Residential Youth Worker

We have a fulltime and permanent opportunity in Auckland for people who want to support and guide rangatahi in a secure environment. This role is about being present for young people aged 13–18 who are living at our residence while they await or complete their court processes.

Residential Youth Workers are everyday mentors and role models. Alongside a team, you’ll provide structure, encouragement, and practical guidance to help rangatahi build skills and look toward a positive future. This could mean supporting their schooling or vocational training, joining them in recreational or cultural activities, accompanying them to visits or appointments, or simply being there to coach them through daily routines.

Because the residence operates around the clock, the work is rostered across mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. This is not a standard 9–5 role — the rangatahi need consistent support no matter the time of day.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting rangatahi through structured daily routines and essential life skills.

• Taking part in recreational, cultural, and creative activities.

• Encouraging engagement in education, vocational training, and personal development.

• Building trusting relationships with rangatahi who may have experienced trauma and guiding them toward safer choices.

• Working constructively within a team in a dynamic and sometimes high-risk setting.

This mahi can be tough and unpredictable, but it is also incredibly rewarding. You will see the impact of your effort and commitment reflected in the growth of rangatahi.

base salary of $57,760–$65,334, depending on experience. Once you complete induction and move onto the rotating roster (days, evenings, and weekends), you will receive an additional 20% allowance, bringing your total remuneration to $69,312–$78,400.

What you will bring

• Ability to meet the Children’s Act safety checking and police vetting requirements, and eligibility to work in Aotearoa (Clean Criminal history is a MUST!!)

• Willingness and ability to work across a roster that covers mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays

• A good level of physical fitness that will allow you to safely support and interact with rangatahi

• Confidence and resilience to work alongside rangatahi who may display challenging behaviours.

• Good judgement and the ability to assess risk and act decisively.

• Empathy, patience, and the ability to look beyond behaviours to the person.

• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Awareness of te reo Maori and tikanga Maori, and a willingness to keep learning.

• A background in psychology, social sciences, social work, teaching, youth work, sports, music, or arts is helpful but not essential — lived experience and practical skills are highly valued. • Must hold a valid Restricted or Full Licence (and willing to gain Full Licence)

What’s in it for you • Paid, comprehensive induction training and meals while on shift. • Opportunities for professional growth and career pathways within the organisation. • A pay scale that recognises experience and offers annual progression. • An inclusive and diverse workplace that values contribution at every level.

In this role you need to have the right to work in New Zealand, either as a NZ citizen or permanent resident. You will also need to be able to meet the safety checking and police vetting requirements required under the Children's Act, please note that Clean Slate does not apply.