Residential Youth Worker - Hamilton

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. We will commence interviews as applications are received. #J-18808-Ljbffr