Social Worker

Position Summary

This permanent full-time role is based at the Te Awamutu location in Waikato. The compensation range is $81,206 to $97,557 annually, depending on experience, with potential progression based on tenure.

Role Purpose

Tamariki and rangatahi welfare is a shared responsibility. This role involves ensuring their safety, amplifying their voices, and strengthening connections with supportive whānau and community. Ideal candidates are qualified, registered social workers eager to make a tangible impact by prioritizing the needs of tamariki and rangatahi.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage with tamariki, rangatahi, their families, and whānau to capture their perspectives.
• Conduct thorough needs assessments and develop intensive care intervention plans.
• Contribute actively in hui-ā-whānau, family group conferences, and collaborate with various agencies, community groups, and local iwi to deliver positive outcomes.

Qualifications and Experience

• Must hold full registration or be eligible for registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB).
• Possess a recognized social work qualification as approved by SWRB.
• Demonstrate cultural awareness, especially regarding tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' cultures.
• Hold a valid, clean, and current full driver's license.
• Exhibit strong oral and written communication abilities.
• Show resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills in challenging contexts.
• Proficient with PCs and Microsoft Office Suite, with competency in report writing.

Benefits

• Discounted Southern Cross insurance premiums.
• Vision care benefits.
• Coverage of SWRB and Annual Practicing Certificate (APC) renewal fees.
• Opportunities to grow your professional network across the children's services sector.
• Robust training and career development programs to support continued growth.
• Annual leave of 23 days increasing to 25 days after five years of service (pro-rated for part-time).

About Oranga Tamariki

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is dedicated to centering tamariki and rangatahi in all practices, honoring key values such as aroha, respect for mana, truthfulness (tika and pono), whakapapa, and recognizing wellbeing (oranga) as an ongoing journey. The organization collaborates closely with hapū, iwi, and Māori entities to create culturally appropriate solutions for tamariki in need and envisions New Zealand as the premier place worldwide for child wellbeing.

Application Details

Submit your CV and cover letter online. Current employees must apply using their official Oranga Tamariki email. Queries about the role can be directed as per provided contacts. Applications close on 28 August 2026; however, review and interviews occur on a rolling basis, encouraging early submission.

Candidates must adhere to the organization's code of conduct, ensuring attendance free from drug or alcohol influences.