Allied Support Worker - Sydenham

Overview

Oranga Tamariki is offering exciting permanent Allied Support Worker roles aimed at providing consistent operational assistance to frontline Social Work teams. These positions enhance team capacity and ensure continuity of support for tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau across multiple sites, including Sydenham, Christchurch West, Papanui, South Canterbury, West Coast, and Dunedin.

Role Summary

Allied Support Workers operate under supervision of qualified Social Workers, contributing positively by enabling Social Workers to focus on statutory and professional obligations. These are non-regulated roles that do not involve case management or social work tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide site-based support on demand according to team needs.
• Assist Social Workers with documentation entry into CYRAS and other systems.
• Transport tamariki and rangatahi safely to appointments, schools, sports, etc.
• Support Social Workers with Family Group Conferences set-up and administrative tasks.
• Help care for tamariki and rangatahi during out-of-school times or awaiting placements.
• Arrange administrative processes for placement and program transitions.
• Assist tamariki and rangatahi in school settlement and reintegration.
• Conduct supervised visitations, including transporting clients, supervising contact, and documenting visits; weekend and after-hours work required occasionally.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with internal teams, external partners, and stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

This role demands a high level of trustworthiness and safety awareness, with strong judgement, resilience, and reliability. Ideal candidates will have experience supporting people in community settings, familiarity with Māori and Pasifika cultures, ability to handle emotional situations empathetically, and exceptional communication skills.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Strong written and verbal communication paired with interpersonal effectiveness.
• Capacity to remain composed and professional in emotionally challenging situations.
• Understanding and respect for cross-cultural practices, particularly tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' customs.
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
• Commitment to applying the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice.
• Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Qualifications & Licence

• Desirable: Recognised Social Services qualification.
• Mandatory: Current clean full driver’s licence and willingness to drive Ministry vehicles; historical convictions will be evaluated individually.

Benefits and Remuneration

The role offers a competitive salary ranging from $68,371 to $75,501 annually. Significant training and professional development opportunities are provided to foster growth and excellence. The organization embraces diversity and upholds an inclusive workplace culture.

Application Process

Candidates should apply online with a CV and cover letter. Existing Oranga Tamariki employees should use their official email login. Recruitment for numerous vacancies across the country may extend processing times; applicants are thanked for their patience.

Additional Information

Applicants are expected to uphold the organization's code of conduct, which requires presenting to work free of drugs and alcohol. Queries regarding the role can be directed to the contact points provided upon application.