Social Worker - Onehunga

About the Position

We are currently recruiting qualified and experienced social workers for permanent roles based at our Onehunga location in Auckland. The position offers an attractive annual salary ranging from $81,206 to $97,557, determined by experience.

Our Onehunga office is comprised of a dynamic and diverse team dedicated to maintaining a supportive yet enjoyable working environment. If you seek a workplace where your professional growth is encouraged and valued, consider joining us. Key attributes we look for include empathy, resilience, and integrity.

Role Overview

This active role involves working closely within the community alongside whānau and partnering social services to deliver coordinated responses that address the needs of families we support. Our primary focus is to secure sustainable support that protects and keeps tamariki (children) safely with their whānau whenever possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Listening to and uplifting the voices of tamariki and rangatahi (youth) while supporting them and their whānau toward positive change.
• Collaborating with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds and communities.
• Conducting initial safety assessments and checks for tamariki, rangatahi, and their whānau.
• Organizing and facilitating hui (meetings) that empower whānau to increase their caregiving capabilities.
• Planning and implementing intervention strategies aimed at maintaining tamariki and rangatahi within their family environments.
• Working in partnership with community providers, non-governmental organisations, and government agencies.
• Advocating on behalf of tamariki and rangatahi to ensure access to necessary support and resources for their development.

Candidate Profile

We welcome applications from experienced social workers familiar with working in Aotearoa New Zealand’s non-governmental organisations or government sectors like Oranga Tamariki. Recent graduates with the relevant qualifications and registrations are also encouraged to apply.

Essential Qualifications and Skills:

• Registration with the New Zealand Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) and a current Annual Practicing Certificate.
• A social work qualification recognized by the SWRB.
• A heartfelt commitment to strength-based practice methodologies.
• Possession of a full, clean, and current driver's license.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong resilience, problem-solving abilities, and flexibility in work approach.
• Proficiency with PCs and the Microsoft Office Suite, including strong report writing capabilities.
• A genuine dedication to working alongside whānau and fostering their empowerment.
• Emotional intelligence, teamwork, and leadership qualities.
• A sound understanding and respect for cross-cultural practices, particularly knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' cultures.
• Senior social workers are warmly invited to apply.

About Our Organisation

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is dedicated to placing tamariki and rangatahi at the centre of all we do. Our vision is for New Zealand to be the best place worldwide to be a child. We are committed to working in partnership with hapū, iwi, and Māori organisations to create suitable solutions for children and young people requiring support.

We uphold values of aroha (love), respect for mana (authority and dignity), integrity, whakapapa (genealogy), and recognize oranga (wellbeing) as a continuous journey.

What We Offer

Our organisation provides a fair and impartial remuneration package with opportunities for annual progression based on experience and tenure. We value a vibrant, supportive team environment, flexible working options, and holistic wellbeing support. Additionally, we provide extensive training and professional development to help you thrive professionally and personally. We encourage diversity and actively foster an inclusive and respectful workplace. This role offers a meaningful chance to contribute your expertise toward the wellbeing of children and youth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply with a CV and cover letter. Current Oranga Tamariki employees must apply using their official email. For queries regarding the role, contact details are provided within our internal communication channels. Applications close on August 31, 2026.

Additional Information

Before applying, candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with our code of conduct, which outlines expectations including attending work free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.