Youth Support Worker

He kōrero mō mātou | About Us:

Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa is a national provider of mental health, addiction, disability, offender rehabilitation, wellbeing, and housing services. We believe that everyone is capable of living full and rich lives in their communities of choice. In every aspect of our work, we are committed to helping whānau be the best they can be.

He kōrero mō te tūranga | The Role:

In this role, you’ll walk alongside Rangatahi (Youth) as they build confidence, develop life skills, strengthen their connections with whānau and community, and take meaningful steps toward independence. Your empathy, encouragement and consistency will help create a safe, supportive environment where young people can feel heard, valued and supported to thrive.

You’ll work closely with our clinical team and other support staff, building trusting relationships and providing practical, day-to-day support that makes a genuine difference. This is a role where the small things matter, being present, listening without judgement, celebrating progress and helping Rangatahi recognise their own strengths and potential.

If you’re compassionate, people-focused and motivated to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, we’d love to hear from you.

We have two permanent part-time opportunities available at our Lower Hutt services:

• Permanent Part-Time (28 hours per week)

• Permanent Part-Time (16 hours per week)

What you'll be doing:

• Building genuine, trusting and respectful relationships with Rangatahi and their whānau, creating a supportive environment where they feel heard and valued
• Providing practical, day-to-day support that helps Rangatahi feel safe, confident and connected while working towards their individual goals
• Encouraging Rangatahi to recognise their strengths, build confidence and take positive steps towards the things that matter to them
• Sharing your ideas, observations and insights in team hui and working collaboratively with colleagues to provide the best possible support
• Keeping accurate and thoughtful documentation, ensuring information is recorded with care, respect and professionalism

He kōrero mōu | About You:

You’re warm, compassionate and grounded, with the ability to stay calm, flexible and solution-focused when things don’t go to plan. You genuinely believe in people’s strengths and their ability to grow, overcome challenges and create positive change in their lives.

You enjoy building authentic, respectful relationships while maintaining clear and healthy professional boundaries. You bring empathy, cultural awareness and a willingness to listen, learn and understand different perspectives.

You’re committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to creating culturally safe, inclusive spaces where Rangatahi and whānau feel respected, heard and supported to be themselves.

Ideally you will bring:

• Experience in a similar support role
• A Level 4 (or higher) qualification in Mental Health and Addiction
• A current First Aid Certificate including CPR (or willingness to obtain)
• A Full New Zealand Driver Licence
• Eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand

Ko Tā Mātou Mahi | We Offer

Join us to experience a work environment where values are not just words on a page. You’ll be proud to apply your skills and make a difference every day at one of Aotearoa’s largest for‑purpose organisations.

We also offer:

• Hourly rate: $25.67 – $30.52, depending on experience
• Access to extensive wellbeing support – including counselling, budgeting advice, coaching services, and mental health workshops to support your hauora (wellbeing) and personal growth
• Staff discounts with Southern Cross Health, PB Tech, Harvey Norman, Anytime Fitness, and more
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Generous leave entitlements, including wellbeing leave, cultural leave, and study leave
• Inclusive and supportive teams grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and our Pou
• Opportunities to grow within one of Aotearoa’s largest for‑purpose organisations

Join us to experience a work environment where values are not just words on a page

Apply your skills and make a difference every day at Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa.

Your Career – For People, For Purpose