Youth Worker, Whakamaru

Empower, transform, and bring fullness of life

Wellington City Mission is seeking an experienced Youth Worker to walk alongside rangatahi living in transitional housing and support them toward long-term stability and wellbeing.

About the role

The Youth Worker will:

  • Develop, coordinate, and deliver therapeutic and lifestyle-based activities for manuhiri connected to Whakamaru.
  • Facilitate engaging on-site and off-site programmes that foster community connection and enrich the lives of residents. These may include CBT- and DBT-informed coping skills, building emotional regulation and distress tolerance, developing assertive communication, strengthening healthy relationships, and other practical life skills.
  • Promote positive lifestyle options such as gym sessions, art-based activities, recreation, yoga, and whānau-focused initiatives.
  • Hold a caseload of rangatahi residents, supporting them to identify and achieve their holistic goals, including securing permanent housing.
  • Advocate for rangatahi and liaise with external health and social service providers as required.
  • Participate in regular clinical supervision and ongoing professional development.

About you

We are looking for someone who:

  • Has proven experience working with rangatahi experiencing complex mental health and substance use challenges.
  • Demonstrates excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with rangatahi from diverse backgrounds.
  • Brings a compassionate, strengths-based, and client-centred approach, with a genuine commitment to fostering community.
  • Has knowledge of the social services sector and experience supporting vulnerable populations.
  • Possesses strong problem-solving skills and thrives in collaborative environments.
  • Is available to work flexibly, including around key holiday periods (e.g., Christmas, Matariki, Easter), recognising that seasonal activities can significantly uplift the wellbeing of our manuhiri.

How to apply

Please send your CV, Cover Letter, and completed Application Form to Workwithus@wcm.org.nz

Applications close on Monday, 2nd March 2026.

Please note: We reserve the right to short list and interview candidates as they are submitted and may appoint this position before the close date.