- Permanent Full time position available
- Role will be based at Manawatu
- Competitive salary starting from $111,020 - $133,696, depending on experience.
Are you an inspirational leader who is passionate about improving the outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and wh nau? We have an exciting opportunity available to lead practice in a permanent full-time role in the Manawatu region.
Mo te tunga | About the role
The team are motivated and committed to working with mokopuna and building wider relationships that assist the site achieving better results for wh nau. At the Manawatu site the team are extremely supportive of each other and benefit from a solid leadership team.
The Practice Leader role will be operating in a way that ensures all practice expectations and standards are maintained by Social Worker staff and include partnering colleagues where appropriate.
We are a site which is continually looking for innovative ways to shape our practice and provide opportunities for growth and learning. We are looking for a practice extraordinaire to champion social work practice across the site. You will coach, develop, mentor and supervise social work staff to help our tamariki, rangatahi and wh nau.
Ng pumanawatanga ou | What you will bring
The ideal candidate for this role is an experienced Social Worker who has worked in Aotearoa in a similar role in a non-governmental organisation (NGO) sector and/or someone who has worked within Oranga Tamariki previously.
Key requirements of the role include:
- Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB)
- A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB
- A full, clean, current driver's licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Expert experience in managing complex practice and casework
- The ability to work collaboratively with peers and stakeholders
- Sound knowledge of relevant legislation and experience of what Oranga Tamariki does and how we work
- Resilience, initiative and a proactive approach
- Empathy, patience and ability to see past what someone may be struggling with
- Sound judgement, time management and organisational skills
- The ability to manage risk and make tough decisions
- Cultural awareness and confidence to back yourself Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga M ori, and Pacific peoples' culture
Nou te rourou | What's in it for you
We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow.
- A team who enjoy working hard and having fun
- Support to achieve your goals through tailored training and career development opportunities
- Reimbursement for your annual practicing fee
- Rewarding and challenging work that truly makes a difference to the community
- Opportunities to work alongside various cultural groups, build your network and strengthen community relationships
- Access to a generous Southern Cross health plan and banking package with Westpac
Location and lifestyle | Manawatu Region
Move to the Manawatu where the grass is truly greener! The region has an ideal combination of vibrant city life and accessible rural pursuits, no matter what stage of life you're at, you'll love living in Manawatu. We've got everything you need to achieve the lifestyle you want, while not skimping on the essentials
Why live and work in the Manawatu Region
Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address. If you have any questions about role, please contact [email protected]
Applications close: Wednesday 27 August 2025, we will be reviewing and inviting candidates to interview as we go so get your application in now!! Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert once all roles are filled.
If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.