Allied Support Worker - Ōamaru

About the opportunity

Oranga Tamariki is hiring for permanent Allied Support Worker positions in Ōamaru. These roles are designed for people wanting to build their career while making a real difference to the wellbeing of tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau. The positions have been created to give dependable operational support to frontline Social Work teams and to meet ongoing demand across sites. In contrast to earlier fixed-term versions, these permanent appointments are intended to provide stability and continuity within the workforce.

Role overview

Allied Support Workers operate under the guidance of qualified Social Workers and supervisors. Their contribution helps Social Workers focus on statutory duties and professional practice, while still supporting better outcomes for children, young people, and families. This is a non-regulated role. It is not a Social Worker training position, nor a para-social worker role. It does not include social work practice or managing a caseload.

Key duties

The role supports Social Workers with home visits, other community engagements, administration, and the transport of tamariki and rangatahi. Work is carried out across the site based on day-to-day operational needs.

• Provide flexible, on-demand assistance across the site according to team priorities.
• Help Social Workers record case notes and other information in CYRAS and other systems.
• Transport tamariki and rangatahi safely between locations such as appointments, school, and sports.
• Support the preparation and administrative work for Family Group Conferences.
• Assist with the care of tamariki and rangatahi when they are out of school or waiting for placements.
• Complete administrative arrangements for children and young people in placement or moving between programmes.
• Support children and young people at school, including settling in or returning after time away.
• Carry out supervised access and visitation, including driving clients, overseeing contact, and preparing contact notes.
• Build effective working relationships with colleagues, external partners, and stakeholders.
• Be available for some weekend and after-hours work.

What you need to bring

This is a high-trust, safety-critical children’s worker position, so sound judgement, reliability, and emotional strength are essential. The preferred background includes community support experience and familiarity with working alongside Māori and/or Pasifika communities. The role also calls for confidence in difficult emotional situations, strong communication, and the ability to work well with others.

Additional requirements

A recognised qualification in Social Services would be an advantage. A current full driver’s licence is required, along with willingness to drive Ministry vehicles. Historic convictions may be considered individually.

What’s on offer

The remuneration range starts at NZD 68,371 and goes up to NZD 75,501. Oranga Tamariki also provides meaningful training and professional development opportunities, alongside a commitment to inclusion, diversity, and respectful working practices.

Application information

Applications close on Monday, 6 July 2026. CVs will be reviewed as they are received, and the vacancy may be closed earlier if all positions are filled. Applicants should submit a CV and covering letter online. Current Oranga Tamariki employees must apply using their Oranga Tamariki email login. The recruitment process may take longer than usual because a large number of roles are being filled across the country.

Code of conduct

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the organisation’s code of conduct. It sets expectations for employees and requires them to attend work free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.