Youth Officer - Riverina Youth Justice Centre (Wagga Wagga)

About the Role

Join the Riverina Youth Justice Centre team in Wagga Wagga as a Youth Officer, where you will play a vital role in guiding young individuals in custody to develop essential life skills, foster positive behaviors, and prepare for reintegration into the community. This position involves shift work across a 24/7 roster, including weekends and public holidays, supporting young people within a secure facility alongside a dedicated multidisciplinary team.

The employment opportunities include casual roles with potential for temporary and ongoing positions. Compensation is competitive, with casual rates at $36.20 per hour plus loading and permanent roles ranging from $71,777 to $80,129 annually, alongside superannuation and allowances.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide supervision and support to young people in custody concerning their daily routines and wellbeing.
• Encourage engagement in educational, vocational, recreational, and therapeutic programs.
• Serve as a positive role model to promote behavioral change.
• Respond effectively to challenging and complex situations.
• Maintain a secure and safe environment within the Youth Justice Centre.
• Collaborate with psychologists, caseworkers, and other specialists as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Accurately document operational and case management records.
• Support young people during court appearances, medical visits, or casework appointments.

Candidate Requirements

• Strong skills in communication and building relationships, with the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and engage young people in program participation.
• Ability to demonstrate resilience and sound judgement, staying composed during demanding situations and managing behaviors professionally.
• Commitment to teamwork and accountability to sustain a safe environment.
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding, especially respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the social contexts affecting young people.
• Possession of a minimum NSW P2 driver’s licence.
• Current First Aid certification (HLTAID011) or willingness to obtain.
• Valid Working With Children Check clearance.
• Ability to clear medical, fitness, and criminal history assessments.
• Availability to undertake a mandatory 5-week full-time paid Induction Training and Assessment Program (ITAP) prior to commencing work.

Additional Information

• The role involves shift work covering all days, including weekends and public holidays.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.
• A talent pool may be formed from applications for future temporary or ongoing vacancies, valid for up to 18 months.
• The department is committed to diversity and inclusion, supporting applications from varied backgrounds including persons with disabilities, women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, culturally and linguistically diverse people, carers, and more.
• Applicants are required to submit an updated résumé (maximum three pages) and a cover letter (maximum one page) addressing how they meet the role’s criteria.
• Assistance is available for candidates requiring recruitment adjustments.
• Support is offered for those relocating to regional NSW through initiatives providing guidance on housing, education, employment, and settling in.

What We Offer

• Structured and paid training designed to equip you for success.
• Clear pathways for career growth within Youth Justice and the wider Department.
• Competitive remuneration including shift premiums and allowances.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Access to health, wellbeing, and employee assistance programs.
• The chance to have a meaningful impact every day through your work.

Join an organization that makes a real difference by helping children, families, and communities. Become part of a public sector employer recognized for its commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and integrity.