• 1 x Permanent position available
• Role will be based at our Invercargill Site!
• Competitive salary starting from $111,020 to $133,968 depending on experience.

Are you an inspirational leader who is passionate about improving the outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau? We have an exciting opportunity available to lead practice in a permanent full-time role in our community

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Our staff are motivated and committed to working with mokopuna and building wider relationships that assist the site achieving better results for whānau. Kaimahi are extremely supportive of each other and benefit from a solid leadership team. Site resources are being increased and different ways of working are being tried.

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 whānau.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

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
• 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 Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/


Invercargill is known for its great quality of life, slow pace and good public services. It is a desirable place to live. The city works hard to keep its environment clean and green, which helps make its residents healthy and happy.

The average house price in Invercargill is significantly lower than in other major New Zealand cities, making Invercargill an attractive option for homebuyers looking for value for money. The affordable housing market, coupled with a low cost of living, allows residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with urban living.

Live and work in Invercargill

Me pēhea 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 Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz

Applications close: Sunday 12th January, Please note that due to Christmas close down, applications may not be reviewed until the advert closes with interviews to occur late January.

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 influence of both drugs and alcohol.