Youth Practitioner
An exciting full-time permanent opportunity is available in Odyssey’s Youth Justice Programme within Korowai Manaaki.
We work in partnership with Youth Justice to deliver an alcohol and other drug programme that focuses on education, reflection, and positive change for rangatahi. Our work is about creating hopeful, safe spaces where young people can explore their choices, reflect on their experiences, and identify new pathways forward.
In this role you will be a positive influence and motivator, supporting rangatahi to recognise their strengths, build their confidence, and identify their own goals for change. Our approach values the importance of whānau, identity, culture, and connection in supporting young people to thrive.
Based in Manukau, you will support rangatahi who are currently placed within a Youth Justice residence. You will co-facilitate group sessions and deliver a structured alcohol and drug education programme. You will also complete individual clinical assessments and provide tailored interventions, working closely with the wider Odyssey Youth team.
The ideal applicant will have:
- A degree in Alcohol and Drug counselling, Social Work, Youth Work, or other social service field
- Registration with DAPAANZ as an alcohol and other drug practitioner, or the ability to become registered in a reasonable timeframe
- The ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- The ability to practice within a specific treatment model
- A passion for working with young people and their families
- Knowledge or experience of working within a Youth Justice environment
- Knowledge of child and adolescent development and of addiction issues
- Excellent engagement, communication and motivational enhancement skills
- Experience working with behaviour change
- Commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi
In return we offer:
- $69,076 and $79,393 per annum (depending on your relevant qualifications/registration, plus a $2000 location allowance for working within a justice environment)
- 22 days annual leave and 5 days paid study leave per annum
- An allocated pool car for transport to and from work
- Professional and career development opportunities
- A dynamic and supportive team who are passionate about what they do
More about us:
Odyssey has supported thousands of New Zealanders whose lives are affected by alcohol, drug or other addiction challenges. We wholeheartedly believe that everyone living in New Zealand should have the opportunity to live life to the fullest, to feel hopeful about their future and to have meaningful relationships with friends and whānau.
To apply, please send us your CV and a cover letter, and complete the additional information questionnaire online. For all enquiries, please contact Michelle in the People and Capabilities team on 021 578262.
Closing date: Monday, 4 May 2026
Odyssey is an equal opportunity employer and a smoke free organisation. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We particularly encourage applications from Māori and Pacific peoples.
