More than a job. Be the difference in a young person's life—one shift at a time.

At Kids Out West, we believe every child and young person deserves to feel safe, supported, valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

We don't just provide care—we build relationships, create nurturing home environments and help children and young people develop the confidence, skills and resilience they need to thrive.

We are seeking compassionate, reliable and committed Therapeutic Youth Workers to join our growing team across Maitland, Newcastle and the broader Hunter region.

Working with children and young people aged birth to 18 years who may have experienced trauma and have high and complex support needs, you will play an important role in providing consistent, trauma-informed care.

No two shifts are the same, but every shift is an opportunity to make a lasting difference.

What Does the Role Involve?

As a Therapeutic Youth Worker, you will provide direct care and support to children and young people in residential out-of-home care environments.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Building trusting, positive and meaningful relationships with children and young people.

- Providing a safe, nurturing and structured home environment where young people feel a sense of belonging.

- Supporting everyday routines, including education, appointments, family time, recreational activities and independent living skills.

- Mentoring, encouraging and role-modelling positive behaviours, healthy relationships and emotional regulation.

- Responding calmly, professionally and therapeutically to challenging situations, using trauma-informed approaches.





- Supporting children and young people to achieve their individual goals, celebrate their successes and develop confidence.

- Working collaboratively with colleagues, Service Leaders and other professionals to provide consistent, quality care.

- Maintaining accurate and timely documentation, including shift reports and incident records.

This isn't just about being present on shift. It's about being engaged, consistent and making every interaction count.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for people who genuinely care about improving outcomes for children and young people.

You will be someone who:

- Is compassionate, patient, resilient and emotionally mature.

- Can remain calm, respectful and skilled in challenging or unpredictable situations.

- Understands the importance of boundaries, consistency, teamwork and positive role-modelling.

- Communicates effectively and builds trusting relationships.

- Is reliable, accountable and takes pride in providing quality care.

- Is flexible, adaptable and comfortable working independently and as part of a team.

- Is willing to learn, accept feedback and continually develop their therapeutic practice.

Experience is valuable, but so are the right attitude, genuine commitment and willingness to learn.





Essential Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must have:

- A minimum of six months' relevant experience working with children and young people, or a strong motivation to develop a career in the sector.

- Availability to work a flexible casual roster, including afternoons, evenings, overnight sleepovers, weekends and public holidays.

- A current unrestricted driver's licence and access to a registered, comprehensively insured vehicle.

- Current First Aid and CPR certification (HLTAID011 and HLTAID009, or accepted equivalents).

- A current NSW Working With Children Check cleared for paid employment.

- A satisfactory National Criminal History Check issued within the previous six months, or willingness to obtain one.

- Willingness to consent to registration on the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian Residential Care Workers Register and meet relevant screening requirements.

- Completion of, or willingness to undertake, recognised three-day Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training.

Relevant qualifications in Community Services, Youth Work, Child Protection, Social Work or a related discipline are highly regarded.

Why Join Kids Out West?

We know that supporting children and young people with complex needs can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. That's why we believe in supporting the people who support our young people.

When you join Kids Out West, you'll benefit from:

- A supportive team culture – Be part of a friendly, approachable and values‑driven organisation where teamwork matters.

- 24/7 opera

📌 Therapeutic Youth Worker (Maitland)
🏢 Kids Out West
📍 Maitland