Social Worker

Social Worker

Permanent, Part Time (22.5 hours a week)

Wellington

About the role – Kōrero mō te tūranga

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Social Worker to join Refugee Trauma Recovery programme in Wellington.

The Social Worker works alongside the Clinical Team to provide specialised mental health social work support services to refugees of all ages who have experienced the trauma of war and torture, of refugee life and displacement.

Work with clients will include psychosocial assessments, the development of care plans, and case and risk management. The Social Worker may also provide consultation, liaison, training and support to other agencies that have refugee clients. The Social Worker may deliver group programmes that enhance the core counselling service.

In this role, we are looking for someone who has the capacity to:

• Provide comprehensive assessments, social work support, micro-counselling and skills development services to clients.
• Demonstrate strengths-based social work and cross-cultural understanding both internally and externally.
• Maintain communication with volunteers alongside the volunteer coordinator to assist volunteers on placement.
• Co-facilitate therapeutic groups, supervise and be involved in wider service development as well as supervising other team members ie: Social Work Intern, Cross Cultural Workers and Volunteers.
• Provide public education and raise awareness with local mainstream service providers on best practice work with former refugee client.
• Assist with settlement tasks as required, in conjunction with volunteers and employees.

Who are we looking for? – Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We encourage you to apply for this role if you have (at least some of) these competencies:

• A qualification in Social Work recognised by the NZ Social Workers Registration Board.
• Full registration with the NZ Social Workers Registration Board.
• Relevant specialist post-graduate training in mental health would be an advantage.
• Minimum of three years’ relevant work experience.
• In-depth experience in service delivery and direct client contact with families and individuals from a different cultural background.

Benefits you can expect include ongoing support, including professional development opportunities; being part of a passionate team of colleagues focused on supporting our humanitarian mission; and enjoying working for a well-respected humanitarian organisation.

About New Zealand Red Cross

New Zealand Red Cross is part of the world's largest humanitarian network, with over 13,000 members and employees dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilising the power of humanity and increasing community resilience.

Guided by our Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality, we support people in times of need and help strengthen their resilience.

We are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free work environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We encourage all qualified persons who share our values and want to contribute to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace to apply.

Why work with us?

At New Zealand Red Cross, you’ll join a passionate and diverse team that values your contributions and shares your commitment to making a difference.

We are committed to represent the communities we serve, increasing diversity throughout our people and leadership, and creating a flexible and healthy work environment. Many roles offer flexible virtual/hybrid options to help our employees balance their personal and professional priorities.

Our benefits include:

• Five weeks annual leave
• Career development opportunities
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Discounts on Southern Cross health insurance

We also encourage employee networks, including Takatāpui and Rainbow Network, Rōpū Hāpai Māori and the Sustainability Network, to foster connection and collaboration across our diverse workforce.

Click below to download the job description and to apply for this position please click the 'Apply Now' button to be taken to the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page. If you are already viewing this via the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page, please click the active job description link below.

Please submit your application online, as we’re unable to accept direct applications. Your application must include the following documentation:

• A recent copy of CV/Resume

• Cover Letter

• Passport

• Legal Right to Work In New Zealand

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this job. Applications close at 05:00 pm on 13/10/2026.

If you wish to discuss this opportunity or for further information, please contact Alison Jones at alison.jones@redcross.org.nz.

Note: We reserve the right to close applications before the closing date, so please register your interest early.

Click here for the Job Description