Youth Practitioner

• Full Time
• Application Closes 09 Apr 2026
• Auckland - West Auckland
• Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselor

Help rangatahi take charge of their future. Be part of meaningful change.

Are you passionate about uplifting young people — especially those facing challenges like alcohol or drug use? Do you want a role where your work truly matters, where you can serve your community and make a positive difference every day? This could be the opportunity for you.

Odyssey’s Stand Up! and Amplify! programme is grounded in connection, respect, and real impact — working alongside predominantly Māori and Pacific rangatahi in secondary schools across South Auckland to help them realise their strengths, grow their confidence, and step into their potential. We value culture, identity, and the important role of whānau and community in each young person’s journey.

We’re looking for a Youth Practitioner who is warm, grounded, and relatable — someone who can build genuine relationships and walk alongside rangatahi with care and understanding. If you’re motivated to support young people to lead their own growth, honour their stories, and strengthen their futures, we’d love to hear from you.

What you’ll actually be doing:

• Running both group and one-on-one sessions with rangatahi in local secondary schools
• Supporting young people to set their own goals — and smash them
• Being a safe, honest, encouraging presence in their lives
• Collaborating with a passionate team who have your back

A bit about you:

You're probably the kind of person who just gets young people. You know how to listen without judging. You’re consistent, empathetic, and you don’t just talk — you do.

Ideally, you’ll also have:

• Some experience (up to a year is sweet) working with youth in health, mental health or addiction settings
• A relevant tertiary qualification (Level  7) like Social Work, Psychology, Education, Counselling etc.
• A solid understanding of substance use and the impacts it can have
• Knowledge of tikanga Māori, Pacific cultures, and how to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi in your work
• Confidence in working independently, but love being part of a team
• Great communication skills — you know how to connect
• A full, clean driver’s licence (you’ll be on the move between schools)

What’s in it for you:

• $69,076 – $79,393 salary (based on registration and experience)
• 22 days annual leave + 5 days paid study leave
• Full-time gig: Monday to Friday, 7.30am–4.00pm
• Training, supervision, cultural support and heaps of professional development
• A fun, energetic team that really cares about what they do
• A chance to do something that matters — every. single. day.

Why this matters:

You’ll be part of a programme that doesn't just tick boxes — it uplifts. You’ll help shape spaces where rangatahi feel heard, seen, and supported to create real, lasting change in their lives.

Sound like you? Bring your energy, honesty, and heart — we’ll bring the training, support, and an epic team to back you up.

To apply, please send us your CV and a cover letter, and complete the additional information questionnaire online. Please contact Michelle in the People and Capabilities team on 021 578262 for more information regarding this position. 

Closing date: Thursday, 9 April 2026

Please note that Police and Oranga Tamariki clearance checks are required for this role. 

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.