Job Description

Youth Coach – Whai Marama Youth Services

About Us

Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa is a kaupapa Māori organisation based on a whānau-first, tikanga-based, wellbeing approach. Our organisation works to a model of care centred around our pou (guiding principles) of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, arohatanga, rangatiratanga, tika and pono. We deliver health and social services across the lifespan and have a team of over 100 people working across Hamilton city and beyond.

About the Role

Whai Marama Youth Services (WMYS) is seeking a full-time Youth Coach to support rangatahi aged 15–19 receiving the Youth Payment (YP), Young Parent Payment (YPP), or NEET support. The Youth Coach plays an essential role in walking alongside rangatahi as they build independence, wellbeing, and long-term life skills. You will support young people to navigate education, training, employment pathways, parenting responsibilities, budgeting, and everyday challenges in a way that is grounded in kaupapa Māori values.

This role sits within a supportive and highly collaborative team, guided by the Whai Marama Youth Services Team Lead.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one coaching to rangatahi, supporting them to achieve their YP/YPP/NEET goals
• Build strong, trusting relationships with rangatahi, their whānau, and community partners
• Work with rangatahi to develop personalised plans focused on education, training, wellbeing, and independence
• Support young parents navigating parenting responsibilities, routines, and access to services
• Facilitate life skills development including budgeting, communication, social skills, and time management
• Maintain clear documentation, case notes, and reporting requirements in line with MSD expectations
• Coordinate with internal teams and external providers to ensure wrap-around support
• Participate in kaupapa-based activities, organisational events, and training opportunities

Skills

• Ability to build rapport quickly and maintain supportive, respectful relationships
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Confidence working with rangatahi from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to motivate, guide, and empower young people towards positive life changes
• Organisational skills and comfort managing a dynamic caseload
• Cultural competency and willingness to learn kaupapa Māori approaches

Experience

• Experience working with rangatahi or in youth development, social services, education, or community settings
• Experience managing caseloads or providing mentoring/coaching support is advantageous
• Understanding of MSD youth support pathways is beneficial but not required

Qualifications and Education

• Qualification in youth work, social services, education, or related field preferred, or relevant experience
• Full New Zealand driver licence and ability to pass Police and OT vetting are required

Benefits

• Work in a kaupapa Māori organisation rooted in community service and cultural integrity
• Monthly supervision and ongoing development opportunities
• Access to medical insurance
• Supportive team environment with a strong commitment to whanaungatanga and collective uplift

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re passionate about supporting rangatahi and committed to a whānau-first, tikanga-based wellbeing approach, we’d love to hear from you. This role offers the opportunity to walk alongside young people, uplift their wellbeing, and contribute to their long-term independence.

Join us in making a difference – apply now.

Applications close 27th of April 2026.