Youth Specialist – Staying on Track

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, proudly part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a global movement dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. Established with a mission to provide quality services to children and their caregivers, 54 reasons operates across every state and territory in Australia, including remote areas and capital cities. The organization employs approximately 600 people and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the diverse communities it serves.

Job Overview:
In this full-time permanent role, the Youth Specialist will work closely with young people aged 10-17 who are transitioning from youth detention back into their communities. The position is based in Mount Isa and is part of the multidisciplinary Staying on Track team, reporting to the Team Leader. The primary focus of this role is to provide tailored support to young individuals involved in the youth justice system, ensuring that their voices are central to the goal-setting process. The Youth Specialist will engage in intensive case work, follow-up, and referrals to other specialist services, while also embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into the design and delivery of programs. This role is crucial in helping young people meet their individual needs, increase their self-reliance, and achieve personal growth through education and employment opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Specialist will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Providing intensive case management support to young people involved in the youth justice system, ensuring a collaborative and client-centered approach.
• Conducting follow-ups and referrals to specialist services to address the diverse needs of the young individuals.
• Embedding culturally responsive practices by integrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into program design and evaluation.
• Monitoring and evaluating program outcomes to ensure effectiveness and continuous improvement.
• Supporting young people in setting and achieving personal goals, fostering independence and self-reliance.
• Engaging with local mentors and community leaders to facilitate reintegration and long-term wellbeing.
• Maintaining accurate records and documentation of case management activities and outcomes.
• Participating in team meetings and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate the following qualifications:

• Proven skills and experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, particularly those in contact with the justice system.
• Experience in youth work or case management roles, with a strong understanding of the complexities involved.
• Knowledge of complex intergenerational trauma and its impact on young people.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• An understanding of child protection concerns and a commitment to responding safely and effectively.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage and plan one's own workload effectively.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant qualification in social work, youth work, psychology, or a related field. Candidates with a strong background in community services or similar disciplines will also be considered. Continuous professional development and training will be encouraged to ensure that the Youth Specialist remains informed about best practices in youth support and case management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience working in youth services, particularly with young people involved in the justice system. Experience in case management and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with other service providers is essential. Familiarity with the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will be highly regarded.

Languages:
While English is the mandatory language for this position, proficiency in Aboriginal languages or other community languages would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with young people and their families.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time permanent position based in Mount Isa, Queensland. The organization offers generous relocation assistance for candidates moving to the area, along with a competitive salary package that includes a generous award rate salary, annual remote location allowance, and additional benefits such as return flights home every 12 months for relocated employees. The role includes 5 weeks of annual leave, professional supervision training, and access to an Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and ensuring a supportive work environment for all employees.