Overview
Mount Gambier – OPS3 Child and Youth Worker, Residential Care – Pool
Reference 2M366A8F • External Vacancy – Open to Everyone
Division: Department for Child Protection
Location: Mount Gambier
Salary Range: $67,589 – $72,033
Classification: OPX3 • Engagement Type: Term
Closing Date: 30 Jun 2026 11:00 PM
Role Highlights
OPS3 ($67,589 – $72,033 per annum + 12% Super). Shift penalties may apply and can increase salary by up to approximately $15,000 per annum. Multiple positions available (Pool Vacancy).
Salary packaging and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support for you and your family; leave loading.
Organisations: Department for Child Protection, Limestone Coast region.
Responsibilities
* Guiding, supporting and empowering young people in care
* Keeping them safe
* Helping them gain life skills
* Giving them hope for the future
* Day-to-day routines support: meals, homework, school drop-offs, and activities
* Creating moments of fun and connection through sport, hobbies and community events
* Offering trauma-informed care and a calm presence when challenges arise
* Keeping everyone safe, supported and included
* Encouraging the skills young people need to build confidence and thrive in the community
About the Role
Our mission is simple: every young person deserves safety, stability, and the chance to reach their potential.
As a Child & Youth Worker, you will bring compassion, patience and a sense of humour. You will be:
* Building trust with young people quickly
* Maintaining boundaries while showing empathy
* Adapting to days that never look the same
Benefits
* Paid training: you will be paid to complete the nationally recognised Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention while you work, with on-the-job mentoring
* Leave and entitlements: up to 5 weeks annual leave (full-time), 12% superannuation, shift penalties
* Recognition: annual DCP Recognition Awards
* Room to grow: ongoing training and career development opportunities
* Support: free counselling for you and your family through our Employee Assistance Program
* Self-care: access to Fitness Passport program for you and your family (over 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools)
Qualifications and Requirements
* SA Driver's Licence (P2 or above)
* SA Working with Children Check
* First Aid Certificate – HLTAID012
* Ability to complete an 8-week, full-time induction program
* Availability to work AM, PM, night shifts, weekends and public holidays
* Life experience and/or transferable skills from education, disability support, aged care, youth work, or community services
* Valid Australian working visa with at least 6 months before expiry from the next intake date; student visa holders must not be restricted to 48 hours of work per fortnight
Recruitment and Selection
We recruit year-round. Successful applicants join a 12-month Recruitment Pool until their preferred intake date. The process includes:
* Online application
* Phone screening
* Medical and psychological assessments (paid by us)
* Reference checks
* Assessment Centre
All successful applicants complete the same 8-week induction (including night shift-only applicants).
Working Arrangements
Residential care homes operate 24/7. Shifts rotate including weekends and public holidays with varying start/finish times. Consider whether shift work suits your lifestyle before applying.
Application Instructions
To apply, submit a 2-page cover letter addressing the key selection criteria, a current resume, and responses to the application questions. For assistance with technical issues, contact the help desk.
Note: The Department for Child Protection promotes diversity and flexible working arrangements, including part-time opportunities. Applicants are encouraged to discuss flexible arrangements.
Contact and Additional Information
Contact: DCP Recruitment Team (email preferred): DCPRecruitment@sa.gov.au
Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and abilities.
Important Notice
Click Save and Next to retain your application; you can resume by clicking Continue.
About Our Organization
The Department for Child Protection protects children, young people and their families in South Australia, providing support to vulnerable individuals to be safe, strong and connected.
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