OPS3 CHILD AND YOUTH WORKER, RESIDENTIAL CARE - POOL
Department for Child Protection SA – Adelaide SA
Contract
No experience required
4mo ago, from Department for Child Protection SA
Do you want a role where every day can inspire a young life?
Do you want to earn while you learn, with paid training and a formal qualification?
Responsibilities
* Guide, support and empower young people in care
* Keep them safe
* Help them gain life skills
* Give them hope for the future
* Help with day-to-day routines – meals, homework, school drop-offs, and activities
* Create moments of fun and connection through sport, hobbies, and community events
* Provide trauma‑informed care and a calm presence when challenges arise
* Keep everyone safe, supported, and included
* Encourage 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, compassion, patience, and a good sense of humour go a long way. You will be:
Benefits of working with DCP
Get more than just a pay cheque. We value our staff and offer:
* Paid training: we'll pay you to complete the nationally recognised Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention while you work, plus provide on‑job mentoring
* Leave & entitlements: up to 5 weeks annual leave (for full‑time employees), 12% superannuation, and shift penalties
* Recognition: our annual DCP Recognition Awards recognises staff excellence
* 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 over 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools across Australia through our Fitness Passport program for you and your family.
About You
You don't need to be perfect – you just need to care, listen, and be willing to learn.
* Stay calm when things get tricky
* Build trust with young people quickly
* Keep boundaries while showing empathy
* Adapt to days that never look the same
* SA Driver's Licence (P2 or above)
* SA Working with Children Check
* First Aid Certificate – HLTAID012 (Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting)
* Ability to complete an 8‑week, full‑time induction program
* Availability to work AM, PM, night shifts, weekends, and public holidays
Night shift‑only rosters (full‑time, part‑time, or casual) are available. Just let us know your preference in your application.
Desired background and qualifications
* Education
* Disability support
* Aged care
* Youth work
* Community services
* Valid Australian working visa with at least 6 months before expiry from the next intake date
* Student Visa holders (subclass 500) must not be restricted to 48 hours of work per fortnight
Recruitment and selection process
We recruit all year. Successful applicants join our 12‑month Recruitment Pool until their preferred intake date.
To apply, we will guide you through each of the five steps (subject to passing each step):
* 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).
What else do you need to know?
Our residential care homes run 24/7 because young people in care need support around the clock. Shifts rotate, including weekends and public holidays, with varying start/finish times so think about whether shift work suits your lifestyle before applying.
Other information
Before you apply, review the:
* Role Description
* Job Demands Sheet
* FAQs
If you still have questions, email us at **************@sa.gov.au.
#J-18808-Ljbffr