Residential Case Leaders - Military Style Academy in Palmerston North

Overview

Following the Military Style Academy (MSA) Pilot, Oranga Tamariki is well advanced in planning what future versions of the MSA may look like and is looking to deliver the programme again in 2026. The MSA is a kaupapa-driven, military-style residential programme for serious and persistent youth offenders and will provide an evidence-based, trauma-informed, alternative pathway for youth offenders to help them thrive within their whānau and communities. Working in partnership with mana whenua and other youth focused providers, the programme is intended to bring hope, healing, and sustained change.

Case Leaders at the Military Style Academy

Based inPalmerston North, at ourTe Au rere a te Tonga Youth Justice residence, the Case Leader is responsible for identifying and co-ordinating the required multidisciplinary input for a rangatahi, and lead programme design and the delivery of clinical and therapeutic intervention services by applying specialist knowledge. They also ensure that programmes and services are available to rangatahi on a 24 hour a day, 7 days a week basis and supports the wider Military Style Academy team to achieve the goals of the programme.

This opportunity may have variable hours and could require the Case Leader to work periods during the weekend. There are two full time, permanent positions available.

What you will bring

• An undergraduate degree level qualification in psychology, education, social work, nursing (mental health); a bachelor's level qualification is a requirement for this role.
• Understanding and experience in practicing trauma informed care and clinical practice working with rangatahi.
• Knowledge of 'Risks Needs Responsivity' (RNR) and practical applications in writing up care plans for rangatahi.
• Experience working with a multi-agency team
• Able to conduct assessments and write court reports
• Good understanding of the practical application of a range of different ecological and behavioural models
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture
• Hold a full, clean New Zealand Drivers Licence

What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $90,429 to $100,019 dependent on experience. We offer a vibrant and supportive team and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit

How to Apply

Apply online with your CV and answers to our application questions in lieu of a cover letter. If you are a current Oranga Tamariki kaimahi, please apply using your Oranga Tamariki email login.

Applications close 25 November 2025!

If you have any questions about role, please contact

If you are interested, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.

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