Therapeutic Support Worker

**Position Title: Therapeutic Key Worker - YOUth Empowerment Learning Program (Y-ELP)**

**Work Type**:Part-time | Casual

Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday and occasional Saturday days.

**Hours**:8.30am-3.30pm

**Location**:Cranbourne / Pakenham (with induction/training at 29 Foote Street, Templestowe Lower, VIC)

**Categories**: Child, Youth and Families - Residential/Community Services

**Reports to**:Therapeutic Lead

**About Empower YOUth**
Empower YOUth OoHC Services is dedicated to improving the lives of young people through trauma-informed, research-driven programs. Our mission is to empower youth by providing innovative, supportive, and hands-on learning experiences that foster growth, resilience, and life skills.

**About the Opportunity**
We’re seeking Therapeutic Key Workers to join our YOUth Empowerment Learning Program (Y-ELP) in Pakenham. In this unique role, you’ll spend 1-3 days per week with a young person, working on scheduled projects such as building and exploring the science behind LEGO models, using local libraries, and accessing community resources. You’ll play a key part in supporting each participant’s development in a fun, engaging, and meaningful way.
You’ll receive full induction and ongoing support at our Templestowe Lower head office, ensuring you feel confident and connected to the wider Empower YOUth team.

**Key Responsibilities**
Direct Support & Y-ELP Project

**Delivery**:
*Provide one-on-one, trauma-informed support to children and youth, focusing on hands-on, project-based learning (e.g., LEGO builds, science activities, library visits).
*Encourage curiosity, creativity, and skill-building through scheduled Y-ELP activities.
*Assist in the delivery of respite and learning sessions, ensuring safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

**Behaviour Support**:
*Implement behaviour support plans and therapeutic strategies as directed, tailored to each participant’s needs.
*Monitor and document behavioural observations, progress, and engagement in Y-ELP activities.

**Environment & Resources**:
*Ensure activity spaces are safe, organised, and well-stocked for each session.
*Make effective use of local resources (libraries, community centres) to enhance the learning experience.

**Collaboration & Communication**:
*Work closely with caregivers, team members, and external professionals to support holistic care planning.
*Maintain clear, professional communication and accurate, confidential case notes.

**Qualifications & Skills**:

- Minimum Certificate IV in a relevant field (child care, youth work, disability, community services) required.
- Experience supporting children/youth, ideally in a therapeutic, educational, or residential setting.
Interest in hands-on, project-based learning and willingness to get creative with activities.
- Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) behaviour support strategies.
*Strong interpersonal skills—friendly, empathetic, and able to build rapport with young people.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
*Commitment to Empower YOUth’s values of empowerment, thriving, acceptance, and resilience.

**What We Offer**:

- Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
- Flexible, family-friendly hours.
- Ongoing professional development and training in therapeutic and trauma-informed practices.
*A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative team environment.

How to Apply
Ready to help empower young people in your local community? Please upload your:
Cover letter (1 page outlining your suitability for the role)
Current resume (max 3 pages)

Empower YOUth is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

**Job Type**: Casual

Pay: $37.50 - $41.50 per hour

Expected hours: 6 - 20 per week

Schedule:

- Afternoon shift
- Morning shift

Licence/Certification:

- First Aid Certification (preferred)
- Working with Children Check (required)
- National Police Certificate (required)
- Driver Licence (required)

Work Authorisation:

- Australia (required)

Willingness to travel:

- 75% (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Expected Start Date: 14/07/2025