Senior Work and Study Specialist

headspace Devonport / Burnie offers innovative specialist youth services to individuals aged 12-25 across North West Tasmania. As the lead agency, Cornerstone Youth Services Inc. (CSYS) has been dedicated to supporting young people in the community for over a decade. Learn more at

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Senior Work and Study Specialist to join our team at headspace Devonport and headspace Burnie. This role is pivotal in overseeing our Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program, aimed at improving educational and employment outcomes for young people (up to 25 years old) managing mental health challenges. By leading the implementation of the IPS model, you will collaborate closely with our multidisciplinary team and external stakeholders to empower young individuals on their journey towards sustainable employment and educational success.

Role Responsibilities:

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing monitoring of the IPS program at headspace Devonport and Burnie.
• Establish program plans and provide regular progress reports to the headspace Centre Manager.
• Efficiently manage allocated resources for the IPS program.
• Provide day-to-day guidance and supervision to the Work & Study Specialist team.
• Deliver the IPS model of vocational assistance to young people (up to 25 years old) with mental illness.
• Manage a caseload of young people with mental illness, ensuring effective liaison with clinical teams, families, and employers to achieve positive outcomes.
• Participate in developing, implementing, and reviewing quality improvement initiatives.
• Build effective relationships with local employers, training providers, schools, and employment service providers to secure opportunities for young people.
• Ensure operational practices align with evidence-based supported employment principles.
• Maintain exemplary fidelity to the IPS model, collate necessary data for external reviews, and oversee review activities.
• Report program data to management and implement fidelity action plans for service improvement.
• Perform other duties as required within the scope of the role and level of experience.

Essential Requirements:

• Tertiary qualifications including/or significant experience in employment services, vocational rehabilitation, career development, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience or skills in vocation/education leadership including skills in supervising/mentoring staff to achieve program objectives.
• Extensive knowledge of issues that impact young people when accessing employment and/or educational opportunities.
• An understanding of the Individual Placement and Support model.
• Demonstrated experience developing good business relationships including the fostering of relationships that lead to employment opportunities.
• Knowledge of the employment services sector, Centrelink, and other state and federal employment initiatives that impact young people.

What We Offer:

• Competitive remuneration as per industry standards.
• Positive and supportive team environment committed to youth wellbeing.
• Access to full salary packaging.
• Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional support.
• Budget for professional development and external supervision.
• Additional benefits including Birthday leave, Health and Wellbeing leave and gifted leave over the Christmas / New Year period.
• Option of a Rostered Day Off once a month for full-time employees.

To Apply:

For further details about this rewarding opportunity, please contact Cheree Waddle, Clinical Lead via email at or by phoning

To obtain a Position Description, please email

Applications should include a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, a current resume, and must be submitted by Wednesday 10th December 2025.