Youth Officer
Riverina Youth Justice Centre -Wagga Wagga
Location: Riverina Youth Justice Centre -Wagga Wagga
Employment type: Casual and unlock opportunities for temporary and ongoing roles
Salary: $36.20 per hour + loading (casual). Temporary and Ongoing - $71,777 – $80,129 + super + allowances
Shift work required.
This role involves shift work across a 24/7 roster, including weekends and public holidays.
Training: Mandatory 5 weeks of full-time Induction Training & Assessment Program (ITAP) commence July 2026
Change Lives. Build a Career. Start Local in Wagga Wagga.
Working in regional NSW
Working in regional Youth Justice Centres offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while enjoying the benefits of regional living.
At the same time, regional Youth Justice roles offer deep impact and strong community purpose. Staff often build meaningful relationships with the community and see firsthand the positive changes young people make.
If you're looking for a rewarding career where you can make an impact while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle, regional Youth Justice could be the right opportunity for you.
Your role
As a Youth Officer, you will support young people in custody to develop life skills, build positive behaviours and prepare for their return to the community. You will supervise young people while encouraging participation in education programs and daily activities designed to reduce reoffending in a secure Youth Justice Centre.
You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting young people while maintaining a safe and structured environment
You’ll receive five weeks of paid, full-time training to ensure you feel confident and prepared before starting in the Centre.
What you’ll do
You’ll work as part of a multidisciplinary team within a secure Youth Justice Centre environment supporting young people alongside psychologists, caseworkers and other specialists where you will;
- Supervise and support young people with their daily routines and wellbeing
- Encourage participation in education, vocational, recreational and therapeutic programs
- Practice positive role modelling to support behaviour change
- Respond appropriately to challenging situations
- Maintain a safe and secure environment
- Work collaboratively with psychologists and caseworkers
- Complete operational and case management records
- Support young people attending court, medical or casework appointments
What we’re looking for
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
You can connect with people from diverse backgrounds and support young people to engage in programs and activities. - Resilience and sound judgement
You remain calm in challenging situations and manage behaviour professionally. - Teamwork and accountability
You work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a safe environment. - Cultural awareness and community understanding
You demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and understand the social and cultural complexities affecting young people and their communities.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Requirements
- Minimum NSW P2 Driver Licence
- Current First Aid certificate (HLTAID011) or willingness to obtain
- Working With Children Check clearance
- Ability to pass medical, fitness, and criminal history checks
- Availability to complete 5 weeks of full-time training (ITAP)
Download the role description.
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To apply directly via the DCJ Careers site click here. Search for the job and click the ‘Apply now’ button.
We focus on hiring people who share our commitment and goals of inclusion, collaboration, adaptability, courage and integrity. If you meet the essential requirements and the role resonates with you, please apply – you do not need to meet every desired requirement for us to want to talk to you.
What We Offer
- Paid, structured training to set you up for success
- Clear career pathways within Youth Justice and the broader DCJ network
- Competitive salary with shift penalties and allowances
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Health, wellbeing, and Employee Assistance Programs
- A meaningful role where you can make a real difference every day
Want more information? Visit our website to see more information on Working for us.
We do work that really matters
Working for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) provides lots of opportunities to make a real difference. We collaborate with other agencies and community partners, to improve lives and realise the potential of children, adults, families and communities. We're focused on breaking, rather than managing, disadvantage. It’s work that really matters.
Apply now and join Australia’s top public sector employer where we will support you and provide an exciting and flexible working environment!
Are you ready to join us?
Click apply and attach:
- An up-to-date résumé (maximum 3 pages)
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining how you meet the requirements of the role
Applications close 18 May 2026 at 11:00pm AEST.
Got a question?
For more information about the role, application process, or recruitment adjustments, please contact Merina Maharjan on 0473 430 764 or [email protected]
Visit Recruitment adjustments on the DCJ website to learn more.
Inclusion and Diversity lies at the heart of how we recruit
We continue to hire great people with a wide variety of skills, experience and backgrounds. This includes people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people identifying as LGBTIQ+, culturally and linguistically diverse people, carers and other diversity groups.
To find out what DCJ are doing to build an inclusive and diverse workforce, visit Inclusion and diversity on the DCJ website.
Other Information
A talent pool may be created for future ongoing and temporary roles and is valid for a period of up to 18 months.
For more information visit Applying for DCJ jobs on the DCJ website.
Thank you for your interest in this role. We look forward to receiving your application.
To keep up with recruitment opportunities at DCJ, follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CareersatDCJ/
The Welcome Experience
Thinking about moving to regional NSW? Get free, personalised support with housing, schools, jobs, and settling in. Learn more: www.nsw.gov.au/welcomeexperience
The careers site currently promotes this service on the ‘Discover roles with DCJ in regional NSW’ page.
