Senior Youth Worker – Youth Justice & Employment Pathways (SQW), Full-Time Max Term - Mackayuth Worker

At Life Without Barriers, we’re all about creating safe, supportive environments where children and young people can thrive. Every day, we work closely with families, carers, and communities to help shape brighter futures.

From supporting children and families to empowering people with disability, mental health, or those seeking refuge — we’re here to break down barriers and build better lives.

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Youth Worker to deliver employment-focused case management to young people across the Mackay community who are currently or formerly involved with Youth Justice, or at risk of offending.

The role sits within our Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) program and supports young people to transition into employment, training and independence. Support is delivered through SQW pathways, including Next Step Plus and Extended Post Care.

This is a community-based, outreach role (not residential), working Monday to Friday business hours, with flexibility for employer visits, training delivery and community activities. You will work within a small, outcomes-focused team and report to the Program Manager.

This position is a Full-Time Max Term Contract ending 12/11/27, based in our Mackay office.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver strengths-based, trauma-informed case management
• Develop and monitor individual participation and employment plans
• Deliver job readiness and pre-employment activities
• Coordinate training, work experience and employment opportunities
• Provide mentoring and post-placement support to improve retention
• Support young people to overcome barriers to participation and work
• Build strong relationships with employers, RTOs and community partners
• Maintain accurate records and reporting to meet SQW contract requirements

Skills & Experience

• Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (or similar), or working toward
• Experience supporting young people in employment, transition, post-care, youth, AOD or mental health settings
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed and culturally safe practice
• Confidence engaging young people with complex needs
• Strong organisation, documentation and compliance skills
• Valid Australian Driver’s Licence and willingness to travel locally
• Current First Aid and CPR (or willingness to obtain)

Successful candidates will be required to clear probity checks including National Criminal History Record Check and Working with Children Check (where relevant to the role).

What We Offer

• Monday–Friday work (no residential shifts)
• Salary packaging up to $15,900 + meal & entertainment card
• Monthly RDO (optional)
• Supportive, values-led team environment
• Ongoing training and development

How to Apply

Submit your resume and cover letter in one document via Apply.
For enquiries or adjustments, contact Joelene at recruitment@lwb.org.au (subject: SYW SQW Mackay).

Candidates with disabilities who require adjustments to the recruitment process or the application form in an alternate format can visit https://www.lwb.org.au/careers/ for information on our access and inclusion work and how to contact us directly.

Applications are reviewed as received.
Closing date: midnight Thursday 12th November (subject to change).

Advertised: 29 Oct 2026 E. Australia Standard Time
Applications close: 12 Nov 2026 23:55 E. Australia Standard Time

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