Youth Mentor - Contractor - Tauranga

WHO WE ARE

MacStrong Mentors exists to walk alongside rangatahi who need it most. We mentor young people, helping them build confidence, find direction and make meaningful change in their lives.

We're a purpose-driven team that genuinely cares about the young people we work with and the people who support them every day.

GROWING ACROSS AOTEAROA

MacStrong is expanding into new regions across New Zealand and we're looking for the right people to grow with us. We believe the best mentors are often already embedded in their communities. They know the local landscape, the people and what it actually takes to connect with young people in their area. That local knowledge is something you can't teach and it's exactly what we're looking for.

Wherever you are in Aotearoa, if you're the right person we want to hear from you.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• One-on-one or small group mentoring: Build genuine trust and connection with a young person, supporting them toward their goals at their own pace.
• Behavioural support: Use calm, effective communication and de-escalation to help rangatahi navigate challenging moments.
• Activity-based sessions: Plan and lead engaging, purposeful activities. A budget is provided for activities and resources - you won't be out of pocket.
• Reporting & communication: Submit clear session notes and maintain open communication with our team and key stakeholders.
• Flexible scheduling: You set your hours around the young person's availability. Afternoons, evenings, and weekends are common, but you're in control.
• Building connections: You will be out in the community, connecting with stakeholders, whānau and other professionals. Strong self-motivation, professionalism and follow-through are essential.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We value real-world experience. Whether you've come through the education system, have experience working with youth, or simply have an extraordinary ability to connect with young people and create opportunities for them, we want to talk to you.

• A genuine passion for working with young people who have high needs or complex behaviours
• Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, patience and the ability to build real trust
• Transferable skills you can share with a young person - whether that's barbering, sport, fishing, technology, music, hair & beauty, making a mean coffee, or something else entirely. If it builds connection and confidence, we're interested.
• A valid full NZ driver's licence and access to a reliable vehicle
• Preferred but not required: An NZQA Level 3 or above in Health Sciences, Social Services, or a related field - or currently working toward one

WHAT WE OFFER

• Flexible hours: You set your own schedule that works around you and the young people
• An activity and resource budget provided for every session
• Training, oversight, and ongoing professional support
• Grow your own caseload as your reputation builds
• Meaningful, relationship-based work with real impact

CONTRACTOR TERMS

This role is offered on a contract basis. You set your own schedule and manage your own tax obligations. Hours vary depending on the young people you are matched with. For more information on the difference between contracting and employment, visit: http://www.employment.govt.nz

Please note: Applicants must hold the right to work in New Zealand as a self-employed contractor. Those on student visas are not eligible.

READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

If you're passionate about helping young people unlock their potential, we'd love to hear from you. Apply directly through Seek or via our website.

MacStrong welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. We are an equal opportunity organisation.