Are you a natural leader who’s passionate about creating spaces where young people thrive?
Zeal West Auckland is looking for a Youth Development Manager to lead our youth work, manage a passionate team, and support rangatahi through creativity, connection, and community.
You’ll co-lead our West Auckland team, strengthen partnerships with schools and local organisations, and bring your hands-on leadership to build strong youth pathways and team culture.
Key responsibilities
Team Leadership & Culture
- Line-manage 5 direct reports (5 Youth Workers/Tutors)
- Co-lead the West Auckland team with the Digital Manager
- Manage staff performance, wellbeing, and accountability
- Build and maintain a positive team culture, aligned to Zeal’s values
- Deliver training for key functions and youth development best practice
Programme Delivery
- Oversee West Auckland programme delivery, ensuring consistency and quality
- Lead by example, delivering frontline youth work alongside staff
- Grow youth leadership opportunities within the centre
- Liaise with schools, young people and parents for in-school and on-site programmes
General
- Ensure compliance with policies and health & safety legislation
- Support Digital Director with reporting, budgets, and operational planning
- Build strong relationships with local partners and stakeholders
Skills and experience
- 4+ years’ experience in youth/community development
- 4+ years’ strong leadership and people management experience
- Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality programmes and train others
- Ability to lead and model our practice of Mana Taiohi, Ara Taiohi Code of Ethics, Te Whare Tapa Whā
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to balance frontline delivery with operational leadership
Who is Zeal?
Zeal is a leading New Zealand youth organisation whose mission is to make transformative spaces and experiences accessible to all young people in Aotearoa.
Our values and vibe
Aroha
Whanaungatanga
Manaakitanga
Rangatiratanga
Ngākau Māhaki
Where's the job?
Your core mahi will be at Zeal, the West Auckland Youth Centre, as well at schools and other spaces in the West Auckland community.
Apply for this role
This is a permanent full-time contract. Applications close 23rd November 2025.
