Psychologist, Special Treatment Unit - Rimutaka

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Make a positive difference in the lives of offenders and the community by helping in their rehabilitation
• Become a part of a close-knit and diverse team of passionate people
• Receive training and enhance your expertise in Forensic and Clinical Psychology with diverse evidence-based techniques and therapies

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Te Whare Manaakitanga (TWM) is a dedicated therapeutic community based at Rimutaka Prison, renowned for its success in supporting the rehabilitation of people in our care who have a history of serious violent offending. Amidst the outdoor views our psychologically based programme has been recognised as having a significant and positive impact in our efforts to reduce reoffending.

As a psychologist at TWM you are at the heart of a transformative and inspirational journey. Your core task at TWM will be to recruit, assess and develop individualised treatment plans for 10 men. You will subsequently co-facilitate the nine-month cognitive-behavioural group treatment programme with the 10 men, complete specialist reports outlining their treatment progress, and consult on reintegration pathways for the men post-programme. All staff will also have the ability to design and deliver complementary individual treatment sessions as appropriate, have an active role in the running of TWM's therapeutic community designed to provide participants with opportunities to rehearse and generalise the skills acquired in treatment sessions, and get to benefit from the expertise of our full time Kaupapa Māori Practitioner who guides cultural practises in our whare. Senior psychologists will have further opportunities to provide clinical supervision and training. 

To find out more about being a psychologist at the Department of Corrections Ara Poutama Aotearoa click here.

He kōrero mōu | About you 

Join TWM and work alongside a dedicated team to make a genuine impact. As a psychologist at Rimutaka Prison, you'll have the opportunity to empower individuals in our care to better themselves. We are looking for someone with a passion for creating positive change, strong relational skills, and adaptability.

In this role, you will navigate complex environments, collaborate closely with custodial staff, and contribute directly to positive transformations. Your resilience and creativity will be key as you balance multiple perspectives and engage in meaningful work. This is a chance to be proactive and reflective, combining your expertise with the satisfaction of making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.

If you are ready for a transformative opportunity, we invite you to consider joining our team at Te Whare Manaakitanga. 

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The salary range for the role is $83,286 - $133,370. Frontline Psychologists have the ability to work towards additional allowances and allocated professional development funding. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

International Relocation Package

Ara Poutama has relocation packages available for candidates relocating from overseas. For international applicants, please confirm your eligibility to register as a psychologist in New Zealand.

• Freight forward of $10,000
• Airfares for candidates and travelling family
• 4-weeks accommodation
• 4-weeks rental vehicle hire
• Airport transfers of up to $300 and any stop-over accommodation

Ko wai mātou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is a name that has been gifted to us and is our commitment to improving the oranga and safety of the people, whānau, and that of the communities we serve across the motu.

As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship) and whānau (relationships) to shape how we work and deliver the outcomes in our strategy - Hōkai Rangi.

It is an exciting time to join us, and we continue to seek out talented individuals who are committed to an inclusive, vibrant workplace. We recognise and celebrate the uniqueness of individuals, and that of the collective talent in our whānau. 

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

Applications Close Sunday 14th April.

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience. Alignment to our kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples which reflect and demonstrate our organisation values. 

All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency. Applications received via email will not be considered. 

If you would like to discuss this position further, please contact Nicola Perkins, Manager Psychological Services on 04 529 0101 or email nicola.perkins@corrections.govt.nz