• Part time - 21 hours per week
• Contract until June 2020 

Organisational Context

MECA identifies the needs of, and provides settlement services and programs to migrants, refugees, youth and emerging communities in the Mount Druitt and surrounding areas. This position reports to the MECA Management Committee through the MECA manager

Purpose of role:

The role aims to promote positive social change by working with individuals, community and relevant organisations to develop and implement programs. This includes working with CALD young people in the Mount Druitt area to identify needs and implement programs to build capacity. Activities include individual casework, community consultation, life skills programs, innovative community development activities and partnership development with other agencies working in the area.

Duties and responsibilities:

• To develop and implement strategies and community initiatives to meet identified needs.
• Develop, implement and evaluate community development programs in line with funding body requirements
• Be proactive in developing cooperative and collaborative partnerships and networks in relation to youth in the community
• Advocate for CALD clients by gathering information regarding current needs, raising awareness to the appropriate funding bodies, developing partnerships with government and non-government organisations and community based groups.
• To attend relevant meetings as required, prepare submissions as required and participate in evaluation of services and programs.
• Develop
• Deliver casework, session and programs for youth clients
• Provide monthly written reports to the Management Committee
• Provide support to the MECA Manager as required and undertake administration tasks as directed in conjunction with other staff members.
• Timely and accurate data entry

Selection Criteria:

• Tertiary qualifications in relevant field, e.g. Social Work, Community/Youth Work, Education and Training or related discipline
• Demonstrated ability or interest in working with clients of diverse religious, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds using strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Commitment to evidence-based practice including understanding of fundamental elements of community development such as cultural appropriateness and established methodologies such as capacity building and social capital;
• Ability to implement a mentoring program focused on the needs/issues of disadvantaged young people and based on best practice principles that strongly align with MECA’s vision and mission
• Well-developed conflict resolution and basic case management skills
• Significant experience and demonstrable track record in developing, implementing and evaluating community programs;
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build strong connections with local organisations, schools and youth networks in the community to promote the program and identify potential mentees and mentors

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Blacktown local government area and service networks
• A current NSW driver's licence and comprehensively insured motor vehicle
• Fluency in a relevant community language

For a successful candidate, MECA offers;

• Flexible working arrangements
• Salary packaging
• Free on-site parking

MECA is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and is committed to building a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion.