Kaiawhina Whakaora Niho (Dental Therapy Assistant)

Location: Cannons Creek, Titahi Bay, Lower Hutt, and Naenae/Avalon Contract: Permanent, full-time About the Company Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is committed to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and aims to serve all New Zealanders. We are focused on building a health system that emphasizes partnership, equity, sustainability, whanau-centered care, and excellence through integration and collaboration. About the Role We are seeking a Kaiawhina Whakaora Niho to support a Kaiwhakaora Niho (Dental or Oral Health Therapist) in delivering oral health clinical services and education to tamariki in te reo Maori. This role is essential in ensuring that tamariki Maori and their whanau have the opportunity to receive oral health services in their preferred language. The Kaiawhina Whakaora Niho will travel across Poneke, Te Awakairangi, Porirua, and Kapiti rohe, visiting Kura Kaupapa Maori, Kohanga Reo, and Matauranga Maori Early Childhood Education Centers to provide oral health examinations and education. Additionally, time will be spent in clinical hubs throughout the region to provide follow-up treatments, with a focus on tamariki and whanau who prefer services in te reo Maori. It is important for the Kaiawhina Whakaora Niho to be skilled in engaging with children. Responsibilities include assisting the Kaiwhakaora Niho in clinical settings, sterilizing equipment, and handling various administrative tasks. While the primary focus is on delivering services in te reo Maori, English may also be used if preferred by the tamariki or whanau. This is a full-time role with hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, and a salary range of $72,000 to $86,000 based on experience. About the Team We are dedicated to supporting the needs of tamariki, whanau, and communities within our region. Our team is passionate about listening to and addressing the needs related to oral health care, education, and support in te reo Maori. The Bee Healthy Regional Dental Service provides dental services for tamariki in the greater Wellington region through school and community-based Dental Hub Clinics. Joining our diverse and passionate team offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of tamariki in our communities. For more information about our service, please visit our website: http://www.beehealthy.org.nz. About You The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications: - Proficiency in te reo Maori - A solid understanding of tikanga and kaupapa Maori to ensure culturally safe practices for tamariki Maori and their whanau - A current New Zealand driver's license - Experience working with children, whether in a whanau or professional setting - Strong administrative skills and proficiency with computers, with the ability to learn new applications - Any personal experience or understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities is advantageous Working at Health New Zealand At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, we prioritize the wellbeing of the people of Aotearoa/New Zealand. Our commitment to being a good employer aligns with our dedication to equal employment opportunities. We embrace diversity and encourage applications from all individuals, including those of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and disabilities. A diverse and inclusive workforce enhances our ability to understand and serve our community effectively. We are a pro-equity health organization with a particular focus on Maori, Pacific Peoples, and the Disability Community. How to Apply To apply, please visit our online careers portal and submit your application by 11th June. If you have any questions about the role, feel free to contact lucy.britland@tewhatuora.govt.nz. We will review applications as they are received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advertisement.