Children’s Residential - Social Care Unit Manager – Ballybrittas, Co. Laois
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Job Description
At Odyssey Social Care, we are committed to providing high‑quality residential care to young people across Ireland. We believe in a child‑centred approach rooted in empathy, professionalism, and respect. Join a team where your leadership can make a real difference in the lives of young people and the professionals who support them.
Location
Courtwood Lodge, Odyssey Social Care
Key Responsibilities
* Ensure care meets company standards and national regulations.
* Maintain a homely, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment.
* Supervise Social Care Leaders, Workers, and relief staff.
* Lead team motivation, training, and performance management.
* Manage house budget and resource allocation effectively.
* Support referral management and report writing.
* Promote compliance with TUSLA inspection standards.
* Maintain positive relationships with external stakeholders (e.g., TUSLA, Gardaí, CAMHS).
* Participate in the 24‑hour on‑call rota.
* Promote a culture of transparency through whistleblowing and safeguarding.
* Drive new service development and contribute to company growth.
Benefits
* Competitive Salary
* Flexible rostering focused on work‑life balance
* Core professional training in essential subjects
* Team‑building activities & social events
* Education assistance grants
* Health insurance grant & life insurance
* Incremental pay scale
* Pension contribution match
Professional Background & Qualifications
* Minimum QQI Level 7 qualification in social care and hold/ be enrolled in a programme leading to a management qualification suitable for a health or social care setting, plus 4 years full‑time experience in a children’s residential care setting post‑qualification.
* Or QQI Level 8 in social care with 3 years post‑qualification experience.
* Or hold a relevant qualification with 4 years full‑time experience post‑qualification.
* Social work qualification considered suitable with 4 years post‑qualification practice and a management qualification programme.
* Be on the CORU register of Social Care Workers with 4 years full‑time experience, even without a formally recognised qualification.
* Recognised social care qualifications may include equivalents from other jurisdictions.
Educational Requirements
Minimum Level 7 qualification in Social Care or a relevant field that meets the criteria to be registered as a Social Care Worker with CORU.
Other Eligible Qualifications
* QQI Level 8 in Psychology
* QQI Level 7 or professional practice qualification in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
* QQI Level 7 or professional practice qualification in Counselling / Psychotherapy
* QQI Level 7 or professional practice qualification in Addiction Counselling
* QQI Level 7 in Youth and Community or similar
* QQI Level 7 in Social Science / Social Studies
* QQI Level 7 in Family Support
* Professional qualification in Teaching (Not TEFL)
* Professional qualification in Nursing Studies
* QQI Level 7 in Disability Studies
* QQI Level 7 in Applied Behavioural Analysis
* QQI Level 7 in Early Years Care where centre caters for children under 12 years
* BA in Applied Policing or equivalent
* Holder of Higher Certificate in Custodial Care (Irish Prison Service) or equivalent
* No qualification or non‑relevant qualification but holder of CORU registration as a Social Care worker.
Required Criteria
* Full, clean manual driving licence (valid in Ireland)
* Right to work and live in Ireland
* Familiarity with team dynamics and Irish National Standards
* Full Garda vetting and police clearance for international residency
* Deep knowledge of childcare legislation and best practices
* Conflict resolution and crisis management skills
Contract & Salary
* Contract type: Full‑time
* Salary: €56,160.00 – €60,320.00 per year
* Closing date: Wednesday 29th October 2025
About Odyssey Social Care
Odyssey Social Care provides a supportive, safe environment for children and young people in care. The company culture emphasizes trauma‑informed care, safety, emotional well‑being, and personal development. Employees engage in continuous on‑the‑job training through a network of certified trainers, offering clear opportunities for career progression within the organization.
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