Patient Support and Security Worker

• Two permanent roles available at Nelson Hospital: one part-time (0.875 FTE, 70 hours per fortnight) and one full-time (1.0 FTE, 80 hours per fortnight)
• Apply your interpersonal skills to make a difference to people’s lives
• Do great work within a supportive team ensuring a safe environment

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

Patient Support and Security Workers play a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This is a varied and rewarding position where you will ensure security and provide compassionate assistance to patients with diverse needs.

As a Patient Support and Security Worker, you’ll be part of a team that ensures a safe and welcoming environment, working closely with clinical staff to provide holistic care.

• Part-time (0.875 FTE): Based in the Emergency Department, working 4 days on, 4 days off roster from 20:00 to 06:30.
• Full-time (1.0 FTE): Rostered rotating shifts, Monday to Sunday. No on-call requirements.

About the Team/Service/ Location

The Patient Support and Security Worker Service at Nelson Hospital attends to security risks, manages incidents, and assists in emergencies for the Emergency Department, Inpatient Mental Health Unit, and Older Persons’ Mental Health Unit. They act as first responders to situations requiring de-escalation, intervention, or conflict resolution, ensuring outcomes that prioritise safety and compassion.

The service supports patients with diverse needs, including those experiencing behavioural challenges, cognitive impairments, or emotional distress, to ensure their well-being and dignity; and work alongside healthcare professionals to deliver seamless care, particularly in high-stress or sensitive situations.

For more information on living and working in Nelson click here.

About you

The successful candidate will:

• Maintain a safe environment by monitoring hospital premises and addressing any security concerns.
• Support clinical staff with managing patient safety, including de-escalation of challenging behaviours.
• Provide assistance to patients, including mobility support and emotional reassurance.
• Respond promptly to incidents, emergencies, and requests for assistance.
• Build positive relationships with patients, staff, and visitors while upholding the hospital’s values and policies.
  

Previous experience in security, or a related industry is preferred. However, this is not essential as training will be provided.

Additionally, you will have:

• empathy and a non-judgemental attitude towards patients and members of the public
• the ability to relate with ease to people from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds
• the ability to recognise and pass on issues that may affect patient welfare
• a good level of physical fitness and mobility.

 The successful candidate must be eligible to work in New Zealand or hold a valid NZ visa at the time of applying.

 Working at Health New Zealand 

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. 

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by 17 March 2026.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact

Sonja Rae (Recruitment) at sonja.rae@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

Simon Trillo (Security Manager) at simon.trillo@nmdhb.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.