What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Children's and Youth Ministry position at First United Methodist Church - Fort Atkinson?
Overview
The Director of Children’s and Youth Ministry will need to have a strong Christian faith, understand and teach the Bible, and follow a faithful call to serve children and youth. Outreach is mandatory for this position. They will develop age-appropriate programming and curriculum for both Middle School and High School youth as well as ensure a safe environment to allow them to grow in their faith. They will collaborate with the senior pastor and staff to advance the church’s mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Have the comfort and ability to reach out to Children in appropriate areas outside the Church and teach, lead, and encourage them to learn about God.
- Program leadership and development
- Design, implement, and evaluate comprehensive children’s and youth ministries that reflect the church’s theology and mission.
- Oversee weekly programs such as Sunday school and youth group, and retreats
- Select or develop developmentally appropriate curriculum and resources.
- Volunteer recruitment, training, and supervision
- Recruit, screen, train, schedule, and support volunteer leaders, teachers, and mentors.
--Provide mentoring, care, and spiritual formation for children, youth, and families.
- Safety, policy, and compliance
- Manage the children’s and youth ministry budget.
- Oversee supplies, curriculum purchases, facility usage, and logistics for off-site events - Communicate regularly with parents, volunteers, and the congregation.
- Participate in staff meetings, planning, and special services.
- Build relationships with local schools and community partners as appropriate.
Qualifications
- Committed Christian whose theology aligns with the church’s statement of faith.
- Experience leading children’s and/or youth ministry.
- Experience in outreach and recruiting.
- Knowledge of child development, adolescent issues, and age-appropriate faith formation methods.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to pass background checks and comply with child protection policies.
- Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required.
- A degree in ministry, education, counseling, youth ministry, or related field.
- First aid/CPR certification; training in youth mental health or trauma-informed care.
Personal Qualities:
- Warm, approachable, and trustworthy with children, teens, and families.
- Creative, energetic leader who inspires and equips Youth and volunteers.
- Discreet and professional handling sensitive information.
- Self-starter who balances visionary planning with administrative detail.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
- Regular evening and weekend commitments.
- Occasional lifting of supplies and equipment.
- Possible travel for off-site events and overnight retreats as needed.
Background Checks and Safeguarding:
- Employment contingent on satisfactory background checks, references, and adherence to child protection policies.
How to Apply:
- Submit resume, cover letter, references, and a brief statement of faith and ministry philosophy to Linda Kent, SPRC Chair, FUMC, 320 S Main, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
or email to: vinceandlindakent@gmail.com
Job Type: Part-time
Projected Total Compensation: From $21,000.00 per year
Expected hours: 20 – 25 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21,000