Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Overview

We are seeking an energetic and compassionate leader to serve as the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. In this vital role, you will inspire and guide the spiritual growth, engagement, and development of youth and young adults within our faith community. Your leadership will foster a vibrant environment where young people can explore their faith, develop meaningful relationships, and participate actively in church life. This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our ministry programs while embodying our mission to serve, nurture, and empower the next generation through faith-based initiatives.

First United Methodist Church
Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministries

This full-time position provides leadership for the church's ministries serving students (grades 6–12) and young adults (ages 18–35). The Director will build meaningful relationships, develop volunteers, create engaging programs, and help young people grow in their faith while becoming active participants in the life of the church and community.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Student Ministry (Grades 6–12)

• Leadership & Faith Development: Lead a welcoming, engaging youth ministry that helps students grow in their faith, understand Scripture, serve others, and build lasting friendships.
• Weekly Programming: Plan and lead regular weekly gatherings for middle and high school students.
• Volunteer Development: Recruit, train, and support adult volunteers so the ministry is built on shared leadership rather than one person.
• Student Leadership: Create opportunities for students to help plan events, serve on church committees, and participate in Sunday services.
• Events: Coordinate retreats, mission trips, summer activities, and youth-led worship services.
• Active Engagement: Build strong relationships with students and their families by being present at school, extracurricular, and community activities when appropriate.

2. Young Adult & Collegiate Ministry (Ages 18–35)

• Young Adult Programs: Develop discussion groups, social gatherings, and service opportunities for young adults and young professionals.
• College Student Engagement: Build relationships with Marshall University students through partnerships with campus ministries, welcoming events, and community involvement.
• Community Outreach: Organize creative events that welcome people who may not feel comfortable in a traditional church setting.
• Staying Connected: Maintain regular communication with young adults who leave the area for college, military service, or work.

3. Safety, Administration & Communications

• Safe Sanctuaries: Follow all Safe Sanctuaries policies, including background checks, driver screening, mandatory reporter requirements, and volunteer training.
• Communications: Work with church staff to promote events, share success stories, and maintain current contact information through print, social media, and the church website.
• Budget & Administration: Manage ministry budgets responsibly, coordinate fundraising efforts, and serve as staff representative to assigned ministry teams.

4. Worship & Staff Collaboration

• · Staff Collaboration: Participate in weekly staff meetings under the direction of the Pastor and contribute to a culture of teamwork, transparency, and mutual respect.
• · Family Ministry Coordination: Work closely with the Director of Children's Ministry to help families transition from children's ministry into youth ministry.
• · Sunday Services: Participate regularly in Sunday worship leadership as coordinated with the Senior Pastor.

Core Competencies

• Familiarity with UMC Doctrine: Familiarity with UMC doctrine and theology to lead the youth and young adults in a manner consistent with Wesleyan faith tradition.
• Relationship Builder: Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a genuine interest in helping young people navigate today's challenges.
• Team Builder: Ability to recruit, organize, equip, and encourage volunteers and student leaders.
• Communication & Judgment: Strong communication skills, sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Work-Life Balance: Maintains healthy personal boundaries and a regular day off while pursuing ongoing professional and personal development.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree preferred. Degrees in ministry, education, religious studies, or related fields are beneficial.
• Experience: Previous leadership experience working with youth or young adults is preferred.
• Drug Screen and Background Check: Successful completion of a background check, drug screen, and child protection training is required before employment.

Work Schedule, Benefits & Professional Development

• Schedule: Full-time (typically 40 hours per week), including Sundays, evenings, and special events. One regular day off each week.
• Vacation: Three weeks of paid annual vacation.
• Professional Development: Up to two weeks annually for approved continuing education, conferences, or professional renewal.

Join us in shaping the spiritual journeys of our youth and young adults! This paid position offers a meaningful opportunity to lead with passion while making a lasting impact on our community’s future generations through faith-based service and leadership.

Pay: $30,000.00 - $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30,000 - $40,000