Director of Youth Ministry

Position Overview:

St. Barnabas Lutheran Church is seeking a passionate and dedicated Director of Youth Ministry to lead, coordinate, and implement programs specifically targeting youth from preschool through grade 8. Working closely with the Pastor and the Christian Education Team, this role is responsible for maintaining existing programs and developing new initiatives that help the youth of St. Barnabas develop spiritually and morally within a grace-filled environment.

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or general education degree (GED); some college preferred.
• 1–3 years of experience in the education field or working with youth.
• Pass a background check.
• Complete Safeguarding God’s Children training program.
• Current CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain).

Key Responsibilities:

• Curriculum & Education: Research and implement appropriate Christian education curricula for preschool through grade 6. Teach Confirmation Class as needed.
• Youth Group Leadership: Plan and lead middle school youth group activities, including Bible studies, service projects (e.g., FMSC), fun/fellowship, outreach, and retreats.
• Seasonal & Special Events: Organize Vacation Bible School (one week in summer) and seasonal activities such as Easter Eggstravaganza, Trunk or Treat, and Morning in Bethlehem.
• Create New Programming: Create innovative ways to engage and support youth by listening to the needs of the congregation.
• Volunteer Management: Recruit, obtain background checks, train, and oversee volunteers to assist with Sunday School (September to May) and other activities. Build a strong Christian Education Team.
• Relationship Building: Actively build strong relationships with all youth and parents to foster a welcoming environment and grow participation.
• Communication & Reporting: Provide consistent, up-to-date communication with youth, parents, and congregation via text, email, and social media. Submit monthly reports to the church council and attend monthly ministry night and weekly staff meetings.
• St. Barnabas Christian Preschool: Work with the preschool staff to find ways to connect with the students and families of the school.
• Safety & Administration: Manage the youth ministry budget and track expenses. Enforce church safety policies, including "Safeguarding God’s Children" guidelines, background checks of all volunteers, ensuring proper boundaries in all interactions (in-person, travel, social media).
• Spiritual Leadership: Commit to Jesus Christ with a clear understanding of St. Barnabas’s theology of grace and forgiveness. Have a strong knowledge of the Bible.

Personal Characteristics:

• One to three years in the education field or working with youth.
• Ability to take initiative, be resourceful, and collaborate as part of a team.
• Outgoing and approachable
• Caring, joyful, and good-humored approach to the youth
• Professional work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to handle multi-tasking.
• Proficient in technology and social media applications.
• Ability to communicate clearly in both speaking and writing.
• Serve as a role model and mentor for the youth.
• Able to work with and accept children of every race, national origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, health and mental health status, and neurodiversity.

Hours:

• Expected weekly hours occasionally vary with special events and are approximately 15 to 20 hours per week to be recorded and submitted on-line
• Majority of hours to be worked in person at church

Pay: $17,680.00 - $18,720.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17,680 - $18,720