Director of Youth Ministry

Director of Youth Ministry (Part-Time)

First United Methodist Church | O'Fallon, IL

• Part-time
• Hourly
• Non-exempt

Senior Pastor

First United Methodist Church is seeking a passionate, relational leader to serve as our Director of Youth Ministry. This position provides leadership for a growing ministry serving students in grades 6-12 by creating opportunities for them to grow in faith, build meaningful relationships, and actively participate in the life of the church.

The Director of Youth Ministry will work closely with parents, volunteers, church staff, and the congregation to develop a welcoming and engaging environment where students can deepen their relationship with Christ and discover ways to serve others.

• Plan and lead engaging weekly youth gatherings for students in grades 6-12.
• Develop opportunities that encourage students to grow spiritually, build friendships, and live out their faith.
• Organize mission experiences, retreats, service projects, special events, and fellowship opportunities throughout the year.
• Encourage and mentor student leaders while helping them develop their gifts for ministry.
• Provide pastoral care and support to students and their families.

• Recruit, train, schedule, and support adult volunteers for youth ministry.
• Coordinate small group leaders, Sunday School teachers, confirmation mentors, and event volunteers.
• Ensure all required background checks and Safe Sanctuary procedures are followed.
• Foster strong, meaningful relationships between students and adult mentors.

• Develop a vision and annual ministry plan for youth programming.
• Research and select curriculum that supports the ministry's goals.
• Manage supplies and ministry resources.
• Develop and manage the annual youth ministry budget.
• Evaluate ministry programs and make improvements as needed.

• Partner with the Director of Children's Ministry to create a smooth transition from elementary ministry into youth ministry.
• Participate in church staff meetings when available.
• Build relationships within local schools and the community to connect with students and families.
• Support students by attending school events, performances, athletic competitions, and other activities as schedules allow.
• Stay informed about current youth culture, social media trends, and best practices in student ministry.
• Pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities that strengthen ministry leadership.

• Associate degree or certification in Youth Ministry, Christian Ministry, or a related field with at least one year of relevant ministry experience; or
• Two or more years of experience leading youth ministry or a comparable student ministry program.

• A growing Christian faith and a passion for helping students grow in theirs.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organizational and administrative abilities.
• Ability to plan and lead engaging programs for middle and high school students.
• Experience recruiting, equipping, and encouraging volunteers.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with church staff.
• Comfortable using technology and social media as ministry tools.

• Loves working with middle and high school students.
• Builds authentic relationships with youth and their families.
• Is creative, energetic, and organized.
• Can inspire volunteers and develop student leaders.
• Works well as part of a collaborative ministry team.
• Is committed to creating a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and encouraged in their faith.

Join us as we invest in the next generation and help students discover a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ.