Director of Youth & Family Ministries

Full Time , On-Site Position Summary

Valparaiso First United Methodist Church seeks a Christ-centered and visionary leader to serve as full-time Director of Youth & Family Ministries. This role focuses on the spiritual formation of youth, children, and families. The ideal candidate is an energetic and creative leader of youth, with a heart for discipleship and community, able to equip volunteers and build relationships across generations.

Reports to Senior Pastor

• Plan and lead weekly youth group gatherings that include Christian formation, service, fellowship, and fun.
• Build strong relationships with youth and their families, serving as a mentor and faith leader.
• Organize special events such as retreats, mission trips, confirmation (with pastoral team), conference events, and service projects.
• Equip and support adult volunteers to engage meaningfully in youth ministry.

• Collaborate with the Director of Children’s Ministry to design opportunities that bring families together for shared faith experiences (e.g., family nights, service projects, parent equipping workshops).
• Coordinate with the pastoral and worship teams to involve youth in worship leadership.
• Foster intergenerational relationships between youth and the wider congregation through events and mentoring.

• Serve as a visible and active presence in the life of the church, especially on Sunday mornings.
• Work with ministry leaders to ensure alignment and integration of programming.
• Communicate effectively via church newsletters, social media, and direct contact with families.
• Manage ministry budgets, calendars, supplies, and volunteer schedules.
• Ensure compliance with Safe Sanctuaries policies, including annual background checks and training for all volunteers.

• Full-time salaried (35 hours per week), presence on Sundays and one week night - additional time for retreats & trips.
• $45,000 - $55,000 depending on several factors including experience, skill set, etc.

• Email a cover letter, resume, and three references to
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.

Valparaiso FUMC is an equal-opportunity employer and, as a church, considers faith alignment as a bona fide occupational qualification for ministry roles.