Director of Student Ministries

United Methodist Church; Pineville (LA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Pineville First United Methodist Church is seeking a Director of Student Ministries to provide spiritual leadership for birth through 12th grade. You will develop a comprehensive discipleship pathway and oversee worship, discipleship, fellowship, service, and outreach opportunities for children, students, and families.

The role emphasizes ministry leadership, program development, family engagement, and community outreach within a United Methodist context.

Qualifications

• Commitment to Jesus Christ and United Methodist beliefs.
• Experience leading children’s or youth ministry preferred.
• Ability to recruit, train, and lead volunteers.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and events.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee a comprehensive ministry strategy for children and youth.
• Plan, implement, and assess programs, events, and camps.
• Lead weekly youth activities, Bible studies, and discipleship.
• Build partnerships with families and church leadership.
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers and staff.
• Maintain ministry calendars, budgets, and records.
• Ensure Safe Sanctuaries and background checks for volunteers.

Skills

Leadership

Volunteer recruitment

Communication

Organization

Pastoral care

Education

Bachelor's degree in ministry/related field

Tools

Tech proficiency

Social media

Job description

Compensation:$35,000 – $45,000 (dependent on education and experience)

DirectReports: Nursery Staff, Children's Ministry Volunteers, Youth Ministry Volunteers

Position Summary

The Director of Student Ministries provides spiritual leadership, vision, coordination, and oversight for ministries serving children and youth from birth through 12th grade. This position is responsible for developing a comprehensive discipleship pathway that helps children, students, and families grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ while fostering meaningful connections within the church community.

The Director serves as an advocate for children, youth, and families by creating engaging opportunities for worship, discipleship, fellowship, service, and outreach.

Key Responsibilities

Ministry Leadership

• Develop, coordinate, and lead a comprehensive ministry strategy for children and youth from birth through 12th grade.
• Create and implement programs that encourage spiritual growth, biblical knowledge, Christian character, and service to others.
• Lead weekly youth ministry activities, Bible studies, and discipleship opportunities.
• Partner with church leadership to ensure children and youth are integrated into the life and mission of the church.
• Develop a smooth transition process as children grow from nursery to children's ministry and from children's ministry into youth ministry.

Program Development

• Plan, coordinate, and evaluate ministry programs, events, retreats, mission projects, Vacation Bible School, confirmation classes, camps, and special seasonal activities.
• Select and implement curriculum consistent with United Methodist theology and the mission of the church.
• Create opportunities for families to participate in intergenerational church activities and faith formation.
• Recruit, train, equip, and support volunteers who serve in children's and youth ministries.
• Provide ongoing encouragement and leadership development for volunteers.
• Maintain appropriate volunteer staffing levels for all ministry activities.
• Ensure volunteers receive required training and understand ministry expectations.

Family Engagement

• Build positive relationships with children, youth, parents, and guardians.
• Support parents as the primary faith influencers in their children's lives.
• Maintain regular communication with families regarding ministry activities, events, and opportunities.
• Provide encouragement, prayer, and pastoral support to children, youth, and families.

Community Outreach

• Cultivate relationships with local schools and community organizations.
• Engage children and youth in mission opportunities that demonstrate Christ's love within the community.
• Promote church programs that reach and welcome unchurched children, youth, and families.

Administration & Communication

• Prepare and manage the annual ministry budget in collaboration with church leadership.
• Maintain ministry calendars, schedules, records, and attendance information.
• Coordinate communications through newsletters, bulletin announcements, church website, social media, and other platforms.
• Provide regular updates to church leadership regarding ministry activities, participation, and goals.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Safe Sanctuaries policies and procedures.
• Maintain appropriate records, permissions, and emergency contact information.
• Ensure all volunteers and staff complete required background checks and training.
• Promote a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment for all participants.

Personal & Spiritual Development

• Maintain a vibrant personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Participate regularly in worship and the life of the congregation.
• Pursue continuing education, professional development, and spiritual growth opportunities.
• Model Christian leadership, integrity, and discipleship.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Support the mission, values, and ministry of The United Methodist Church and of Pineville First United Methodist Church.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the pastor or church leadership.

Qualifications

• Committed follower of Jesus Christ with a passion for children, youth, and family ministry.
• Understanding of and commitment to United Methodist beliefs, values, and practices.
• Bachelor's degree in ministry, education, theology, or related field preferred.
• Experience leading children's ministry, youth ministry, or related church programs preferred.
• Proven ability to recruit, motivate, and lead volunteers.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with church staff, volunteers, and families.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, retreats, camps, and special events.
• Proficiency with technology, social media, and communication tools.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Regular attendance at worship services and ministry events.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional overnight trips.
• Ability to participate in outdoor activities, camps, retreats, and mission projects.
• Ability to lift and transport ministry supplies and equipment as needed.

This is a full-time salary position. All Pineville FUMC employees must pass pre-employment testing such as a drug screen and background check. They must also read and follow all Church Policies and Procedures.

Contact: Staff-Parish Relations Committee