Director of Youth Ministries

Westminster Theological Seminary; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent theological institution located in Nashville, TN, is seeking a Director of Youth Ministries who will oversee programs for middle and high school students. This role entails leading teaching efforts, developing small group discipleship, and fostering relationships within the community. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of ministry experience, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, and the ability to build a strong community among youth and volunteers. This position offers a gratifying opportunity to cultivate spiritual growth and nurture young leaders.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of ministry experience in church settings.
• Experience with diverse groups and leading programs.
• Demonstrated ability to develop community.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and develop programs for middle and high school students.
• Cast vision for youth ministry aligning with church goals.
• Lead small group discipleship ministries.

Skills

Strategic development

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Seminary degree preferred

Job description

Presbyterian

WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 1,112

Meet West End Community Church

West End Community Church’s story began in 1996 with a small group of individuals in Nashville praying for the possibility of a new church. Their prayers were answered in 1997 when, under the leadership of Pastor Carter Crenshaw, they began gathering at W.A. Bass Middle School. This initial group formed the foundation of what would become a thriving, community-focused congregation.

The church’s growth led to a significant milestone in 2001: the purchase of 44 acres on White Bridge Road. Just four years later, in 2005, they celebrated the completion of their permanent campus, a testament to their dedication and the Lord’s faithfulness.

For 25 years, Pastor Carter Crenshaw faithfully led West End Community Church. In recent years, John Bourgeois has taken the helm as Lead Pastor, carrying forward the church’s mission to help people know, love, and follow Jesus. Throughout its history, West End Community Church has remained steadfast in its core values, fostering a welcoming and devoted community.

About the Director of Youth Ministries

The Director of Youth Ministries is a key leadership role within the church, responsible for overseeing and developing programs aimed at nurturing the spiritual growth and development of middle and high school students. This individual serves as a shepherd and pastor, equipping both volunteer leaders and paid staff to effectively engage with youth. They will cast a compelling vision for the youth ministry, ensuring that it aligns with the church’s broader goals, and foster a dynamic, relational ministry culture that prioritizes connection with students, parents, and volunteers.

The Director of Youth Ministries responsibilities include:

1. Teaching and Development
2. Develop, organize and lead the Sunday Morning ministry to students, including regular large group teaching
3. Develop, organize and lead small group discipleship ministry to bring students to maturity in Christ, personally co‑leading one small group of students
4. Oversee student leadership team for high school students
5. Lead and shepherd youth ministry staff to thrive, and grow the youth ministry using their unique God‑given talents
6. Relational Ministry
7. Meet regularly with students fostering relationships, while encouraging and directing them toward a committed relationship with Jesus (1v1, school lunches, games/plays, etc.)
8. Shepherd and grow a community of volunteers to invest in the lives of students and lead in the various programs of the youth ministry (fellowship, coaching, care, accountability, etc.)
9. Meet regularly with the youth staff, volunteers, and parents (check‑ins, accountability, lunch, etc.)
10. Communication and Events
11. Oversee all communication to leaders, students and families, including social media
12. Develop and implement a strategy for events (i.e. camps, mission trips, community building, etc.) that foster relationship building, spiritual maturity, and advancement of the kingdom
13. Aid in the development, communication and execution of ministry related offerings designed to equip youth families both to internal audience (staff/volunteers) and to broader ministry base (students/parents/congregation)
14. Additional leadership tasks/thinking as needed

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Director of Youth Ministries:

Education and experience

1. Undergraduate degree required: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (like theology, education, or a related ministry discipline).
2. Seminary degree preferred but not required: While a seminary degree (Master of Divinity, for example) is valued and beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement for the position.
3. 3+ years of ministry experience: Ideal candidates should have a strong background in ministry, with practical experience working in church settings, engaging with diverse groups, and leading programs.
4. Alternative experience: Open to candidates with experience in working with students, whether in the classroom, camp settings, or as a full‑time student ministry leader.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

1. Proven ability to develop and execute strategic ministry initiatives and programing.
2. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
3. Experience in team leadership is helpful.

Personal characteristics and qualifications

1. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
2. Church membership and active participation required.
3. Gatherer: Demonstrated ability to bring people together, create a sense of community, and connect individuals in a church or ministry setting.
4. Personality Type: High in relational and social interaction (I/S personality), with moderate task‑oriented abilities (D/C) according to DISC assessment.
5. Discipler: Proven ability to spiritually and relationally develop volunteers and ministry teams, equipping them for increased responsibility and service.
6. Team Player: Ability to collaborate with others in ministry settings, creating a supportive and harmonious environment for both leaders and participants.

What it’s like to live in Nashville, TN

Living in Nashville, TN, is a unique blend of Southern hospitality and modern urban living that makes it a magnet for newcomers, attracting an average of 50 to 100 new residents every single day. The city is known for its rich music culture, with plenty of live performances, museums, and theaters to explore. Residents enjoy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and relaxing in local parks and green spaces. Nashville’s diverse neighborhoods cater to different lifestyles, from trendy areas with an artistic vibe to more family‑oriented communities. With mild weather and a welcoming atmosphere, Nashville is an exciting place to call home, offering a balance of culture, nature, and community.