Full-Time Associate Pastor Youth & Family Ministries

Illinois Prairie Presbytery; Joliet (IL); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

First Presbyterian Church of Joliet is seeking a full-time Installed Associate Pastor to oversee Children & Youth Ministry and Young Adult/Family programs. The role reports to the Lead Pastor and the Session, offering leadership in worship participation, pastoral care, and program development.

The ideal candidate will have PCUSA ordination or eligibility, a deep faith, and proven experience in children, youth, and family ministry, with strong communication and relational leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Ordination or eligibility for ordination within the PCUSA.
• Demonstrated faith and personal discipleship in Jesus Christ.
• Experience leading children, youth, and/or family ministries with a track record of program development.
• Strong biblical knowledge and Reformed theology understanding.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong interpersonal skills.
• Relational leadership and ability to connect with children, youth, parents, staff, and volunteers.
• Proficiency with ministry technology (presentation software, social media, church management systems).
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all facets of Children & Youth Ministry (Infant–12th grade) and Young Adult/Family programs.
• Coordinate staff and volunteers; recruit, train, and supervise teams.
• Develop, review, and oversee curriculum; select teaching materials.
• Lead worship-related activities and participate in services as needed.
• Plan youth retreats, mission trips, and service projects; provide mentorship and pastoral care.
• Collaborate with parents/guardians and church leadership to support spiritual development.
• Attend staff, Session, and church-wide planning meetings; act as liaison to church Councils and Illinois Prairie Presbytery.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Pastoral care

Technology in ministry

Education

Ordination or PCUSA eligibility

Tools

Church management systems

Job description

First Presbyterian Church of Joliet is seeking a full-time Installed Associate Pastor to oversee Children & Youth Ministry and Young Adult/Family programs. The role reports to the Lead Pastor and the Session, offering leadership in worship participation, pastoral care, and program development.

The ideal candidate will have PCUSA ordination or eligibility, a deep faith, and proven experience in children, youth, and family ministry, with strong communication and relational leadership skills.