Student Pastor First Baptist Church Odessa, TX

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Inc.; Odessa (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Paid vacation

Job summary

First Odessa is seeking a Youth Pastor to lead a growing student ministry with a focus on discipleship, relational leadership, and gospel-centered teaching. You will equip volunteers, build a robust ministry culture, and collaborate with families and church staff to reach students for Christ in Odessa, TX.

The role emphasizes shepherding students, developing small groups, and planning retreats and outreach events, with a full-time schedule and a competitive compensation package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; M.Div. or theological training preferred.
• Strong emphasis on discipleship and spiritual depth.
• Ability to build authentic relationships with students and parents.
• Thrives in team environments with unity and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead weekly student gatherings and small groups.
• Teach biblically faithful, Scripture-driven messages.
• Cultivate a strong small group culture.
• Provide pastoral care to students, families, and volunteers.
• Mentor students toward lifelong faith and leadership.
• Partner with parents as primary disciplers.
• Plan retreats, mission trips, and outreach events.
• Develop and manage the student ministry budget.

Skills

Relational leadership

Discipleship focus

Team collaboration

Student engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree

M.Div. or theological training

Job description

Lead a Student Ministry Poised for Growth and Impact:

Are you a relational leader with a passion to see students confidently live out their faith? Do you long to disciple the next generation, equip volunteers, and build something that truly matters for eternity? At First Odessa, we are deeply committed to raising up students who know Christ, love His Word, and live on mission. With a strong volunteer base and a student ministry ready to grow, we're seeking a leader who will invest deeply, teach faithfully, and lead with vision and creativity.

Why This Role Matters:

First Odessa is ready for the next leader to step into a great opportunity to engage with students in a ministry that has a long history of success and spiritual blessing. With a unified staff, and a congregation that supports and prioritizes the next generation of leaders, the timing is perfect for the right person to succeed.

We are looking for a Youth Pastor who brings spiritual depth, and a heart for discipleship. You won't be starting from scratch - you'll be building on a strong foundation, with the freedom to cultivate a ministry culture that is both vibrant and enduring.

You May Be a Great Fit If…

• You are a biblically faithful, Spirit-led teacher who makes truth clear and compelling
• You care deeply about discipleship
• You are relationally driven and pursue authentic connections with students and parents
• You thrive in team environments and value unity, collaboration, and shared wins

What You’ll Do:

Spiritual Leadership & Discipleship

• Lead weekly student gatherings, small groups, and key ministry environments
• Teach Christ-centered, Scripture-driven messages that connect with real life
• Cultivate a strong small group culture that fosters genuine spiritual growth
• Provide pastoral care to students, families, and volunteers
• Mentor students toward lifelong faith, service, and leadership
• Partner with parents as the primary disciplers of their students

Team Building & Volunteer Development

• Build a ministry culture marked by presence, care, and relational investment
• Work closely with the Youth volunteers to strengthen systems and creativity

Ministry Leadership & Execution

• Plan and lead retreats, mission trips, outreach efforts, and special events
• Collaborate with church staff on key seasons and church-wide initiatives
• Help develop and steward the student ministry budget
• Build connections with local schools and community partners

What We’re Looking For

• A growing, vibrant walk with Jesus Christ
• A strong, engaging communicator who connects with students
• A humble, team-oriented leader who brings energy and joy to the work
• A healthy relational presence with both students and parents
• Bachelor’s degree required; M.Div. or theological training preferred

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $55,000-$70,000 (based on experience)

Benefits: Medical insurance, retirement plan, paid vacation

Schedule: Full-time (Sunday-Thursday, with flexibility for ministry events)

Tagged as: discipleship, students, youth ministry