Youth Director/Pastor

USMB; Lodi (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meaningful mentorship

Strong volunteer base

Excellent ministry facilities

Supportive staff culture

Job summary

USMB is looking for a full-time Youth Pastor to provide spiritual and organizational leadership for junior high and high school ministries. This role involves intentional discipleship, program development, and fostering relationships with students and families. The ideal candidate should hold a Bachelor’s degree in ministry or related fields, and have a passion for youth ministry. Compensation and benefits will be discussed with the Elder Board. Join a supportive church environment dedicated to the next generation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in ministry, biblical studies, or theology.
• Clear calling to youth ministry and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Prior experience in youth ministry or pastoral ministry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide pastoral care and discipleship to youth.
• Plan and oversee youth events and programming.
• Recruit and train volunteer leaders for youth ministry.

Skills

Teaching Scripture effectively

Building trusting relationships

Leadership and communication

Organizational skills

Discipleship knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in ministry or related field

Tools

Presentation software

Design tools

Job description

Position Title: Youth Pastor
Position Status: Full-Time
Reports To: Associate Pastor
Works With: Pastoral Staff, Youth Ministry Volunteers

Role Overview

The Youth Pastor provides spiritual, pastoral, and organizational leadership for Vinewood Church’s junior high and high school ministries. This role is deeply relational and discipleship-driven, focused on guiding students into a growing, authentic relationship with Jesus Christ and active participation in the life of the church. The Youth Pastor will shepherd students, partner with families, equip volunteers, and collaborate with the pastoral team to advance the mission and vision of Vinewood Church.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (degree in ministry, biblical studies, theology, or a related field preferred)
• A clear calling to youth ministry and a growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ
• Demonstrated ability to teach Scripture and lead biblically grounded lessons for junior high and high school students
• Prior experience in youth ministry, pastoral ministry, or student discipleship (preferred)
• Strong pastoral heart with the ability to build trusting, Christ-centered relationships with students and families
• Effective leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently while thriving in a collaborative staff environment
• Commitment to uphold Vinewood Church’s values, mission, and discipleship and safety guidelines

Preferred Skills & Gifts

• Worship leading experience
• Graphic design or visual communication skills (including presentation software and design tools)

Primary Responsibilities

Pastoral Care & Student Discipleship

• Shepherd junior high and high school students through intentional discipleship and pastoral care
• Teach and apply Scripture in a way that is biblically faithful, engaging, and relevant to students’ lives
• Build consistent, Christ-centered relationships with students, providing guidance, encouragement, and spiritual direction
• Create appropriate connection points with students beyond scheduled gatherings, following church safety guidelines (meeting off-campus only in public places and with individuals of the same gender)

Ministry Programming & Leadership

• Plan, lead, and oversee all youth gatherings, events, and discipleship opportunities
• Develop Christ-centered programming that encourages spiritual growth, community, and outreach
• Provide oversight and care for youth ministry spaces, including the youth room and gymnasium

Volunteer Development

• Recruit, train, and equip volunteer leaders for effective youth ministry
• Provide ongoing encouragement, communication, and leadership development for volunteer teams
• Foster a healthy, safe, and welcoming ministry culture

Family, Campus & Community Engagement

• Partner with parents and families in the spiritual development of students
• Maintain a visible presence at school campuses and student-related events such as games, graduations, and Christian club gatherings
• Represent Vinewood Church positively within the local community

Staff Collaboration & Administration

• Work closely with the Associate Pastor and pastoral staff to ensure alignment with Vinewood Church’s mission and vision
• Assist with ministry planning, calendars, communication, and administrative responsibilities related to youth ministry
• Perform other pastoral or ministry duties as assigned

Why Serve at Vinewood Church?

Vinewood Church is a Christ-centered, relational community that deeply values the next generation. The Youth Pastor will step into a supportive and encouraging environment with access to seasoned mentors who bring many years of youth ministry and pastoral leadership experience.

This role offers:

• Meaningful mentorship and collaboration with experienced pastoral leaders
• A strong, committed volunteer base passionate about discipling students
• Excellent ministry facilities, including a dedicated youth room and gymnasium
• The opportunity to shape and grow a vibrant, impactful youth ministry
• A healthy staff culture marked by teamwork, prayer, and shared leadership

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation and benefits for this salaried position will be discussed with the Elder Board and reviewed annually.