Job Overview

Position Overview

The Youth Pastor is responsible for leading, developing, and sustaining a vibrant, Christ-centered ministry for middle school and high school students (grades 6–12). This role exists to disciple students, equip leaders, partner with parents, and cultivate a spiritually healthy, relationally rich youth culture aligned with the mission and values of the church.

The ideal candidate is a relational leader with theological maturity, strong communication skills, and a heart for the next generation, capable of engaging students in a suburban, Northeast context with authenticity, relevance, and biblical integrity.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

Spiritual Leadership & Discipleship

• Lead students into a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ through Scripture, prayer, worship, and community
• Teach biblically sound, age-appropriate messages that are engaging, culturally aware, and gospel-centered
• Develop and implement a clear discipleship pathway for students from entry through graduation
• Provide pastoral care, guidance, and prayer for students during key developmental stages

Program Development & Execution

• Plan and oversee weekly youth gatherings, small groups, retreats, camps, and special events
• Create environments that are welcoming, safe, and spiritually formative
• Collaborate with worship, production, and communications teams as needed
• Evaluate and refine programming to ensure alignment with church vision and student needs

Volunteer & Staff Leadership

• Lead, support, and develop youth ministry staff and key leaders, fostering a healthy and collaborative team culture
• Recruit, train, and support volunteer leaders while fostering an engaging, healthy youth ministry culture marked by maturity and consistency.
• Equip leaders with resources, coaching, and spiritual support
• Foster a culture of accountability, encouragement, and excellence within the youth ministry

Family & Church Partnership

• Partner with parents and guardians as the primary spiritual influencers in students' lives
• Communicate regularly with families regarding programming, spiritual formation, and student well-being
• Collaborate with church staff to ensure youth ministry is integrated into the broader life of the church
• Support student involvement in intergenerational worship and service opportunities

Administration & Stewardship

• Manage the youth ministry budget responsibly and transparently
• Maintain compliance with church policies related to safety, child protection, and risk management
• Track attendance, engagement, and ministry outcomes to inform strategic planning

Qualifications & Experience

• A committed, growing follower of Jesus Christ whose life reflects Christian character and leadership
• Agreement with the church's statement of faith and mission
• 3–5 years of experience in youth ministry or a related pastoral role
• Strong teaching, communication, and relational skills
• Ability to engage students from diverse backgrounds in an affluent, academically driven community
• Experience building and leading volunteer teams
• Strong organizational skills and emotional intelligence
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and attend off-site events

Desired Attributes

• Relational, humble, and emotionally mature
• Culturally aware and theologically grounded
• Vision-driven yet detail-oriented
• Collaborative team player
• Adaptable and resilient
• Passionate about developing future Christian leaders

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience $80,000-$90,000+
• Health benefits and retirement options (if full-time)
• Paid time off, holidays, and ministry-related travel expenses
• Regular Soul Care Days
• Ongoing professional and spiritual development opportunities