Youth & Children’s Ministry Coordinator

Youth & Children’s Ministry Coordinator

Youth and Children’s Ministries Coordinator

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Youth and Children’s Ministries Coordinator at First Church is responsible for executing educational and fellowship programs for young people from birth through the end of high school, under the direction of the Associate Pastor of Community and Congregational Engagement.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  1. Support lay volunteers, Sunday School teachers, and nursery/childcare staff Act as a liaison with other staff and clergy, managing schedules, program assignments, and recruiting volunteers as needed.
  2. Assist with the planning and execution of educational and fellowship programs for young people at First Church, which include:
    • Sunday school for students from pre-K to 12th grade.
    • Youth group fellowship programs and retreats
    • Family fellowship activities
  3. Be present for all of the above activities, unless logistically impossible (i.e. when activities overlap). When not present, ensure coverage for program by volunteers and other staff.
  4. Engage in the recruitment of young people across all age groups and assist pastors in welcoming and integrating new families into First Church, with a focus on hospitality for young attendees.
  5. Contribute to intergenerational programs and activities, including encouraging youth participation in the annual all-church retreat.
  6. Stay informed about children/youth ministry developments, including studies, trends, and resources, and share relevant information with clergy, staff, and volunteers.
  7. Advocate for young people in all aspects of congregational life.
  8. Uphold the Safe Church Policy in collaboration with clergy and staff
  9. Communicate effectively about youth events and activities with clergy, staff, parents, and the Communications Director for public dissemination.
  10. Promote and organize service/outreach and worship activities for and with young people, and advocate for relevant district/conference/national events within the congregation.
  11. Advise clergy as pastoral care needs arise among young people and their families.

QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Strong Christian faith and commitment to advancing the mission and objectives of First Church, as outlined by pastoral staff and leadership.
  2. Proven affinity and experience with youth ministries, including a minimum of two years in children and youth programming.
  3. Passion for fostering faith development among children and youth and development of strong social witness for inclusive values.
  4. Social, emotional, and spiritual maturity and professionalism, including the ability to work independently, on a team, and as a leader; confidentiality where appropriate; and commitment to maintaining and promoting healthy boundaries in relationships.
  5. Excellent time management skills, including being on-time for program activities and preparation, and prompt responsiveness in communication with clergy, staff, volunteers, and young people.
  6. Excellent organizational and communication abilities across various formats (oral, written, digital).
  7. Capacity to engage collaboratively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  8. Fiscal responsibility.
  9. General technology proficiency, including knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Apps, email, social networking, and text messaging.
  10. Bachelor’s or 4-year degree required; preferred fields include elementary education, secondary education, Christian education, youth ministry, or a Master’s degree in Christian Education or Divinity.

TIME 

  • .125 FTE, equivalent to 5 hours per week.

COMPENSATION

  • The salary range is $21-23 per hour, depending on experience. This includes sick leave.

HOW TO APPLY

  • Send a resume and cover letter to jobs@firstchurchseattle.org.
  • All candidates must submit two professional references and pass the Child Abuse Training.
  • All candidates for the position must pass a nationwide background check.

EMPLOYMENT TERMS

Employment at First Church is at-will, allowing either the employee or the company to terminate the employment at any time, with or without cause or notice.

ABOUT FIRST CHURCH

We are a progressive, spiritual community advocating for the homeless and hungry, and creating a refuge for inclusive Christianity.

We’re called “First Church” because we are Seattle’s first congregation, established in 1853. We cherish our place in Seattle’s past, present, and future.

First Church is a proud member of the Reconciling Ministries Network, a community “mobilizing United Methodists of all sexual orientations and gender identities to transform our Church and world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love.”

First Church values diverse perspectives and life experiences. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans. First Church does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability.