Director of Children's and Youth Ministry

Reports to: Senior Pastor
Position type: Part-time with hope to build program to Full-time Position
Location: First United Methodist Church, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Compensation: $18.00- $22.00/ hour. Compensation to be based on experience, education and history.

Position Summary: The Director of Children’s and Youth Ministry will need to have a strong Christian faith, understand and teach the Bible, and follow a faithful call to serve children and youth. Outreach is mandatory for this position. They will develop age-appropriate programming and curriculum for both Middle School and High School youth as well as ensure a safe environment to allow them to grow in their faith. They will collaborate with the senior pastor and staff to advance the church’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Have the comfort and ability to reach out to Children in appropriate areas outside the Church and teach, lead and encourage them to learn about God.

  • Program leadership and development.

  • Design, implement, and evaluate comprehensive children’s and youth ministries that reflect the church’s theology and mission.

  • Oversee weekly programs such as Sunday school and youth group, and retreats.

  • Select or develop developmentally appropriate curriculum and resources.

  • Volunteer recruitment, training, and supervision.

  • Recruit, screen, train, schedule, and support volunteer leaders, teachers, and mentors.

  • Provide mentoring, care, and spiritual formation for children, youth, and families.

  • Safety, policy, and compliance.

  • Manage the children’s and youth ministry budget.

  • Oversee supplies, curriculum purchases, facility usage, and logistics for off-site events.

  • Communicate regularly with parents, volunteers, and the congregation.

  • Participate in staff meetings, planning, and special services.

  • Build relationships with local schools and community partners as appropriate.

Desired Outcome:

  • Grow regular program attendance for children and youth by a measurable goal.

  • Become a member of the Church.

  • Lead Children and Youth to having a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Qualifications Desired:

  • Committed Christian whose theology aligns with the church’s statement of faith.

  • Experience leading children’s and/or youth ministry.

  • Experience in outreach and recruiting.

  • Knowledge of child development, adolescent issues, and age-appropriate faith formation methods.

  • Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

  • Ability to pass background checks and comply with child protection policies.

  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required.

  • A degree in ministry, education, counseling, youth ministry, or related field.

  • First aid/CPR certification; training in youth mental health or trauma-informed care.

Personal Qualities:

  • Warm, approachable, and trustworthy with children, teens, and families.

  • Creative, energetic leader who inspires and equips Youth and volunteers.

  • Discreet and professional handling sensitive information.

  • Self-starter who balances visionary planning with administrative detail.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

  • Regular evening and weekend commitments.

  • Occasional lifting of supplies and equipment.

  • Possible travel for off-site events and overnight retreats as needed.

Background Checks and Safeguarding:

  • Employment contingent on satisfactory background checks, references, andadherence to child protection policies.

How to Apply:

  • Submit resume, cover letter, references, and a brief statement of faith and ministry philosophy to:
    Linda Kent- SPRC Chair
    FUMC
    310 S Main
    Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
    OR email to: vinceandlindakent@gmail.com