Director of Children and Youth Ministries (Part-Time)
Position Overview
The United Methodist Church of Chagrin Falls is seeking a passionate, energetic, and faith-filled leader to serve as our Director of Children and Youth Ministries. We are looking for an individual who has a deep love for Christ, a heart for young people, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping children, youth, and families grow in their faith.
The ideal candidate will be a dynamic relationship-builder, a creative program developer, and an inspiring mentor who can cultivate meaningful connections within the church and the broader community. This individual will work collaboratively with church staff, volunteers, parents, and lay leaders to create welcoming, engaging, and transformative opportunities for spiritual growth.
The Director will provide visionary leadership for the Church's children and youth ministries, helping young people develop a vibrant and lasting faith while fostering a culture of belonging, service, and discipleship.
Hours
Approximately 20–25 hours per week, with additional hours required during special events such as Vacation Bible School, mission trips, retreats, and seasonal programming.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree
- Previous experience in children's ministry, youth ministry, education, camps, nonprofit programs, or similar youth-focused leadership roles
- Experience recruiting, training, and managing volunteers
- Familiarity with United Methodist theology and practices, or willingness to learn
Accountability
The Director is accountable to the Church's Staff Parish Relations Committee, which delegates day-to-day training and operational direction to the pastor. Additionally, the Director will communicate and coordinate activities with the Christian Education Team and, as needed, the Early Learning Board.
General Responsibilities
The Director will provide enthusiastic and innovative leadership for the Church's ministries with children and youth. This individual will inspire participation, nurture relationships, recruit and empower volunteers, and create engaging opportunities for faith formation that help young people encounter God's love and develop meaningful connections within the church community.
The Director will work collaboratively with the pastor, staff, volunteers, and ministry teams to cultivate a welcoming and vibrant environment where children, youth, and families can grow spiritually and actively participate in the life of the church. The director will complete the church's children and youth safety training and ensure adult volunteers in the program do likewise. They will abide at all times by the church's safety policies for ministry with vulnerable people and will ensure that volunteers do so as well.
1. Children’s Ministry
The Director will provide creative and engaging leadership for programs serving children and their families, including:
- Planning and coordinating Children's Worship and Sunday School programs.
- Directing and leading Vacation Bible School and related children's events.
- Participating in, with the future goal of planning and leading, the weekly Methodist Preschool program (currently known as "Ark").
- Planning and implementing an annual Children's Sunday worship service.
- Promoting children's programs and events.
Responsibilities include:
- Selecting curriculum materials and developing programming.
- Organizing and maintaining ministry resources.
- Recruiting, training, and supporting volunteer leaders.
- Coordinating volunteers for Vacation Bible School and special events.
- Building relationships with families connected to the Methodist Preschool and Parents Morning Out programs.
2. Youth Ministry
The Director will serve as a visible, trusted, and approachable presence for all middle school and high school youth ministries, including:
- Planning and leading regular youth gatherings, activities, and fellowship opportunities.
- Coordinating and assisting with confirmation classes in partnership with the pastor.
- Planning and implementing an annual Youth Sunday worship service.
- Coordinating youth retreats, lock-ins, mission projects, and outreach opportunities.
- Maintaining meaningful connections with youth and their families.
- Promoting youth programs and events.
Responsibilities include:
- Developing age-appropriate curriculum and programming.
- Coordinating with volunteers and church staff.
- Overseeing ministry resources and equipment.
- Encouraging youth participation in worship, service, and church life.
3. Adult Discipleship Support
The Director will provide limited support to adult discipleship ministries by:
- Assisting with the promotion of discipleship opportunities.
- Consulting with the pastor and Christian Education Team regarding faith formation initiatives.
- Supporting intergenerational ministry opportunities when appropriate.
Primary responsibility for adult discipleship programming will remain with the pastor, lay leaders, and the Christian Education Team.
Weekly, Monthly, and Other Periodic Commitments
The Director's work will primarily be performed on-site at the Church, with flexibility for ministry-related activities off-site. The Director is expected to:
- Be present on Sunday mornings to support children's and youth ministries.
- Attend staff meetings and meetings directly related to children and youth ministry.
- Participate in Church Council, Christian Education Team, Early Learning Board, and other meetings as requested by the pastor when topics directly relate to the Director's responsibilities.
Working hours will be established in consultation with the pastor and Staff Parish Relations Committee. Flexibility is expected, including occasional evenings and weekends.
Salary
$22,000–$28,000 annually, based on experience, qualifications, and agreed-upon weekly hours.
Benefits
Benefits may be provided on a prorated basis as determined by church policy and applicable employment regulations.
Pay: $22,000.00 - $28,000.00 per year
Application Question(s):
- Are you available to work on Sundays?
- Are you willing to undergo a comprehensive child safety background check as part of the hiring process?
Education:
Experience:
- Volunteer management: 1 year (Required)
- Children's or youth ministries: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 (Required)
Work Location: In person
