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Winnetka Congregational Church

Interim Director of Youth Ministries

  • Winnetka, IL
  • Part-Time
  • Non-denominational / no denominational affiliation

Job Summary

Description

Job Summary:
Winnetka Congregational Church, a non-denominational Protestant Christian church on Chicago’s North Shore, is seeking a Part-time Interim Director of Youth Ministries for the 2025/2026 program year.  We have an active membership of about 400 and an average Sunday attendance of about 100.  In alignment with WCC’s values and beliefs, the Director of Youth Ministries will lead, develop, and oversee the youth ministry, including weekly gatherings, Bible studies, and outreach events focusing on middle and high school youth.  This role reports to the Senior Pastor and is responsible for creating a welcoming and engaging environment where youth can connect with God, build meaningful relationships, and develop a heart for service. The Youth Pastor will work closely with church leadership, staff, and volunteers to align youth ministry efforts with the church’s vision. This role does not include confirmation which is led by Pastors and adult faith guides.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

  • Program Leadership and Development:
    • Plan, organize, and lead weekly youth gatherings, church school and small groups.
    • Develop and implement engaging programs that encourage spiritual growth, fellowship, and service including Advent/Christmas activities such as the Pageant, Gift Fair and Wish Tree.  Coordinating with youth for their participation in Mission Doing activities.
    • Create a safe and inclusive environment for all youth to explore and grow in their faith.
  • Teaching and Discipleship:
    • Prepare and deliver biblically-based messages and lessons relevant to youth.
    • Guide youth in understanding and applying Christian principles to their daily lives.
    • Develop and nurture small group leaders to facilitate discipleship within the youth ministry.
  • Mentorship and Pastoral Care:
    • Build relationships with youth, offering support, guidance, and pastoral care.
    • Be available for individual counseling, mentorship, and crisis intervention as needed.
    • Partner with parents to support the spiritual growth of their children.
  • Event Planning and Outreach:
    • Organize retreats, camps, service projects, and the annual high school mission trip to promote spiritual growth and community.  This includes planning for and overseeing fundraising efforts for these activities.
    • Develop outreach activities to engage youth in the local community and invite new students to participate.
    • Encourage youth to be involved in church-wide activities and worship services.
  • Volunteer Recruitment and Training:
    • Recruit, train, and mentor a team of adult volunteers to support youth ministry efforts.
    • Provide leadership development opportunities for both youth and volunteers.
    • Ensure that all youth ministry activities follow church safety policies and guidelines.
  • Safety, Administration and Communication:
    • Ensure that all children’s ministry activities follow the church’s safety policies and best practices.
    • Oversee Safe Church background checks and training for volunteers to provide a secure environment.
    • Manage the youth ministry budget and resources effectively.
    • Communicate regularly with parents, volunteers, and church leadership about youth ministry activities.
    • Maintain an active website, online and social media presence for youth ministry communication.
    • Participate in weekly staff meetings, and 1:1’s with leadership.

Desired Skills

Qualifications:

  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Theology, Ministry, Youth Ministry, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 2 years of experience in youth ministry or a related field.
    • Proven ability to connect with and mentor middle and high school students.
  • Theological Alignment:
    • Strong alignment with the theological beliefs and values of WCC.
  • Skills and Abilities:
    • Excellent communication, teaching, and relational skills.
    • Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
    • Ability to work collaboratively with church staff, volunteers, and parents.
    • Proficiency in using social media and digital platforms for ministry.
  • Safe Church:
    • Complete all the requirements of WCC’s Safe Church Policy, including receiving and reading a copy of the Policy, acknowledging receipt of and compliance with the Policy, completing an on-line training and authorizing WCC to do a background check on you before you begin employment.

Personal Characteristics:

  • A genuine passion for working with youth and sharing the love of Christ.
  • Demonstrates integrity, humility, and a strong personal faith.
  • Approachable, compassionate, and a good listener.
  • Creative, energetic, and adaptable to the needs of youth.

 

INCLUSION

Full Inclusion

Salary

$25.00 – $30.00 per hour

Benefits

This role is ideal for someone who is completing their Master’s or seminary degree in the Chicago area.  Working about 20 hours per week, this role does include working on Sunday.  The position begins immediately and does not require ordination.

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