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Full Pastor Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Full Pastor information

See Athens, GA salary details

$36.2K

$58.8K

$82.1K

How much do full pastor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for full pastor in Athens, GA is $58,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $67,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full pastor?

Full Pastors are ordained leaders within a church who are responsible for providing spiritual guidance, preaching, administering sacraments, and overseeing the daily operations and ministries of a congregation. They often offer counseling, lead worship services, and perform ceremonies such as weddings, baptisms, and funerals. Full Pastors may also be involved in community outreach, teaching, and mentoring other church staff or volunteers. Their role is central to the spiritual and organizational life of their faith community.

What is the difference between Full Pastor vs Associate Pastor?

AspectFull PastorAssociate Pastor
CredentialsTypically requires a theological degree and ordinationSimilar credentials, often with less experience required
Work EnvironmentLeads entire congregation, responsible for sermons, vision, and administrationSupports the full pastor, may oversee specific ministries or age groups
ResponsibilitiesPreaching, pastoral care, church leadership, administrative dutiesAssists in preaching, counseling, program management, and event planning

The main difference between a Full Pastor and an Associate Pastor lies in their scope of responsibilities and leadership roles. Full Pastors typically lead the entire church and make major decisions, while Associate Pastors support the full pastor and focus on specific areas of ministry. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the same church environment, but their level of authority and duties differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full pastor?

To thrive as a Full Pastor, you need a deep understanding of theology, pastoral counseling, and leadership, often supported by a divinity degree and ordination. Familiarity with church management software, communication platforms, and biblical study tools is commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong public speaking abilities help build community and offer effective guidance. These skills and qualities are essential for providing spiritual leadership, fostering congregation growth, and managing church operations successfully.

What are some common challenges full pastors face when leading a congregation, and how can they address them?

Full Pastors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with spiritual leadership, addressing diverse congregational needs, and managing conflicts within the church community. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and ongoing professional development are crucial for navigating these challenges. Many Full Pastors also benefit from building a supportive leadership team and seeking mentorship from experienced clergy to sustain both personal well-being and the health of the congregation.

What are popular job titles related to Full Pastor jobs in Athens, GA?

For Full Pastor jobs in Athens, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Full Pastor jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Full Pastor job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Pastor job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,806 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Daytime Outpatient Group Facilitator

Good Landing Recovery

Dacula, GA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Company - Good Landing Recovery is a collection of substance abuse treatment facilities that provide the full American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) continuum of care. Our facilities are fully state licensed, environments fueled by the passion to stop the devastation of addiction and mental health. We combine the best in psychiatric medicine, clinical interventions, and treatment modalities to create a patient-centered recovery plan. In addition, we provide an unprecedented faith-led approach to treatment. This differentiator makes Good Landing Recovery the gold standard in evidenced-based treatment integrated with Christian principles. It has also produced phenomenal growth and best-in-class clinical outcomes.

Our motto is simple yet powerful - Your Comeback Story Starts Here!


The Opportunity- We are looking to expand and enhance our group psychotherapy client experience by hiring additional part-time Day-time PHP/IOP Group Facilitators. These part-time and PRN team members are an important part of our treatment program. Candidates selected for this role will be expected to lead effective group sessions designed to impact clients diagnosed with substance use and co-occuring mental health diagnoses.


Our group format is designed to provide therapeutic group experiences in a dynamic, motivational, and inspirational format. This role is primarily designed for clinicians, medical professionals, addiction counselors, or peer support specialists. However, individuals from all sectors are encouraged to apply so long as they are passionate about helping others, disciplined enough to follow program guidelines, and are trained by education and/or training to deliver the content they provide. This may include athletes, business leaders, government leaders, pastors, etc. Experts from all walks of life have invested in our clients with great degrees of success and personal fulfillment.

If you are interested in joining a team of group facilitators that are impacting clients in a real, meaningful, and life-changing way, we would love to hear from you.


This opportunity is perfect for someone looking for supplemental income and/or someone that needs hours for licensure/certification in a counseling or addiction discipline.


The position requires a vibrant communicator possessing above-average leadership, administrative and interpersonal skills. Successful candidates should be considered an expert in their field and must be able to structure engaging content in an effective and captivating manner.


Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree or above in a field that is directly related or could be considered complementary to patients working through substance abuse and mental health diagnosis

If in recovery, must have at least two (2) years of clean time.

Certification/Licensure:

  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Licensed in the State of Georgia as an LPC, LCSW, or LMFT (preferred, but not required)
  • Certified in the State of Georgia as a CAC-I, CAC-II, LAPC, LMSW, LAMFT, CADC-I, or CADC-II (preferred, but not required)
  • Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health, Psychology, Sociology, or related field (required if not licensed or certified)


Experience:

Must have demonstrated ability to design, develop and modify evidence-based treatment programming.

Must be a motivational leader that can inspire, direct, coach, and motivate.

Experience with inpatient or outpatient substance abuse environments.