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Head Pastor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freedom House Church International

Be Seen First

Teacher (Preschool / Daycare)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

Communicate with head Pastor and parents on students' growth and progress * Maintain the health and safety of all students * Weekly written and verbal report to the head Pastor. * Qualifications:

Northshore Christian Church

Lead Pastor

Everett, WA · On-site

Lead the vocational ministry staff and Academy staff, delegating supervisory responsibility to the Executive Pastor of Ministries for the church ministry staff, to the Head of School for the school ...

Northshore Christian Church

Lead Pastor

Everett, WA · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

... the Head of School for the school staff, to the Director of Finance for the business staff, and to the Campus Pastor for the facilities and security staff. In conjunction with members of the ...

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How much do head pastor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for head pastor in the United States is $159,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,000.00 and $170,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the responsibilities of a head pastor?

A Head Pastor leads a church congregation by providing spiritual guidance, preaching sermons, and overseeing worship services. They are responsible for the overall leadership and direction of the church, including administration, pastoral care, and supervision of staff and volunteers. Head Pastors often facilitate community outreach, conduct ceremonies such as weddings and funerals, and support the spiritual growth of their members. Their role also involves developing church vision, managing finances, and ensuring the church's mission is fulfilled.

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

To thrive as a Head Pastor, you need deep theological knowledge, pastoral counseling expertise, and typically a seminary degree or equivalent ministerial training. Familiarity with church management software, sermon preparation tools, and accreditation or ordination from a recognized denomination are often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, leadership, empathy, and strong communication abilities help build trust and guide congregations effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing spiritual leadership, managing church operations, and fostering a supportive faith community.

What are some common challenges faced by a head pastor in leading a congregation?

Head Pastors often encounter the challenge of balancing spiritual leadership with administrative responsibilities, such as managing staff, overseeing church finances, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies. They frequently navigate diverse expectations from congregation members, requiring strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, Head Pastors must stay engaged with the community, foster church growth, and support the personal development of both staff and volunteers, making time management and delegation essential for long-term success.

What is the difference between Head Pastor vs Associate Pastor?

AspectHead PastorAssociate Pastor
CredentialsTypically requires theological degree and ordinationSimilar credentials, often with additional specialization
Work EnvironmentLeads entire church congregation and oversees staffSupports the Head Pastor, often focusing on specific ministries
ResponsibilitiesPreaching, vision setting, administrative leadershipAssisting in sermons, pastoral care, program development

The Head Pastor is the primary spiritual leader and decision-maker for the church, while the Associate Pastor supports the Head Pastor and may oversee specific ministries. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same church environment, but their responsibilities differ in scope and leadership level.

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Head Pastor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Pastor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $159,999 per year, or $76.9 per hour.

Senior Pastor Mt. Carmel Evangelical Presbyterian Church

Ministrylist

Aliquippa, PA • On-site

$60 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

The Head (Senior) Pastor provides spiritual leadership, vision, and pastoral care to the congregation of Mt. Carmel EPC. This individual is responsible for leading worship, delivering engaging sermons, overseeing church staff, and guiding various ministries to foster spiritual growth and community engagement. The Head Pastor serves as the primary spiritual shepherd, ensuring the church’s mission and values are upheld in all aspects of its operations.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Worship & Sacraments:
    • Prepare and lead weekly worship services, including the development of the order of worship.
    • Deliver biblically sound and engaging sermons that inspire and challenge the congregation.
    • Administer the sacraments of Communion and Baptism.
    • Preside over funeral and memorial services, offering comfort and spiritual guidance to grieving families.
    • Meet quarterly with the Worship Team and Committee to plan and enhance worship experiences.
  • Staff Leadership & Oversight:
    • Provide direct supervision and leadership to all church staff members, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
    • Conduct regular staff meetings, performance reviews, and professional development discussions.
  • Ministry Leadership & Development:
    • Coordinate effectively with Mission Teams to further the church’s outreach and service initiatives.
    • Provide leadership and pastoral direction to the shepherding program, ensuring effective care for all members of the congregation.
    • Moderate Session meetings, guiding discussions and decisions in accordance with church governance.
    • Support the Deacons in their ministry of service and compassion within the church and community.
    • Assist in the planning and guidance of adult, young children, and student ministry programs, promoting spiritual formation across all age groups.
    • Support the Welcome Team in ensuring new members and visitors feel integrated and cared for.
    • Support the Prayer Ministry Team, fostering a culture of prayer within the church.
    • Help plan and coordinate “Kingdom Week” activities, promoting community engagement and service.
  • Community & Denominational Engagement:
    • Represent Mt. Carmel EPC by attending the monthly meeting of the Greater Aliquippa Ministerial Association, fostering inter-church cooperation and community outreach.
Qualifications:

Ordained or eligible to be ordained in The Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC)

  • Seminary graduate minimally required, and M Div or D Div preferred.
  • Proven experience in a senior pastoral or leadership role, demonstrating effective preaching, teaching, and pastoral care.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • A deep commitment to biblical truth and a passion for sharing the Gospel.
  • Ability to inspire, equip, and empower staff and lay leaders.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and individuals.
Working Conditions:
  • This is a full-time position requiring flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for worship services, meetings, and special events.
  • The Head Pastor will maintain a visible and active presence within the church community.
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