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Student Ministry Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$45 - $75/hr

NextGen/Family Ministry Director - Kalamazoo The River Church in downtown Kalamazoo is seeking a ... Student ministry at The River is essentially a fresh start. This is a builder's role for someone ...

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Student Ministry Director information

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$19K

$58.6K

$137K

How much do student ministry director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for student ministry director in the United States is $58,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,500.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a student ministry director do?

A Student Ministry Director oversees programs and activities designed to engage, mentor, and support middle and high school students within a church or faith-based organization. They are responsible for planning events, leading youth groups, and fostering spiritual growth among students. This role often involves recruiting and training volunteers, collaborating with parents, and ensuring that all activities align with the church's mission and values. The director also provides guidance and counseling to students as they navigate personal and spiritual challenges.

What are some common challenges a student ministry director faces when engaging with youth and their families?

A Student Ministry Director often navigates the challenge of building trust and meaningful relationships with both students and their families, especially in diverse communities with varying backgrounds and beliefs. Balancing administrative responsibilities with active mentorship and program planning can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting communication styles to connect with both middle and high school students, while maintaining strong collaboration with church staff and volunteers, is essential to fostering a vibrant and supportive ministry environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student ministry director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Ministry Director, you need a background in theology or ministry, experience working with youth, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with church management software, social media platforms, and event planning tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and relational skills help you connect with students, volunteers, and parents effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering spiritual growth, community engagement, and a supportive environment for young people.

What is the difference between Student Ministry Director vs Youth Pastor?

AspectStudent Ministry DirectorYouth Pastor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in youth ministry, education, or related field; certifications in youth counseling are commonOften requires similar educational background and certifications, with some roles emphasizing theological training
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily within church settings, organizing programs and events for studentsWorks within church environments, focusing on spiritual guidance and youth activities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many churches; some prefer 'Student Ministry Director' for administrative rolesCommonly used in churches to denote spiritual leadership for youth

The main difference lies in terminology; both roles focus on youth engagement within churches, with 'Student Ministry Director' often emphasizing program management and organization, while 'Youth Pastor' highlights spiritual leadership and pastoral care.

What cities are hiring for Student Ministry Director jobs?

Cities with the most Student Ministry Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Ministry jobs?

The most popular types of Student Ministry jobs are:

What states have the most Student Ministry Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Student Ministry Director jobs include:

Student Ministry Director

Living Hope Community Church

Perkasie, PA โ€ข On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About Us

Living Hope Community Church exists to reach, engage, transform, and equip people for life through the gospel of Jesus. Our Student Ministry is all about outreach and discipleship through healthy relationships. We mentor students, teach the Word of God, and create environments that are relational, relaxed, relevant, and real. We're looking for a leader with a heart for teenagers who wants to help students become followers of Jesus who make followers of Jesus.


The Role

As Student Ministries Director, you'll lead and shape our middle school and high school ministries across Sunday and midweek gatherings, mission trips, and retreats. You'll build genuine relationships with students and their families, recruit and develop volunteer leaders, and help students take real steps in their faith. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who loves students, thrives in a team, and wants to make a lasting impact in our community.


What You'll Do

  • Lead and disciple students in grades 6 through 12 through Sunday morning groups, Wednesday night middle school groups, Sunday night high school groups, large-group gatherings, and age-specific small groups
  • Build personal connections with students and leaders, coordinate weekly ministry meetings, speak as scheduled, and plan activities and events
  • Partner with parents to keep communication clear, warm, and effective
  • Plan and lead mission trips and our three main annual student retreats, locally and cross-culturally
  • Recruit, train, empower, and encourage volunteer leaders, and lead effectively through others
  • Collaborate with our Children's and Young Adult ministries to support students as they grow through the life of the church
  • Engage the community with a focus on reaching the unchurched and serving Dublin, Perkasie, and the surrounding towns
  • Serve in a central, multi-site support role to align culture, values, content, and training across campuses
  • Invest in students personally outside of regularly scheduled ministry, and contribute to the broader staff team through prayer, preparation, leadership development, and Sunday service responsibilities


What We're Looking For

  • A growing follower of Jesus who affirms and lives out the vision, mission, and values of Living Hope Community Church
  • A genuine love for students and a passion for outreach and discipleship
  • Proven leadership experience in student, youth, or related ministry (paid or volunteer)
  • Strong relational, communication, and organizational skills, including the ability to lead and develop volunteers
  • Personal and professional integrity and character
  • Willingness to adhere to the church's Employee Handbook and Constitution
  • A bachelor's degree or equivalent ministry experience preferred


Schedule & Work Environment

This is a full-time, exempt position (40 hours per week) that includes evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays, with scheduling adjusted to the needs of the ministry. The role operates in a professional office environment and also involves active ministry settings such as setting up and running games, team experiences, retreats, and mission trips. Some physical activity is required, including lifting up to 25 pounds and standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods. Employees provide their own transportation between campuses as needed.


Compensation & Benefits

  • $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience
  • Full-time, exempt; reports to the Campus Pastor
  • Health and dental insurance (employee premium covered by employer)
  • Disability insurance
  • 403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% employer contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
  • 10 paid holidays annually