Work at Ekklesia
Thank you for your interest in working for Ekklesia! Please see our current open positions below.
Youth Pastor
(Middle School & High School Ministries)
Reports To: Pastor of Ministries
Department: Student Ministries
Status: Full-Time
Position Overview
The Youth Pastor is responsible for leading, developing, and growing a dynamic student ministry for middle school and high school students. This role focuses on discipleship, outreach, leadership development, and community engagement, helping students develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ while equipping them to live out their faith.
The Youth Pastor will cultivate a vibrant ministry environment that connects students to the church, reaches unchurched youth in the community, and partners with families to support spiritual growth. This position emphasizes intentional presence on school campuses, community outreach, and creating engaging events that connect students to the Gospel. The ideal candidate is gifted at communicating biblical truth in ways that are engaging, relatable, and understandable for middle school and high school students.
Key Responsibilities
Student Ministry Leadership
Provide vision, leadership, and oversight for all middle school and high school ministries.
Plan and lead weekly youth gatherings, small groups, and discipleship environments.
Develop a clear pathway for students to grow spiritually from middle school through high school.
Foster a welcoming, engaging environment where students feel known, valued, and connected.
Discipleship & Spiritual Formation
Create intentional discipleship strategies that help students grow in biblical knowledge, spiritual disciplines, and Christian character.
Develop and mentor student leaders.
Equip volunteer leaders to effectively disciple students.
Provide pastoral care and guidance for students and families.
Community Outreach & Evangelism
Lead strategic efforts to reach unchurched students in the surrounding community.
Develop creative outreach events and programs designed to attract and engage new students.
Build relationships with local schools, coaches, teachers, and administrators.
Maintain a visible and positive presence on school campuses through events, games, and student activities when appropriate.
Events & Ministry Programming
Plan and execute key ministry events such as retreats, camps, mission trips, conferences, and outreach events.
Develop creative programming that communicates biblical truth in relevant and engaging ways.
Coordinate special events that encourage students to invite friends and connect with the church.
Volunteer Leadership Development
Recruit, train, and shepherd a team of adult volunteers and small group leaders.
Create leadership structures that empower volunteers to lead effectively.
Provide ongoing coaching, encouragement, and spiritual support for ministry leaders.
Family Partnership
Partner with parents to support the spiritual development of their students.
Provide communication, resources, and encouragement to families.
Facilitate opportunities for parents to engage in the discipleship process.
Collaboration & Church Integration
Work collaboratively with the church staff and ministries to support the overall mission and vision of the church.
Ensure the student ministry is integrated into the broader life of the church.
Participate in staff meetings, leadership development, and church-wide initiatives.
Qualifications
Spiritual & Personal
A growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
A clear calling to student ministry and discipleship.
Alignment with the beliefs, mission, and values of the church.
Demonstrates spiritual maturity, integrity, and strong character.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in ministry, theology, or a related field preferred.
Experience leading or serving in youth ministry.
Proven ability to lead teams and develop volunteers.
Skills & Strengths
Gifted at communicating biblical truth in engaging and culturally relevant ways to middle school and high school students.
Strong relational skills with students, parents, and volunteers.
Passion for evangelism and outreach to unchurched youth.
Leadership and organizational skills.
Ability to plan and execute events and ministry initiatives.
Key Characteristics
Passionate about reaching the next generation.
Relational and approachable with students.
Missional mindset toward the local community.
Creative and energetic in ministry programming.
Team-oriented and collaborative with church staff.
Success Indicators
Growing engagement among middle school and high school students.
Increased outreach impact within local schools and the community.
Strong volunteer leadership team actively discipling students.
Clear pathways for students to grow spiritually and become leaders.
Students actively inviting friends and participating in church life.
If you are interested in applying for this position, please send a resume and cover letter to jobs@ekklesiaeugene.org