Children's Ministry Director
Salem Communications-San Francisco, Gardena, CA, United States
Department: Family Life / Children’s Ministry
Supervisor: Family Life Pastor
Exempt: Yes
Category: Full‑Time (40+ hours per week)
Position Summary
The Children’s Ministry Lead Director will plan, organize, develop, and direct a comprehensive ministry for children (birth–5th grade), aligning the ministry with the overall church vision and mission. This role exists to create a safe, joyful, and spiritually nurturing environment where children can grow in their faith and feel deeply loved and known.
The Children’s Ministry Lead Director provides vision, leadership, and hands‑on coordination for all children’s ministry programming, partnering closely with families, volunteers, and church leadership to build a thriving and effective ministry.
Accountability: This position is led by the Family Life Pastor and works in collaboration with church staff and ministry leaders. The Children’s Ministry will support and align with the overall mission, values, and vision of the church.
Departmental Responsibilities
Teaching
- Commit to regular Biblical study and age‑appropriate teaching of God’s Word
- Develop and oversee engaging, age‑appropriate curriculum aligned with church mission and values
- Provide teaching and support for both large group and small group environments
Leadership
- Create and carry out a Christ‑centered vision for Children’s Ministry
- Lead and oversee all children’s ministry programs (birth–5th grade)
- Recruit, train, schedule, and support volunteers and ministry leaders
- Provide leadership, encouragement, and development for volunteer teams
- Collaborate with church staff and participate in staff meetings
- Manage ministry budget, resources, and supplies as assigned
Development and Implementation of Ministry Environments
- Design and oversee weekly ministry environments and experiences for children
- Plan and execute special events (e.g., Vacation Bible School, family events, outreach opportunities)
- Ensure a safe, welcoming, and well‑organized environment for all children
- Follow and enforce all child safety policies and procedures
- Partner with parents and caregivers to support children’s spiritual growth
- Regularly evaluate ministry effectiveness and implement improvements
Ministry Team Participation
- Participate in regular meetings with the Family Life Pastor and church staff
- Collaborate across ministries to ensure alignment and effectiveness
- Stay informed on best practices and trends in children’s ministry
- Actively engage in ministry environments through leadership and support
Pastoral Responsibilities
- Build Christ-centered relationships with children, families, and volunteers
- Provide encouragement, support, and spiritual guidance to families
- Pray with and for children, parents, and ministry teams
- Support church-wide ministry efforts and events
- Model a shepherding presence within the ministry and church community
Personal Responsibilities
- Maintain a growing, personal relationship with God
- Model a Christ-centered lifestyle in both personal and professional settings
- Actively participate in church life and community
- Demonstrate a heart for discipleship, service, and outreach
Qualifications
Minimum Education: Ministry training, degree, or certification (preferred but not required)
Minimum Experience: Experience in children’s ministry, education, or a related field (preferred)
Minimum Skills:
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to recruit, inspire, and lead volunteers
- Comfortable teaching and speaking to both children and adults
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively
- Demonstrated passion for children’s spiritual growth
Personal Attributes
- Warm, patient, and enthusiastic
- Dependable and well-organized
- Team-oriented with a servant-hearted leadership style
- Creative, flexible, and proactive
Schedule & Compensation
- Full-time position (40+ hours per week)
- Schedule includes Sundays, weekdays, and occasional evenings/events
- Health insurance benefits available
- Work location: In person