First United Methodist Church, a large-membership, downtown congregation of “Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors” in Cookeville, TN, a vibrant college town of 32,000, is seeking a Director of Youth Ministries to lead a comprehensive ministry of youth.

Position Summary:

The Director of Youth Ministries leads the youth to love God and one another in Christian community, empowering them to grow as disciples, and equipping them to live their faith boldly in the world.

Primary Qualifications:

●       Sense of calling to youth ministry and a commitment to Christ.

●       Understanding of and commitment to United Methodist theology and practices.

●       Ability to relate to, work alongside and lead youth from different backgrounds and personalities in fellowship with each other, the community, and Christ.

●       Possess excellent administrative and interpersonal skills.

●       Ability to plan, organize, lead, and guide regularly scheduled and spontaneous activities related to youth ministry.

●       Competence in an open-minded approach to basic lay counseling and listening skills appropriate for youth.

●       Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field and 5-year experience in youth centered work is preferred.

Primary Responsibilities:

●       Coordinate all aspects of the 7^th-12^th grade youth group, ensuring there is opportunity to develop fellowship, spiritual formation, discipleship, and the experience of Christian community.

●       Develop relationships and maintain regular communication with parents and youth.

●       Plan, coordinate, and evaluate provided resources and curriculum for the youth for all classes and events.

●       Supervise part-time youth staff.

●       Support and guide the work of the youth council in an annual process of evaluating the vision and goals of the youth ministry and directing monthly planning sessions.

●       Secure all necessary funds, travel arrangements, leadership and adult chaperones, and provide Christian teaching, time for worship, prayer and scripture study for youth trips.

●       Recruit, assist, and train volunteer youth workers.

●       Be an advocate for youth and educate the congregation about the hopes, concerns, and needs of youth in the local church and the community.

●       Work cooperatively with all FUMC staff, communicate event and calendaring information to the appropriate staff members as well as participate in all required meetings.

●       Prepare, submit, and administer a youth budget in consultation with the youth council.

●       Conduct the ministry of youth in compliance with the FUMC Safe Sanctuaries policy.

●       Work cooperatively with others to maintain a positive outlook and disposition, and be flexible in solving problems.

●       Weekly attendance at worship services with our congregation is expected.

●       Other opportunities deemed appropriate with demonstrated gifts and abilities.

Salary is negotiable. To apply, please send a cover letter and resume by email. Eventually, if discussions progress, FUMC will need references and a background check.

Contact: Rob Wheeler