Director of Youth Ministry

Job Description: Director of Youth Ministry

St. Barnabas Lutheran Church – Cary, IL

Position Overview:

St. Barnabas Lutheran Church is seeking a passionate and dedicated Director of Youth
Ministry to lead, coordinate, and implement programs specifically targeting youth from
preschool through grade 8. Working closely with the Pastor and the Christian Education
Team, this role is responsible for maintaining existing programs and developing new
initiatives that help the youth of St. Barnabas develop spiritually and morally within a
grace-filled environment.

Qualifications:

● High School diploma or general education degree (GED); some college preferred.
● 1–3 years of experience in the education field or working with youth.
● Pass a background check.
● Complete Safeguarding God’s Children training program.
● Current CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain).

Key Responsibilities:

● Curriculum & Education: Research and implement appropriate Christian
education curricula for preschool through grade 6. Teach Confirmation Class as
needed.
● Youth Group Leadership: Plan and lead middle school youth group activities,
including Bible studies, service projects (e.g., FMSC), fun/fellowship, outreach,
and retreats.
● Seasonal & Special Events: Organize Vacation Bible School (one week in
summer) and seasonal activities such as Easter Eggstravaganza, Trunk or Treat,
and Morning in Bethlehem.
● Create New Programming: Create innovative ways to engage and support
youth by listening to the needs of the congregation.
● Volunteer Management: Recruit, obtain background checks, train, and
oversee volunteers to assist with Sunday School (September to May) and other
activities. Build a strong Christian Education Team.
● Relationship Building: Actively build strong relationships with all youth and
parents to foster a welcoming environment and grow participation.
● Communication & Reporting: Provide consistent, up-to-date communication
with youth, parents, and congregation via text, email, and social media. Submit
monthly reports to the church council and attend monthly ministry night and
weekly staff meetings.
● St. Barnabas Christian Preschool: Work with the preschool staff to find ways
to connect with the students and families of the school.
● Safety & Administration: Manage the youth ministry budget and track
expenses. Enforce church safety policies, including “Safeguarding God’s Children”
guidelines, background checks of all volunteers, ensuring proper boundaries in all
interactions (in-person, travel, social media).
● Spiritual Leadership: Commit to Jesus Christ with a clear understanding of St.
Barnabas’s theology of grace and forgiveness. Have a strong knowledge of the
Bible.

Personal Characteristics:

● One to three years in the education field or working with youth.
● Ability to take initiative, be resourceful, and collaborate as part of a team.
● Outgoing and approachable
● Caring, joyful, and good-humored approach to the youth
● Professional work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
● Strong organizational skills and the ability to handle multi-tasking.
● Proficient in technology and social media applications.
● Ability to communicate clearly in both speaking and writing.
● Serve as a role model and mentor for the youth.
● Able to work with and accept children of every race, national origin, immigration
status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, health
and mental health status, and neurodiversity.

Hours and Compensation:

Hours:

● Expected weekly hours occasionally vary with special events and are
approximately 15 to 20 hours per week to be recorded and submitted on-line
● Majority of hours to be worked in person at church

Salary/Hourly Pay:

● Approximately $18/hour, based on experience and education

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter by April 10, 2026, to:

Attn: Pastor Sarah Wilson
St. Barnabas Lutheran Church
8901 Cary Algonquin Road
Cary, IL 60013
847-639-3959
jobs@stbarnabas-cary.org
www.stbarnabas-cary.com