Associate Pastor
About The Position
In partnership with and supported by the Congregation Lead Pastor, the Associate Pastor is responsible to lead and integrate adult discipleship, guest experience, and outreach to foster spiritual growth, welcome newcomers, and build a strong volunteer culture. This position reports to the Lead Pastor on the Congregation team. A full-time position, the schedule generally includes weekend services, meetings at our office in Irvine, and time spent with the congregation team and in the community. This position is eligible for ministerial licensing so long as the candidate meets the qualifications as set by Mariners.
Requirements
- 5-7 years of leadership experience in discipleship ministry, volunteer management, and/or guest services
- Deep biblical knowledge and a commitment to gospel-centered, Christ-like leadership
- Exceptional project-management, organizational, and communication skills
- Proven volunteer-recruitment and training experience
- Proficiency with Rock (or similar church-database/CRM)
- Data-oriented mindset: able to translate feedback into strategic action
- Servant-hearted, relational, and collaborative, with an ability to cast vision and inspire others
- Love Jesus and call themselves Christians.
- Embrace a high biblical standard of personal conduct and lifestyle.
- Agree to and adhere to the church's statement of faith, leadership commitment, and position papers.
- Attend Mariners Church.
Nice To Haves
- Work during Christmas Eve and Easter services.
- Participate then facilitate Rooted once per ministry year.
Responsibilities
- Spearhead an aligned discipleship vision and implementation alongside Lead Pastor including Rooted, Life Groups, and Outreach Opportunities.
- Plan and oversee Rooted & Life Groups, ensuring consistent growth and engagement
- Serve as liaison with the Mariners Outreach team, connecting the church body with local service opportunities
- Foster a culture of group serving in alignment with Mariners Outreach strategy
- Leadership of Weekend Experience in collaboration with Lead Pastor and Ministry Coordinator to ensure volunteers are equipped, empowered, and encouraged to create a hospitable and welcoming environment.
- Oversee volunteer onboarding, scheduling, and care for Guest Services and Next Step teams
- Ensure smooth weekend operations: set-up/tear-down, parking, check-in, seating, and guest follow-up
- Liaise with Landlord, Facilities/Maintenance teams to ensure building readiness (AV, lighting, HVAC, cleanliness)
- Coordinate vendors and facilities staff for large-scale events, seasonal décor, and emergency procedures
- Responsible for shepherding, equipping, and growing teams of volunteers across different ministry contexts.
- Recruit, develop, and care for volunteers across discipleship, guest services, and outreach, building up “leaders of leaders”
- Manage systems, the volunteer roadmap, and best practices to encourage volunteer health and retention
- Oversee the Ministry Coordinator to support all ministry efforts
- Gather and analyze guest and volunteer feedback; identify trends and implement improvements
- Partner with worship, communications, and safety
- Model and promote a culture of excellence, teamwork, and Christ-like service
Benefits
- Health insurance (medical, dental and vision)
- 403b Retirement Saving Plan
- Paid vacation
- Paid time off to serve
- Discounts at the Mariners Cafe and Bookstore
- Tuition discount for Mariners Church Preschool
- Opportunity to attend ministry events and conferences
- Working alongside a community of supportive, like-minded believers
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
