Children's Ministry Director - Hillside Community Church

U.S. Church Ministries•Vermillion, SD

About The Position

The full-time Children's Ministry Director provides leadership and oversight for children's ministry from nursery through fifth grade. The director cultivates a welcoming, effective, engaging, and age-appropriate environment where children can grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and His Church. The role includes developing or selecting curriculum, managing volunteers, and collaborating with church leadership to minister to Hillside families. The director oversees a comprehensive children's ministry program that supports spiritual growth and complements Hillside's core values. This includes nursery and early childhood care, educational materials, events and trips, intergenerational relationships, age-appropriate service opportunities, and Sunday and midweek gatherings. The director also partners with parents by providing regular communication, resources, and encouragement to support discipleship at home. The position manages volunteers, events, budget, ministry resources, and the safety of children's spaces. The director champions child-protection policies and coordinates with the church security team. The role is based primarily in the church office and children's ministry environments, with regular Sunday and midweek responsibilities and occasional events. Flexibility is essential. The director reports directly to the Pastor of Ministries and serves under the overall leadership and spiritual oversight of the Lead Pastor and Elder Board. Performance is evaluated annually by the Pastor of Ministries. The position may require licensing with The Christian & Missionary Alliance.

Requirements

Proven experience leading or working within a children's ministry or educational program.
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability and willingness to communicate clearly and regularly with parents and volunteers through email, text, and/or ministry platforms.
Ability and willingness to recruit, equip, and inspire volunteers through effective leadership and appreciation.
Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
Ability to use ministry software programs such as Planning Center and Pro-Presenter, or willingness to learn.
Proficiency in planning and organizing educational content.
Compassionate and approachable, with a passion for working with children and their families.
Commitment to maintaining a safe environment for children.
Willingness to complete a background check and required child safety training.
Demonstrates a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Lives above reproach in accordance with biblical standards.
Agrees with and supports Hillside's statement of faith and mission.
Passionate about discipling children and equipping families.
Displays humility, integrity, and a servant's heart in leadership.
Displays a teachable spirit and receives guidance with humility.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in theology, education, or a related field; equivalent experience in children's ministry leadership will be considered.
Experience in volunteer management is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive children's ministry program that nurtures spiritual growth and complements Hillside's core values.
Oversee nursery care and early childhood ministry.
Choose educational materials and plan events and trips.
Facilitate intergenerational relationships and create age-appropriate service opportunities for children.
Coordinate Sunday and midweek gatherings.
Partner with parents through regular communication, resources, and encouragement to help them disciple their children at home.
Recruit, train, appreciate, and supervise volunteers, ensuring they are prepared to deliver lessons and lead activities safely and effectively.
Collaborate and communicate with church leadership, staff, and parents to align ministry with church goals and the needs of children and families.
Plan, coordinate, and oversee special events, including holiday programs, VBS, summer camps, and community outreach.
Manage the children's ministry budget and steward funds responsibly while providing high-quality resources and materials.
Ensure children's ministry spaces are safe and inviting.
Adhere to and champion child-protection policies, including background checks, abuse-prevention training, and secure check-in/check-out procedures.
Communicate and coordinate with the church security team to maintain a safe environment for children and volunteers.
Become an active member of HCC and regularly participate in the life of the church.