Director of Border Engagement Ministries

Point Loma Nazarene University • San Diego, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

PLNU is seeking a relational and mission-driven Director of Border Engagement Ministries to create transformative opportunities for students to engage in cross-cultural ministry along the San Diego–Tijuana border region. This role integrates spiritual formation, experiential learning, and partnership development to foster meaningful engagement in local and global contexts.

Requirements

• Strong experience in cross-cultural ministry, missions, or community engagement, and is bilingual in Spanish and English.
• Ability to build and sustain partnerships with churches, nonprofits, and ministry leaders
• Demonstrated leadership in developing and mentoring student leaders
• Strong program planning and execution skills across multiple initiatives
• Ability to navigate complex cultural, social, and border-related dynamics with sensitivity
• Effective communicator with public speaking and group facilitation experience
• Ability to manage logistics for trips, events, and ministry programs
• Experience assessing programs and implementing continuous improvements
• Strong collaboration skills to work across campus departments and with external partners
• Ability to manage budgets and ensure responsible stewardship of program funds
• A minimum of bachelor's degree in ministry, educational leadership, or a related field; master’s degree preferred
• Understanding the Church of the Nazarene, its theological foundations, organizational structure, and mission history
• Knowledge of the San Diego/Tijuana border region with special regard to immigration and other pressing social issues
• Oral and written communication fluency in both Spanish and English
• Public speaking ability
• Ability to relate to and understand contemporary university students
• Strong organizational and administrative skills and ability to work independently and accomplish tasks under deadline stresses
• Understanding and experience in cross-cultural ministry, Christian missions, and compassionate ministries
• Positive, friendly attitude and the ability to function effectively with colleagues as part of a professional Spiritual Development team
• Availability for regular travel for site visits and planning meetings
• Physical ability for prolonged periods of office work and meetings, including regular use of computer equipment
• Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement.
• Staff agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant.
• The job offer is contingent on the successful completion of a background check.
• PLNU will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local "Fair Chance" laws.

Nice To Haves

• District License/Ordination in the Church of the Nazarene preferred

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a diverse portfolio of ministry opportunities including day trips, weekend experiences, and extended immersion programs
• Recruit, train, and mentor student leaders to plan and lead ministry experiences in collaboration with host partners
• Build and maintain relationships with Church of the Nazarene leaders and other ministry partners in México and the Southwest U.S.
• Coordinate logistics for ministry trips including travel, scheduling, and participant preparation
• Recruit and support faculty, staff, and alumni sponsors participating in ministry programs
• Assist in the development and coordination of summer ministry internship opportunities
• Serve as a campus pastor supporting chapel, student spiritual care, and Christian formation initiatives
• Evaluate program safety and make informed decisions in collaboration with university leadership
• Conduct program assessments and implement improvements based on findings
• Plan and facilitate educational events and border engagement experiences in collaboration with faculty and departments
• Serve as campus pastor for Liberty Station Chapel services alongside a chapel intern designated to serve at Liberty Station.
• Manage program budgets and ensure financial accountability

Benefits

• health
• dental
• tuition benefits for employees and dependents
• competitive retirement matching
• vacation and sick time
• 15 paid holidays per year
• opportunities to engage with our community including staff chapel and a robust wellness program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level