Director of Student Ministries

Slingshot Group • Fayetteville, NC

1d

About The Position

The Director of Student Ministries leads Highland Presbyterian Church’s ministry to students in grades 6–12, helping them develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a lasting connection to the church. This full-time leader invests in students, including those who have struggled to find their place, by building trust and establishing consistent rhythms of discipleship, fellowship, and service.

Reporting to Senior Pastor Rev. Chip Stapleton, the director partners with the Youth Committee and serves under the oversight of the Session. The role includes teaching and mentoring students, developing volunteers, communicating with parents, and planning gatherings, retreats, and service opportunities. The director is expected to take initiative, recognize needs, develop thoughtful plans, follow through, and keep others informed.

Highland Presbyterian Church is a welcoming congregation in Fayetteville, North Carolina’s historic Haymount neighborhood. Approximately 200 people gather each weekend at its single campus for contemporary and traditional worship. The church’s mission, “Sharing God’s Love,” is reflected in its intergenerational community and service, including a Food Pantry serving approximately 250–400 families each week and a partnership with Friendship House Fayetteville. These ministries provide opportunities for students to practice their faith through service and relationships.

Requirements

• At least two years of youth ministry leadership or equivalent experience.
• A vibrant, growing relationship with Jesus Christ and a life marked by integrity, humility, and care for others.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with adolescents and help them grow through biblical teaching and personal discipleship.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, including dependable planning and follow-through.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage responsibilities within a staff culture built on trust.
• Ability to recruit, equip, and encourage volunteers while partnering effectively with parents.
• Willingness to serve within Highland’s PCUSA and Reformed context and collaborate with pastors, the Youth Committee, and the Session.
• Sound judgment, appropriate boundaries, and commitment to student safety and church policies.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s degree in theology, youth ministry, or a related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Build personal relationships with students and families, maintain consistent contact, and intentionally reconnect with students who have struggled to connect.
• Select or develop biblical teaching for weekly gatherings and Sunday School that connects Scripture to adolescent life and encourages lasting faith in Jesus Christ.
• Plan and carry out weekly gatherings, service opportunities, retreats, and ministry traditions, with timely preparation and follow-through.
• Partner with the Youth Committee to recruit, equip, and encourage adults who will invest consistently in students.
• Communicate clearly with parents about ministry plans and help families support students’ spiritual growth.
• Welcome rising sixth graders, lead the Confirmation process, and celebrate graduating seniors.
• Create opportunities for students to participate in worship, serve their neighbors, and build relationships across generations.
• Steward the annual youth ministry budget of approximately $24,000 and coordinate practical details of ministry activities.
• Set priorities, communicate progress, follow church policies and student protection practices, and seek pastoral guidance when needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed