Kids Ministry Assistant (SHINE/Special Needs)

Illuminate Community Church•Scottsdale, AZ

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Kids Ministry Assistant serves as a key member of the Family Ministries team by providing administrative support, volunteer coordination, ministry organization, and Sunday operational assistance, with a special needs focus. This position exists to help create safe, welcoming, organized, and Christ-centered environments where children and families can encounter Jesus while equipping and encouraging the volunteers who make ministry possible. This role focuses on supporting the day-to-day operations of Kids Ministry and SHINE Ministry through volunteer management, administrative organization, event preparation, and weekend ministry support.

Requirements

Minimum 2–3 years of experience working with individuals with special needs (church, school, nonprofit, or therapeutic setting)
Working knowledge of a range of disabilities (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing, developmental delays, physical disabilities)
Ability to develop and implement individualized support strategies and inclusive environments
Heart for special needs, children's discipleship and family ministry.
Flexibility to adapt to changing ministry needs in a fast-paced environment.
Maintains strict confidentiality and sound judgement when handling sensitive information related to church operations, staff, and congregants.
Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills.
Works effectively in a team-oriented environment, collaborating with staff, volunteers, and ministry leaders.
Displays initiative, reliability, and strong organizational skills.
Able to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism.
Functions effectively both behind the scenes and in public-facing situations, depending on ministry needs.
A committed follower of Jesus Christ whose life reflects biblical character and aligns with Illuminate Community Church’s Statement of Faith, Position Statements and Staff Handbook.
Demonstrates a high level of personal and professional integrity, striving to live above reproach in both personal life and ministry responsibilities.
Supports and promotes a Christ-centered work environment, contributing positively to staff unity and the mission of the church.
Serves as a Christlike example to the church body, fellow staff and the broader community through conduct, attitude, and relationships.
Demonstrates humility, teachability, and a servant-hearted approach to ministry.
Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move classroom furniture or ministry supplies as needed.
Ability to actively participate in children's ministry environments during weekday/weekend services and events.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience serving in children's ministry, education, administration, or a related field preferred.
Experience working with volunteers or coordinating teams is beneficial, as well as event planning.

Responsibilities

Assist with recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, and caring for Kids/SHINE Ministry volunteers.
Manage weekly volunteer schedules through Planning Center (PCO).
Send volunteer reminder emails, confirmation texts, lesson plans, and ministry updates.
Fill volunteer openings and respond to schedule changes throughout the week.
Prepare and distribute volunteer newsletters and communications.
Maintain volunteer records and assist with volunteer appreciation and recognition.
Help equip volunteers by communicating ministry vision, policies, procedures, and classroom expectations.
Be present and engaged during Sunday morning services (6:30 AM–12:30 PM).
Assist with Sunday morning setup and classroom preparation.
Support volunteer teams and provide assistance as classroom needs arise.
Troubleshoot scheduling, staffing, and operational needs throughout the morning.
Ensure classrooms are clean, organized, stocked, and ready for children and volunteers.
Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and Christ-centered environment for every child and family.
Ensure meaningful inclusion of individuals with special needs in weekend services, programs, and church-wide events
Assist with facilitating children's programming and childcare during Friday evening Celebrate Recovery programs.
Attend weekly Family Ministries meetings and all church staff meetings.
Assist with data entry, ministry reports, and other administrative projects.
Demonstrate strong organizational skills while managing multiple ministry priorities.
Build positive relationships with children, parents, and volunteers.
Communicate clearly and professionally with ministry families regarding schedules, events, and ministry updates.
Assist in creating an inviting environment where families feel welcomed, known, and cared for.
Maintain confidentiality while handling sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
Assist with planning, preparation, volunteer coordination, setup, and execution of: Family ministry events, Easter services and family events, Vacation Bible School (VBS), Back-to-School Family Event, Friday night Celebrate Recovery, Kids Ministry Christmas Family Event, Christmas Eve services, Additional church-wide events as assigned.
Supports and participates in the overall ministry and mission of Illuminate Community Church.
Attends required staff meetings and church events (including Easter and Christmas) as requested.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the effectiveness of the ministry and staff team.