Director of Youth Ministries | Jackson First UMC

Jackson First United Methodist Church – Jackson, TN

Jackson, Tennessee

Director of Youth Ministries
First United Methodist Church, Jackson, Tennessee

Position Summary

The Director of Youth Ministries provides leadership, vision, and spiritual guidance for the youth ministry (grades 6–12) at First United Methodist Church in Jackson, TN. This position is responsible for nurturing students in their relationship with Jesus Christ through discipleship, fellowship, worship, and service, while equipping them to live out their faith in their homes, schools, and community.

The position is 32–40 hours per week with flexible scheduling. Weekly work may include a combination of office hours, remote planning, community engagement, and direct student programming. The Director will maintain a consistent presence in the lives of students through church gatherings and attendance at youth events such as games, concerts, and performances.

Responsibilities

Spiritual Leadership & Teaching

• Lead engaging Bible studies, devotionals, and worship gatherings that foster spiritual growth and encourage students to deepen their relationship with Christ.
• Create an environment where youth learn to pray, worship, and live out their faith daily.
• Provide pastoral care, encouragement, and mentoring to students and families.

Programming & Events

• Plan and lead a weekly Sunday night youth gathering (excluding holiday weekends) focused on worship, fellowship, and discipleship.
• Develop age-specific programming for middle school and high school students, ensuring both joint and separate opportunities for spiritual growth and fellowship.
• Organize at least one quarterly capstone event such as a retreat, mission trip, or community outing.
• Lead summer programming as the most active season, including local missions, retreats, camps, or participation in Annual Conference youth events.
• Coordinate the church’s confirmation program, overseeing the Confirmation Leader Team while offering mentorship and education for students exploring their faith and membership in the church.

Relationship Building & Community Engagement

• Build authentic, Christ-centered relationships with youth and families through intentional presence and care.
• Attend student activities (sports, concerts, plays, etc.) as a visible sign of the church’s support and encouragement.
• Foster connections between the youth and the larger church body, encouraging intergenerational relationships and service opportunities.

Leadership Development & Volunteer Support

• Recruit, train, and support adult volunteers to serve as small group leaders, chaperones, and mentors.
• Equip and empower youth leaders to take active roles in ministry planning and leadership.
• Ensure all volunteers are trained and compliant with Safe Sanctuary and church safety policies.

Administration & Communication

• While reporting to the Director of Family Ministries, collaborate with church staff to align youth ministry with the mission and vision of First United Methodist Church.
• Manage youth ministry communications with students, families, and the congregation through email, social media, and church publications.
• Maintain accurate records, calendars, and budgets for youth ministry activities.

Work Hours & Expectations

• Position averages 32–40 hours per week, with flexibility between office, remote, and community-based work.
• Requires regular Sunday and evening hours, with occasional weekend travel for retreats or missions.
• Weekly rhythm should include a mix of planning, relationship-building, and direct engagement with youth.
• Summer months are considered the busiest ministry season, requiring additional time and coordination.

Qualifications

• A personal and growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Passion for youth ministry and the spiritual development of young people.
• Experience in ministry leadership, teaching, or mentoring students.
• Strong communication, organization, and relationship-building skills.
• Understanding of and alignment with the beliefs and mission of the United Methodist Church.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a ministry team and adapt to a flexible schedule.

Compensation

Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.

To Apply:
Interested candidates may submit a cover letter and resume to Travis Penney at tpenney@jacksonfumc.org. Please respond by January 16, 2026.