Harvest Community Church Hoffman Estates, IL Posted: June 26, 2025
Job Information:
The Youth Pastor (YP) is responsible for the spiritual leadership, development, and overall management of the Vine Youth Group. This role involves shepherding youth, supporting volunteer leaders, organizing weekly services and special events, and maintaining effective communication with parents, students, and church leadership. The Youth Pastor fosters a Christ-centered, safe, and inclusive environment that cultivates spiritual growth and discipleship among students (middle school to high school).
Key Responsibilities
1. Weekly Youth Group (Vine) Ministry
Coordinate and lead Sunday services, including preaching or arranging guest speakers and logistics.
Oversee Sunday lunches: coordinate parent volunteers, facilitate table discussions, and manage cleanup.
Plan and execute Friday large group gatherings: message preparation, games/activities, small group coordination.
Organize weekly and seasonal small groups, such as discipleship and Alpha programs.
Facilitate Youth Group Leader (YGL) meetings to connect, cast vision, train, and plan ministry activities.
2. Special Events
Organize and lead youth retreats (summer and winter).
Plan and coordinate short-term mission trips.
Develop and execute youth-focused events (e.g., lock-ins, tournaments, outings).
Lead youth baptism services.
Coordinate Vine Bible School, including the annually leading SEEDS (Sunday School) with youth group volunteers each October.
3. Shepherding & Leadership Development
Recruit, train, and support Youth Group Leaders (YGLs) and student leaders.
Provide pastoral care and counseling to students and volunteer leaders.
Act as a mediator in conflict resolution involving youth or leaders.
Serve as a resource for parents seeking guidance and support with their students.
Promote mental health awareness and support, including referrals and training.
Maintain a culture of safety, inclusion, and accountability across all youth ministries.
4. Administration & Communication
Attend weekly staff meetings and participate in planning sessions.
Develop and manage the annual Vine Youth Group budget.
Meet monthly with the Lead Pastor for mentorship, feedback, and planning.
Maintain regular communication with students, parents, and the wider congregation.
Promote Vine activities within the church community to foster engagement.
Coordinate with other ministries (e.g., Seeds Ministry) for collaboration and shared support.
Ensure all YGLs and student volunteers complete mandated reporter and Protection Policy training.
Host quarterly parent meetings to update, equip, and partner with families.
Meet monthly with the PTA core team for ongoing collaboration and support.
Qualifications
A committed follower of Jesus Christ with a passion for youth ministry.
Prior experience in youth ministry leadership preferred.
Strong teaching, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to recruit, lead, and mentor volunteers and student leaders.
Familiarity with mental health and youth development resources.
Skilled in event planning, budgeting, and administrative oversight.
Ability to work collaboratively with church staff and volunteers.
Work Environment
Requires weekend and evening availability.
Involves physical activities such as setup/cleanup for events and light lifting.
Will require travel for retreats, mission trips, and special events.
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