Hiring a youth pastor is a significant (and sometimes scary!) process for any church. They'll be in charge of raising the net generation of believers at your church!

But the first step is simple: Create an awesome Youth Pastor Job Description.

This complete guide will walk you through crafting a job description that attracts the best candidates and aligns with your church's mission and vision. We also give you a downloadable version of this template so you can get started!

The Best Youth Pastor Job Description Template

Below is a youth pastor job description you can use as a template:

Intro

Welcome to [Church Name]! We are seeking a passionate and visionary pastor to lead our youth group in [Location]. If you are dedicated to discipling kids, creating a fun environment for them to grow, and embody our values of [list 3-5 key values], we invite you to consider joining our church.

Qualifications

Below are the qualifications we are looking for our new youth pastor to meet:

• A degree in Theology, Biblical Studies, Children's Education, or a related field from an accredited institution
• Ordination or licensing as a pastor under [Denomination] standards (if necessary)
• Proven experience in youth ministry and spiritual leadership
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in organizational and administrative tasks

Responsibilities

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the responsibilities and duties the youth pastor of [Church Name] must fill:

• Deliver engaging, Spirit-filled lessons that align with our doctrinal beliefs found on our website [link to your Statement of Beliefs here]
• Provide care and counseling to kids in times of need
• Lead and coordinate youth services
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of church ministries
• Plan youth fundraisers and events

Application Process

To apply for the position of Youth Pastor at [Church Name], please submit your resume, a cover letter, and any additional relevant documents to [email address]. The deadline for applications is [date]. Candidates will be contacted for an initial interview, followed by a more in-depth assessment.

Closing Statement

At [Church Name], we believe that finding the right youth leader is a collaborative effort between the church leadership and the candidate. We look forward to welcoming a new youth pastor who shares our vision and is excited to lead our children.

If you feel called to be a part of our community, we invite you to apply and join us in fulfilling our mission together.

Other Questions Your Pastor Job Description Must Answer

The above template will save you so much time as you prepare to hire a new head pastor.

But if you want to guarantee that your church finds the right candidate for the pastor position, your job posting needs to answer a few more questions:

What is the Role of a Youth Pastor?

Your job description needs to cover your church's vision for the role of the person who will become your youth pastor.

Articulating this vision will help new candidates know what they're taking on with this role at your church and it also helps weed out any applicants who don't share your ideals.

What Duties and Responsibilities Will the Youth Pastor Fill?

The template above includes a list of responsibilities. But your church has specific needs that won't be covered by a one-size-fits-all template.

Take some time to list out all the duties a youth pastor needs to fill at your church and include a condensed version of that list in your job posting.

Essential Knowledge and Skills for the Youth Pastor?

What does a potential youth pastor need to know about your church to make them a good fit? Is there anything specific about your youth group, facilities, or community that a minister needs to know? Share that information in your job listing.

Also, what skills do you need a new youth pastor to have beyond preaching, teaching, and leading games? Do you expect them to bring more young people into the church, counsel kids through hard times, etc? List any special skills you expect them to have.

Special Requirements for the Youth Pastor?

In addition to the duties, responsibilities, knowledge, and skills you need a youth pastor to know about, share any additional requirements that your church expects.

What Minimum Training and Experience?

Do you want a seasoned leader to step into your youth group, or do you prefer a fresh perspective? Do you want someone with a seminary degree or do you prefer experience over degrees?

Your youth pastor's job description will need to address these questions.

Youth Pastor Salary Expectations

Some candidates will expect a salary that is outside of your church's budget. Adding a salary to your job posting will save everyone time and headaches.

If a specific salary amount can't be shared publically, consider posting a salary range that a candidate can expect.

How to Create a Youth Pastor Job Description

Below are the 5 easy steps to create the best job description when looking for a new youth pastor:

1. Start with a Clear Introduction - Begin your job description with a concise and inviting introduction. Clearly state the purpose of the role, the values of your church, and the impact the new youth pastor will have on the community. This section should capture the essence of your church and spark interest in potential candidates.
2. Outline Key Responsibilities - Provide a detailed list of the youth pastor's primary responsibilities. Cover various aspects of the role, such as preaching, counseling, and overseeing day-to-day operations. Be specific about expectations.
3. Highlight Qualifications and Skills - Clearly outline the qualifications and skills required for the position. Include both educational and experiential requirements, as well as any specific skills or attributes.
4. Emphasize Cultural Fit - Express your youth group's unique culture and values, and encourage candidates to consider whether they align with these principles. This will help attract candidates who not only have the necessary qualifications but also resonate with the vision and mission of your church.
5. Provide Information on the Application Process - Clearly outline the steps interested candidates should take to apply. Include details about submitting resumes, cover letters, other documentation, deadlines, etc.

FAQs About the Role of Youth Pastor

What makes a good youth pastor?

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says...

"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

A great youth pastor impresses the truths and commandments of God's Word onto the hearts of the children in your care so that they have a firm foundation.

What does the Bible say about youth pastors' responsibilities?

In 1 Corinthians 11:1 Paul says...

"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."

That's the goal and responsibility of every youth pastor. Follow Christ and encourage the kids to do the same.

What attracts youth to church?

There's no single answer to how to grow a youth group.

However, a youth pastor who is passionate, sincere, and really values the kids in the program will go a long way to bring other kids to your church.

Related Articles

How to Craft A Pastor Job Description

Creating An Executive Pastor Job Description: A Guide

Building the Ideal Senior Pastor Job Description

How to Write the Best Associate Pastor Job Description

How to Find the Right Person for a Youth Pastor

The more thought and effort you invest in creating a compelling job description, the more likely you are to attract candidates who are not only qualified but also genuinely passionate about contributing to the growth and well-being of your youth group.

Matt Church Engagement