Pastor of Student Ministries
- Location: Central Church — Ewing, NJ
- Reports To: Lead Pastor
- Status: Full-time (Exempt)
About Central
Mission: To intentionally introduce people to Jesus Christ, both locally and globally, and to proactively help believers grow as fully-devoted followers.
Vision: We are a diverse community following Christ anywhere, bringing hope to the hurting. At Central, we intentionally cultivate a multiethnic, multigenerational community where people across ethnic backgrounds, ages, educational levels, and socioeconomic realities can grow spiritually and serve others. We believe this diversity is essential to our witness and our work in the community.
Role Summary
The Pastor of Student Ministries (Middle School–High School) leads a vibrant, gospel-centered ministry that disciples students, engages families, and raises leaders. In his role, he will serve as a spiritual shepherd to students. This role crafts a compelling educational experience and a clean, safe environment for students; equips volunteers and partners with parents; and builds a culture of fun, mission, and spiritual formation. The Pastor of Student Ministries also occasionally preaches in our Modern and Classic services and collaborates deeply with the staff to advance Central’s vision.
5 Key Responsibilities
1) Spiritual Leadership & Teaching
- Develop and deliver curriculum that forms students in:
- Apologetics (biblical worldview, cultural discernment, faith foundations)
- Gospel-centered messages (grace, identity in Christ, salvation, mission)
- Basics of discipleship (scripture, prayer, community, serving, evangelism)
- Regularly lead small groups and multiply student-led and adult-led groups.
- Provide pastoral care to students and families (mentoring, prayer, crisis response). • Occasionally preach in the Modern and Classic Sunday services.
2) Program & Environment Design
- Build consistent, compelling weekly gatherings (Tuesdays/Sundays) marked by: Biblical teaching, authentic worship, meaningful relationships.
- A clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students and guests
- Clear next steps for new students and first-time guests
- Implement safety protocols (check-in, volunteer standards, incident reporting).
3) Parents & Volunteer Engagement
- Develop strong working relationships with parents and guardians; provide regular communication, equipping workshops, and resources that help them disciple at home.
- Recruit, train, schedule, and shepherd volunteer leaders; cultivate a healthy, mission-driven team culture.
- Champion diversity and belonging—so students, parents, and volunteers from all backgrounds are seen, respected, and engaged.
4) Retreats & Mission
- Plan and execute retreats, camps, and local/short-term mission trips that are: Fun, safe, and engaging
- Spiritually formative and culturally sensitive
- Accessible for a diverse community
- Establish clear discipleship goals and follow-up pathways after each event/trip.
5) Teamwork & Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with the staff to complete the mission of the church.
- Contribute to all-church initiatives and cross-ministry alignment.
- Participate in staff meetings, prayer, planning, and care for the congregation.
Qualifications
- A vibrant, maturing relationship with Jesus Christ and alignment with Central’s statement of faith, vision, and mission.
- Ministerial training required, including ordination.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred (ministry, theology, education, or related field). • 2+ years of proven student ministry leadership (church or equivalent).
- Proven experience in Bible teaching, apologetics, discipleship, and pastoral care for adolescents.
- Experience in recruiting, training, and shepherding volunteers.
- Strong administrative skills: planning, budgeting, safety/compliance, and communication (email, social, SMS, and parent updates).
- Some experience preaching
Schedule & Availability
- Full-time role with an exempt flexible schedule that will require attendance at weekly staff meetings, Tuesday evenings, student programs, and Sunday morning ministry as required.
- Full participation in off-site programs, including retreats and mission trips. Candidates must be available for extended travel and consecutive overnight stays as required by the event schedule.
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation: Commensurate with experience and education.
- Benefits: Health, paid time off (sick days, vacation), ministry-related expenses, and professional development. (Additional details to be provided during the interview process.)
How to Apply
Please submit the following to j[email protected] with the subject line “Pastor of Student Ministries – Your Name”:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Optional: Sample teaching outline or sermon link
