Student Pastor

STUDENT PASTOR

Purpose

Passion to reach and disciple students to know Christ, cultivate a deep love for God and others, and equip them to live missionally.

Expectations

• Live an exemplary life modeling the call, character, and competencies of a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Be a servant leader to students, volunteers, families, and the church body.
• Be a person of vision, embracing a growth mindset, constantly looking for new ways to engage youth.
• Demonstrate a commitment to personal spiritual growth and leadership development through reading, conferences, and mentorship.
• Actively engage in the life of First Mt. Juliet by participating in worship, events, and service opportunities.
• Collaborate with staff members and ministry leaders in alignment with the church’s mission.

Gifts & Skill Set

Leadership & Communication

• Teaching
• Evangelism
• Leadership
• Verbal and written communication

Planning & Organization

• Administration
• Event Planning
• Scheduling
• Curriculum Planning

Team Development

• Volunteer Recruitment
• Training and Mentorship

Primary Responsibilities

Organizational

• Lead, coordinate, and evaluate all student ministry activities and programs.
• Research and recommend relevant curriculum and teaching tools.
• Develop systems for evaluating success based on attendance, engagement, and spiritual growth.
• Partner with church leaders to ensure ministry alignment with overall vision.
• Execute intentional annual programming: camps, retreats, mission trips, outreach, and spiritual formation events.
• Implement clear communication strategies across platforms (email, social media, parent updates).
• Coordinate student chapels for MJCA.
• Participate in staff outreach efforts including visitation and new member engagement.
• Maintain and evaluate ministry structure, policies, space, and equipment needs.
• Prepare and manage the student ministry budget.
• Perform bi-annual performance reviews in coordination with the Senior Pastor.
• Attend at least one ministry conference and one mission event annually.
• Oversee the small group curriculum scope and sequence.

Leaders

• Provide leadership and development to student ministry staff and volunteers.
• Implement a robust recruitment, training, and retention plan for volunteers.
• Ensure adherence to church safety policies and student protection protocols.
• Encourage and create community among leaders through team-building and appreciation efforts.
• Provide ongoing equipping through training events, resources, and mentorship.

Parents

• Develop supportive relationships with parents and caregivers.
• Equip parents to be primary disciple-makers through resources and training.
• Maintain open lines of communication with parents and seek regular feedback.
• Facilitate forums or groups to encourage and equip parents of teens.

Students

• Build Christ-centered relationships with students in grades 6–12.
• Maintain a visible presence at MJCA and other local schools.
• Provide pastoral care, guidance, and counseling to students and families.
• Create opportunities for students to identify and use their spiritual gifts.
• Lead a welcoming environment where all students feel known and loved.
• Collect feedback to continually improve ministry impact and relevance.

Outreach & Missions

• Encourage students to engage their schools and communities with the gospel.
• Develop a missions strategy that progresses students from exposure to leadership in missions.
• Lead students in local, national, and international mission opportunities.
• Plan and execute outreach events that engage new students and families.
• Partner with schools, local organizations, and outreach ministries in Mt. Juliet/Wilson County.

Reporting

• Report directly to the Senior Pastor.
• Provide weekly updates and periodical ministry reports as requested.
• Complete assigned tasks with regular updates and follow-up.

Requirements

• Must be a committed follower of Jesus Christ with a demonstrated life of integrity and spiritual maturity.
• Be an active member of First Baptist Church Mt. Juliet, faithfully attending, serving, and giving.
• Possess strong organizational and interpersonal skills; be able to multitask while maintaining a positive outlook.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion with sensitive information.
• Successfully complete background checks and all child safety training.
• Theological education and student ministry experience.
• Maintain consistent on-campus presence: Monday–Thursday (8 AM–4 PM), Wednesday evenings (5–8:00 PM), and Sundays (7 AM–12:30 PM).
• Participate in weekly staff meetings

Compensation 

• Full-Time | Exempt | Pastoral Staff
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Health and retirement benefits
• Paid time off
• Professional development allowance