Junior High Director

Mariners Church is a biblically-centered, non-denominational church located in Southern California focused on inspiring people to follow Jesus and fearlessly change the world. Mariners is listed as one of the top 20 largest churches in America by Outreach Magazine. We are a community of ordinary people from all walks of life courageously trusting God to do the extraordinary. Simply put, we trust God to do what we can’t—heal, transform, renew, forgive, provide and sustain. Through the redemption story of each believer, God is glorified, lives are changed and communities are impacted in a significant way. Come and be part of a new season of growth as Mariners Church responds to God’s call in launching new congregations.

The Junior High Director plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive and engaging environment for students, ensuring that each young person has a dedicated adult who knows them and a welcoming place to belong. This position reports to the Junior High Pastor on the Youth team. A full-time, exempt position, the schedule generally includes weekend services, meetings at our Irvine campus, and additional time during the week.

Responsibilities

Collaborating closely with the Junior High Pastor, the Director will take ownership of key aspects of the ministry plan and provide leadership to volunteers and interns. This position involves decision-making, staff development, and offering personal guidance within the Junior High and family ministry.

Team Leadership & Operations

• Partner with the Junior High Pastor to implement ministry goals and strategies
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for volunteers and coaches
• Oversee designated areas of the ministry budget (volunteers, life groups)
• Manage ministry operations including the calendar, delegation of event planning, and alignment with strategic goals
• Contribute to decision-making and execution of ministry initiatives

Volunteer Leadership

• Recruit and onboard coaches for both Life Groups and Weekends
• Train and support coaches to lead and care for their teams of volunteers
• Assign leaders to coaches and provide ongoing coaching and accountability
• Lead recruiting efforts for Life Group, Weekend, and Coach volunteers, following the Mariners Church Volunteer Process
• Conduct volunteer applications, interviews, and reference checks
• Onboard leaders effectively into Junior High Life Groups and Weekends
• Equip and encourage volunteers through trainings, weekly communications, and celebrations
• Provide ongoing care and shepherding for all leaders

Life Groups

• Champion Junior High Life Groups across weekends
• Oversee the Life Group budget and ensure groups are resourced and equipped
• Maintain quality and consistency of group experiences through leader support and coaching
• Ensure Life Groups are engaged in serving opportunities

Camps & Events

• Lead recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and training of camp leaders
• Oversee check-in processes, care, and leadership presence at camp
• Invite coaches to serve leaders during camps for increased support
• Oversee events by ensuring communication to leaders, alignment with ministry goals, and strong care for volunteers at all gatherings

Weekends & Care

• Serve as a shepherding presence at all Junior High services by hosting, speaking, and leading environments
• Care for students, parents, and leaders through intentional relationship, communication, and availability

• Bachelor’s Degree in Ministry or related field
• 3+ years of experience in youth ministry or a camp setting
• Demonstrated leadership experience in recruiting, training, and equipping volunteers
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• A deep love for Jesus and a commitment to connecting with students  

Physical Demands 

• Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds.

• Love Jesus and call themselves Christians.
• Embrace a high biblical standard of personal conduct and lifestyle.
• Agree to and adhere to the church's statement of faith, leadership commitment, and position papers.
• Work during Christmas Eve and Easter services.
• Participate then facilitate Rooted once per ministry year.
• Attend Mariners Church.

We believe the total combination of your pay, benefits, and opportunities aligned with your calling will ensure that you and your family are provided for. The following items are just a sample of the things we offer for full-time employment:

• Health insurance (medical, dental and vision)
• 403b Retirement Saving Plan
• Paid vacation
• Paid time off to serve
• Discounts at the Mariners Cafe and Bookstore
• Tuition discount for Mariners Church Preschool 
• Opportunity to attend ministry events and conferences
• Working alongside a community of supportive, like-minded believers