Hillside Community Church
Position Overview
The full-time Children's Ministry Director provides leadership and oversight to all aspects of children's ministry (Nursery through 5th grade), cultivating an environment where kids grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and His Church.
The role entails fostering a welcoming, effective, engaging, and age-appropriate environment for children to learn and grow in their faith. The director will work to create and/or choose curriculum, manage volunteers, and collaborate with other church leadership to minister to the families of Hillside.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development
The director will oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive children's ministry program that nurtures spiritual growth and complements Hillside's core values. This includes oversight of nursery care and early childhood ministry, choosing educational materials, planning events and trips, facilitating intergenerational relationships, creating age-appropriate service opportunities for children, and coordinating Sunday and midweek gatherings. The director will also partner with parents by providing regular communication, resources, and encouragement to help them disciple their children at home.
Volunteer Management
Recruit, train, appreciate and supervise a team of volunteers committed to supporting children's ministry activities. The director will ensure that volunteers are adequately prepared to deliver lessons and lead activities safely and effectively.
Collaboration and Communication
Collaborate and maintain open and effective communication with church leadership, staff, and parents to ensure alignment with the overall church goals and the needs of the children and families served.
Event Planning and Execution
Plan, coordinate, and oversee special events, such as holiday programs, VBS, summer camps, and community outreach aimed at engaging children and families within the church and the community.
Resource Management
Manage the children's ministry budget, ensuring responsible stewardship of funds while providing high-quality resources and materials. The director will also ensure that all physical spaces are safe and inviting for children.
Safety and Security
Adhere to and champion Hillside’s child protection policies, including background checks, abuse-prevention training, and secure check-in/check-out procedures, while communicating and coordinating with the church’s security team to maintain a safe environment for all children and volunteers.
Qualifications
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in theology, education, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience in children's ministry leadership will be considered.
Experience
Proven experience in leading or working within a children's ministry or educational program. Experience in volunteer management is highly desirable.
Skills and Abilities
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Able and willing to communicate clearly and regularly with parents and volunteers through email, text, and/or ministry platforms.
Able and willing to recruit, equip, and inspire volunteers through effective leadership and appreciation.
Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment
Able to use ministry software programs (Planning Center, Pro-Presenter) or willing to learn.
Proficient in planning and organizing educational content
Compassionate and approachable with a passion for working with children and their families.
Commitment to maintaining a safe environment for children
Willing to complete a background check and required child safety training.
Faith and Character
Demonstrates a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ
Lives a life above reproach in accordance with biblical standards
Agrees with and supports Hillside’s statement of faith and mission
Become an active member of HCC and regularly participate in the life of the church.
Passionate about discipling children and equipping families
Displays humility, integrity, and a servant’s heart in leadership
Displays a teachable spirit and is able to receive guidance with humility.
Work Environment
The Children’s Ministry Director will work primarily in the church office and children’s ministry environments, with regular Sunday and midweek responsibilities as well as occasional events (e.g., VBS, family nights). Flexibility is essential.
Accountability
The Children's Ministry Director reports directly to the Pastor of Ministries and serves under the overall leadership and spiritual oversight of the Lead Pastor and Elder Board. Performance will be evaluated annually by the Pastor of Ministries as part of Hillside’s staff development and review process.