Church Administrator

Overview:

St. Matthew Lutheran Church and Early Childhood Center, a Christ-centered congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois, is seeking a faithful and dedicated Church Administrator to support and enhance our mission through effective spiritual leadership, organizational management, and strong community engagement. This position serves as a key leader in coordinating the daily operations of the church and working closely with pastors, staff, boards, and lay leaders.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Spiritual Leadership:

●    Support the spiritual mission of the church by working closely with pastoral staff and congregational leadership.

●    Foster a Christ-centered, mission-driven culture throughout all administrative functions.

●    Represent the values and theology of the LCMS in all internal and external communications.

2. Administration of Board Affairs:

●    Facilitate coordination and communication between the pastor(s), staff, Church Council, and various boards and committees.

●    Ensure compliance with the church constitution and bylaws in administrative practices.

3. Office Administration:

●    Ensure proper documentation, record-keeping, and data management for members, contributions, and events.

●    Oversee purchasing, billing, payroll submissions, and financial documentation for church and school operations, ensuring timely approvals and accurate records.

●    Maintain secure employee files, conducts background checks, ensures regulatory compliance, and manages inventory and essential records.

4. Facilities Management:

●    Supervise the maintenance and use of church and school buildings and grounds in coordination with the Board of Trustees.

●    Coordinate with custodial staff, volunteers, and contractors for upkeep, repairs, and safety protocols.

●    Oversee facility-use policies, rental rates, security, and scheduling for church events and outside groups.

5. Supervision of Staff:

●    Serve as the direct supervisor for cemetery sexton, custodians and the media coordinator.

●    Foster a collaborative and accountable work environment among all team members.

●    Support staff in alignment with the church’s mission and goals.

6. Human Resources Administration:

●    Maintain church and school employee records, facilitate hiring and onboarding processes, and ensure compliance with employment laws.

●    Oversee payroll and benefits coordination in partnership with the church treasurer or financial officer.

●    Develop and implement HR policies and procedures consistent with LCMS principles and legal standards.

7. Community Relations:

●    Serve as a liaison between the church and local community institutions, including law enforcement, fire department, schools, elected officials, and civic groups.

●    Represent the church at local events and foster strong, positive relationships that support the congregation’s outreach efforts.

●    Promote the church’s visibility and engagement within the broader community.

Qualifications:

●    A committed Christian, active in faith, and in agreement with the doctrine and practice of the LCMS.

●    Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field preferred; theological training a plus.

●    Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in church or nonprofit administration.

●    Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

●    Proficient in office software (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) and church management systems.

●    Experience with Scouting programs is a plus.