Director of Student Ministries

Director of Student Ministries – Job Description

Who we are

The Bridge is an independent Wesleyan congregation in north Odessa, Texas. We exist to invite people to pursue Jesus together to find hope, community, and purpose.

We are a vibrant, growing church. Our large children's ministry sends a steady stream of kids into middle and high school every year, and we need a leader ready to welcome them and grow with them.

The role

The Director of Student Ministries is a full-time pastoral role leading BridgeYouth, our ministry to students in grades 6–12 and their families. You will build a Bible-centered ministry where students meet Jesus, grow as disciples, find real community, and learn to serve others.

What you'll do

Make disciples

•     Build a Bible-centered discipleship pathway for BridgeYouth so students grow as disciples and families know our process.

•     Lead and grow weekly gatherings, creating fun, meaningful environments for middle and high school students.

•     Include spiritual formation at every event, and pray regularly with your teams for students and families.

•     Assist the pastor in leading Confirmation classes.

Welcome every student

•     Create a welcoming environment where new students feel they belong and are known.

•     Build relationships with students inside and outside The Bridge community.

Partner with families

•     Involve parents in their students' spiritual formation.

•     Follow up with students and families within the church.

Build and lead teams

•     Recruit, train, schedule, and inspire youth mentors and volunteers.

•     Build the teams needed to carry out student ministry.

•     Recruit, train, and empower volunteers for the Sunday morning Connections Table.

Reach the community

•     Plan and lead outreach events.

•     Lead camps, summer programs, fun events, and mission opportunities that help students grow and serve.

Steward the ministry

•     Oversee all programming and ministry for grades 6–12.

•     Maintain Safe Sanctuaries training, background checks, and other safeguards so every student is protected.

•     Manage the student ministry budget, organization, and volunteers.

•     Set annual goals aligned with our vision, then evaluate and adjust them through the year.

•     Be present and involved in ministry on Sunday mornings.

Keep growing

•     Maintain an authentic, growing walk with Jesus Christ.

•     Attend continuing education, conferences, and development events.

Who you are

Faith and calling

•     You have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, evident in your actions, attitude, and character.

•     You have a pastor's heart and a passion for the spiritual formation of students and families.

•     You embrace The Bridge's vision, values, statement of faith, and Wesleyan heritage.

•     You are a person of integrity who can be trusted with students and families.

Experience and skills

•     You have ministry training and experience working with youth. A proven track record of growing a student ministry is a strong plus.

•     Bachelor's degree preferred.

•     You recruit, develop, and lead volunteer teams well.

•     You are organized, a self-starter, and you see projects through to completion.

•     You bring enthusiasm, strong relational skills, and a good work ethic.

What drives you

•     You love students and families and want to help them connect and grow spiritually.

•     You want to see students serving others.

•     You enjoy working on a team with other staff.