Kids Pastor (Future Congregation) at Mariners Church in Tustin, CA

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 Kids Pastor will lead and implement a dynamic Kids Ministry for children and families at one of our Mariners congregations. This person will work closely with the Mariners Kids (Irvine) ministry team to ensure the vision and strategy for Mariners Kids is effectively executed, including the implementation of curriculum, resources, and events. The ideal candidate will be passionate about creating a relationally engaging and safe environment for children to grow in their faith, while also developing volunteers and fostering strong partnerships with families.

This position reports to the Lead Congregation Pastor. A full-time position, the schedule generally includes weekend services, meetings at our office in Irvine, and additional time during the week for a total of 40-50 hours depending on licensed minister status. This position is exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).  This position is eligible for ministerial licensing so long as the candidate meets the qualifications as set by Mariners.

Ministry Strategy & Execution

• Dynamic Kids Ministry: Lead the implementation of a vibrant, engaging Kids Ministry that serves kids and families, creating an environment where children can grow spiritually and emotionally.
• Curriculum & Resources: Partner with the Mariners Kids team to unpack and implement the Mariners Kids strategy, ensuring that curriculum and resources are effective, age-appropriate, and aligned with the mission.

Volunteer & Leadership Development

• Volunteer Pipeline Development: Cultivate a strong volunteer team by developing and maintaining a pipeline for volunteer growth, providing leadership opportunities for preteens, junior high, and high school students.
• Ministry Coaches: Empower and intentionally develop volunteer ministry coaches who are responsible for leading and caring for teams of volunteers, ensuring they feel supported and equipped.

Small Group Strategy & Relationships

• Lead Small Strategy: Champion the "Lead Small" philosophy by ensuring that every child is placed in a consistent small group with a dedicated leader. Create opportunities for kids to build meaningful relationships in their group.
• Relational Engagement: Foster a relationally engaging environment, where both kids and volunteers feel known and valued.

Parent & Family Partnerships

• Advocate for Families: Partner with parents to ensure they are resourced, encouraged, and equipped for their role as the primary spiritual leaders in their children’s lives.
• Faith Milestones: Champion key faith milestones for children and families, including leading experiences such as "I Believe" classes, baptisms, and child dedications. Provide intentional leadership in guiding families through these significant moments in their children’s faith journey.

Event Planning & Collaboration

• Special Events: Attend and participate in Mariners Kids special events, training meetings, and other ministry-wide events like VBS and Winter Camp. Ensure that kids' ministry events are engaging, well-executed, and aligned with the church’s values.
• Ministry-Wide Collaboration: Collaborate with the Mariners Kids staff across the Mariners organization to share resources, ideas, and best practices. Work together to execute ministry-wide events.

Compliance & Safety

• Compliance: Maintain compliance with all applicable laws, church policies, and best practices related to children’s ministry, including child safety, volunteer background checks, and risk management. Ensure all activities and operations align with Mariners Church’s values and legal requirements.
• Safety & Security: Uphold the highest standards for safety and security within the ministry, ensuring that all volunteers and leaders are thoroughly trained on safety protocols, background checks, and child protection policies.

• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, develop, and empower volunteers.
• A passion for children’s ministry and helping kids grow in their faith.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience in kids’ ministry or a similar leadership role, particularly in a church setting.
• Familiarity with the Lead Small philosophy and best practices in relational ministry.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teams across the church and across the Mariners organization.
• A commitment to safety and excellence in ministry operations.
• Ability to manage conflict and navigate challenging situations with grace and maturity.
• Relational and approachable with a heart for kids and families.
• A strong team player who collaborates well with others and values community.
• A servant-hearted leader who is passionate about developing others and fostering leadership in others.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
• A proactive self-starter who takes initiative and is solution-focused.

Physical Demands

• Work that includes moving objects up to 50 pounds.

All Mariners Staff:

• 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