Children's Ministry Director - Hillside Community Church, Vermillion, SD
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.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive children's ministry program that nurtures spiritual growth and complements Hillside's core values.
Oversee nursery care and early childhood ministry, choose educational materials, plan events and trips, facilitate intergenerational relationships, create age-appropriate service opportunities for children, and coordinate Sunday and midweek gatherings.
Partner with parents by providing regular communication, resources, and encouragement to help them disciple their children at home.
Recruit, train, appreciate, and supervise a team of volunteers committed to supporting children's ministry activities.
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.
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.
Manage the children's ministry budget, ensuring responsible stewardship of funds while providing high-quality resources and materials.
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.