The Director of Student Ministries will lead Highland’s ministry to students in grades 6–12, helping them develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a lasting connection to the church. This full-time leader will invest in a small, dedicated group of students while intentionally reconnecting with those who have struggled to find their place. The opportunity calls for someone who can build trust, teach Scripture clearly, and establish consistent rhythms of discipleship, fellowship, and service. Reporting to Senior Pastor Rev. Chip Stapleton, the director will partner with the Youth Committee and serve under the oversight of the Session. Responsibilities include teaching, mentoring students, developing volunteers, communicating with parents, and planning gatherings, retreats, and service opportunities. Success requires a self-motivated leader who recognizes needs, develops thoughtful plans, and follows through while keeping others informed.

About This Organization

Highland Presbyterian Church is a welcoming congregation in Fayetteville, North Carolina’s historic Haymount neighborhood. Known as “the church on the hill,” Highland combines a love for its Presbyterian heritage with a commitment to helping people meet Jesus, build meaningful relationships, and serve their neighbors. Its mission, Sharing God’s Love, shapes a church community where people across generations can find a faith home.

Approximately 200 people gather each weekend for contemporary and traditional worship at Highland’s single campus. Midweek meals, music, children’s ministry, and community gatherings create opportunities for the congregation to share life together. A faithful older membership and growing participation in contemporary worship provide a foundation for strengthening connections between generations.

Highland’s commitment to service extends well beyond Sunday mornings. Its longstanding Food Pantry serves approximately 250–400 families each week, while its partnership with Friendship House Fayetteville supports community among young adults with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities. These ministries offer students meaningful opportunities to practice their faith through service and relationships.

Location

Fayetteville, North Carolina, combines the character of an established Southern community with the diversity and movement of a military city. Service members, veterans, and families from many backgrounds contribute to the community’s life and identity. For someone who enjoys building relationships, the city offers opportunities to welcome newcomers and support families through meaningful transitions.

Life in the area includes outdoor recreation along the Cape Fear River, visits to the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, and time in historic downtown Fayetteville. Community festivals, local businesses, and neighborhood gatherings provide ways to connect beyond the church campus. The Partner Questionnaire describes a community where neighbors regularly support military families navigating deployments and relocation.

Key Responsibilities

• Build relationships with students and families: Know students personally, maintain consistent contact, and intentionally pursue those who have struggled to connect.
• Lead biblical teaching and discipleship: Select or develop teaching for weekly gatherings and Sunday School that connects Scripture to adolescent life and encourages lasting faith in Jesus Christ.
• Establish a dependable ministry calendar: Plan and execute weekly gatherings, service opportunities, retreats, and meaningful traditions with timely preparation and follow-through.
• Recruit and develop volunteers: Partner with the Youth Committee to identify, equip, and encourage adults who will invest consistently in students.
• Partner with parents: Maintain clear communication about ministry plans and help families support their students’ spiritual growth.
• Guide important transitions: Welcome rising sixth graders, lead the Confirmation process, and celebrate graduating seniors.
• Connect students with the congregation: Create opportunities for students to participate in worship, serve their neighbors, and build relationships across generations.
• Manage ministry resources: Steward the annual youth ministry budget of approximately $24,000 and coordinate the practical details of ministry activities.
• Lead with initiative and accountability: Set priorities, communicate progress, follow church policies and student protection practices, and seek pastoral guidance when needed.

Key Qualifications

• A vibrant, growing relationship with Jesus Christ and a life marked by integrity, humility, and care for others.
• At least two years of youth ministry leadership or equivalent experience.
• A bachelor’s degree in theology, youth ministry, or a related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with adolescents and help them grow through biblical teaching and personal discipleship.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, including dependable planning and follow-through.
• The ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage responsibilities within a staff culture built on trust.
• The ability to recruit, equip, and encourage volunteers while partnering effectively with parents.
• Willingness to serve within Highland’s PCUSA and Reformed context and collaborate with pastors, the Youth Committee, and the Session.
• Sound judgment, appropriate boundaries, and a commitment to student safety and church policies.