High School Director bei Mariners Church

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.

Work in collaboration with the High School Pastor to help students follow Jesus and fearlessly change the world. Join in owning the key aspects of the Transformational Loop for this ministry area. The High School Director will provide leadership to all volunteers and interns. The Director will be relied on for decision-making, alignment with Mariners vision and strategy, volunteer and staff development, and ministry execution. The Director will also lend personal experience and counsel where needed in Youth ministry. This position serves under the Irvine High School Pastor on the Youth Team. A full time position, the schedule generally includes weekend services and time spent in the office during the week. The position is exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Responsibilities

The High School Director plays a key role in leading students to know and follow Jesus, providing them with a community where they are known, loved, and equipped to live out their faith. This position reports to the High School Pastor on the Youth team. A full-time, exempt position, the schedule generally includes weekend services, gatherings at our Irvine campus, and additional time during the week.

The Director will collaborate closely with the High School Pastor to carry out the ministry plan, focusing on leadership of volunteers and coaches, discipleship through Life Groups, and excellence in camps, retreats, and events. The High School Director will also provide shepherding for students, parents, and leaders, creating a vibrant culture of faith, belonging, and mission.

Team Leadership & Operations

• Partner with the High School Pastor to implement ministry goals and strategies
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for volunteers and coaches
• Oversee designated areas of the ministry budget (volunteers, life groups, events)
• Manage ministry operations including the calendar, event planning, and alignment with strategic goals
• Contribute to decision-making and execution of ministry initiatives

Volunteer & Coach Leadership

• Lead recruiting efforts for Life Group, Weekend, and Coach volunteers, following the Mariners Church Volunteer Process
• Conduct volunteer applications, interviews, and reference checks
• Onboard leaders effectively into High School Life Groups and Weekends
• Train and equip leaders through ongoing development, weekly communications, and celebrations
• Recruit, train, and support coaches to lead and care for teams of volunteers
• Provide ongoing shepherding and encouragement for all leaders

Life Groups

• Champion High School Life Groups, ensuring they are central to discipleship and belonging
• Oversee the Life Group budget and ensure groups are resourced and equipped
• Support coaches and leaders to maintain high-quality and consistent group experiences
• Ensure Life Groups are engaged in serving opportunities

Camps, Retreats & Events

• Lead recruiting, onboarding, and training of leaders for camps and retreats
• Oversee check-in processes, logistics, and leader care at all trips
• Invite and equip coaches to support leaders at camps and retreats
• Oversee large-scale events (retreats, outreach events, special weekends) by ensuring clear communication, alignment with ministry goals, and leader care

Weekends & Care

• Serve as a shepherding presence at all High School services by teaching, hosting, and leading environments
• Build intentional relationships with students, parents, and leaders for discipleship and support
• Provide care, communication, and pastoral presence in moments of need

• Bachelor’s Degree in Ministry or related field
• 3+ years of experience in high school or youth ministry (church or camp setting)
• Demonstrated leadership in recruiting, training, and equipping volunteers
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• A deep love for Jesus and a commitment to walking alongside high school students in faith

Physical Demands 

• Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds.

All Mariners Church 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 and leadership commitment. 
• 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