NECESSITY OF A JOB DESCRIPTION
From the Ideas Unlimited CD by Betty B. Robertson
Have you ever said, "I didn’t know that was my job?" A comprehensive job description allows
you to realistically and consistently establish job content against measurable criteria. An effective job description is an integral ingredient of your staff relationship, establishing the what, how, and why of your position in a clear, concise format.
A job description should include:
1. Purpose
State the overall objective of the position clearly and concisely, including why the position exists.
2. Reporting relationship
Indicates the title of the position and to whom you report.
3. Specific responsibilities
State succinctly critical responsibilities, tasks and duties in order of priority. It’s helpful to begin each responsibility with an action verb, such as: approve, assist, conduct, coordinate, delegate, design, establish, evaluate, facilitate, guide, handle, implement, improve, instruct, maintain, manage, operate, plan, prepare, present, recruit, schedule, strengthen, teach, train, troubleshoot.
Sample Job Descriptions
Sample # 1
The children’s ministry director is responsible to oversee the entire children’s ministry to ensure a smoothly operating, safe and effective program. The director will recruit and train leaders who will touch children’s lives with God’s love, teach them God’s Word and provide fellowship with God’s people – laying a foundation that will keep children interested in the things of God and involved in church. Accountable to the pastor. Ministry target: children (ages 5 to 11). A passion for influencing and affecting children’s lives with the gospel of Christ.
Responsibilities / Duties:
1. Participate in training opportunities as offered.
2. Oversee and coordinate all aspects of the children’s ministry.
3. Organize training and planning sessions for children’s leaders and/or workers.
4. Screen children’s workers and leaders before placing them in ministry.
a.) Have everyone complete an application and sign a release form for a police background check.
This is a safety precaution for the children's sake. Plus, many insurance companies now require
such procedures in order to insure the church against liability relating to misconduct.
b.) Proceed with background check and file results in a confidential folder to be kept in a locked file cabinet in the church office.
c.) Approve or disapprove workers and leaders for service in the children's ministry.
5. Investigate any complaints regarding children’s ministry workers. Discuss any
complaints/problems with workers when warranted. Document and report serious matters to
pastor and proper authorities.
6. Approve all children’s ministries programs, curricula, activities and disbursement of funds for supplies and projects, keeping within budgeted amount.
7. Work with children’s church leader to plan weekly programs and participate as needed. Lead
devotional time or special part in weekly service, either on a regular basis or as an occasional
special guest.
8. Be available to counsel and pray with children regarding spiritual matters.
9. Pray for the children and children’s ministry workers.
Sample # 2: Children's Ministry Director
1. Direct the ministries of children from new-born through 6th grade, their families, and children's ministries volunteer staff.
2. Will be under the direct daily supervision of the senior pastor.
3. Expected to contribute to the team spirit of the staff and ministry team through fellowship,
encouragement, cooperation, prayer support and other appropriate ways.
4. Nurture, disciple, facilitate, and support the children's healthy growth and Christ Commitment.
Sample # 3: Children's Pastor
The Children's Minister provides leadership, organization and administration to the children's
ministries. This includes giving oversight to the volunteer staff for the Wednesday night AWANA
ministry; to K-6 Sunday School department heads and volunteers; and to the nursery volunteers.
