Director of Youth Ministries | First Presbyterian Church | Bakersfield, California Mission First is partnering with First Presbyterian Church in Bakersfield, California, to find its next full-time Director of Youth Ministries. Please do not contact First Presbyterian Church directly. All questions, communication, and applications must go through Mission First. Thank you! Are you a relational youth ministry leader who loves Jesus, enjoys connecting with teenagers, and has a passion for reaching students beyond the church walls? Do you thrive on building relationships, developing leaders, and finding creative ways to share the hope of Christ? This may be the opportunity for you. First Presbyterian Church is a historic, Christ-centered congregation in Bakersfield, California, affiliated with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC). Founded in 1889, the church serves approximately 400 people through its weekly worship services and is entering an exciting season of renewed vision, outreach, and community engagement. The next Director of Youth Ministries will build on an established ministry of approximately 55 middle and high school students while helping shift the focus from programs and events toward meaningful relationships and discipleship. This leader will have the freedom and support to develop creative approaches to reaching students throughout the community. The Director of Youth Ministries will: Build authentic relationships with students and help them grow in their faith Teach God's Word with clarity, relevance, and practical application Connect with students beyond the church through schools, athletics, and community activities Develop outreach opportunities to engage students who are not connected to a church Recruit, equip, and encourage adult volunteers and mentors Partner with parents to support students' spiritual growth Strengthen existing gatherings while developing a more relational approach to ministry Collaborate with pastors, staff, and church leaders to advance the church's mission The right person will be a spiritually mature, self-motivated, and relational leader who genuinely loves students and takes initiative to reach them. They will be creative, entrepreneurial, humble, and collaborative, with a passion for evangelism and discipleship. A bachelor's degree or equivalent preparation and at least three years of youth ministry experience are preferred qualifications. Previous Presbyterian ministry experience is not required. Why Bakersfield? Located in California's Central Valley, Bakersfield offers big-city amenities, a welcoming community, and a more affordable lifestyle than many coastal California cities. With access to the Sierra Nevada mountains, Kern River, and nearby outdoor recreation, the area offers plenty to explore. Bakersfield is a great place to build relationships, put down roots, and make a lasting impact in the lives of young people and families. This is a full-time, salaried position with an anticipated salary range of $60,000–$65,000. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation, relocation assistance, and professional development support. If you are ready to invest in students, build meaningful relationships, reach beyond the church walls, and help shape the next season of youth ministry at First Presbyterian Church, we invite you to learn more and take the next step. Click here to LEARN MORE & APPLY Please do not contact First Presbyterian Church directly. All questions, communication, and applications must go through Mission First. Thank you!