Job opening: Lead teacher for Sunday children’s religious education

Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church, 3737 Liberty Road S, Salem, OR 97302

Time commitment:
•    Being at the church from 9:15 a.m. to approximately 11:30 a.m. on Sundays.
•    Leading a children’s faith-based program during our worship service, which typically runs from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
•    Preparation and follow-up.

Ages of children served: Nursery through grade five.

Pay: $175 per week. 

Benefits: Small stipend for continuing education. Eligible for 3% match on SIMPLE IRA contributions. Unpaid time off will be available. If desired, employee can purchase certain benefits through the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Board of Pensions.

Supervisor: Pastor, working in collaboration with the children’s committee.

How to apply: Please submit your resume as soon as possible to: careers@salemwestpres.org

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We hope this person could begin work by Dec. 1, 2026.

You will be expected to provide references and pass a background check prior to employment.

About us: We are a mid-size Presbyterian (PCUSA) congregation in South Salem. We are rooted in Reformed theology and committed to social justice, critical thinking, and fostering a vibrant faith community where all are welcome and valued. We seek to engage the youngest members of our church family and nurture their spiritual growth.

The opportunity: This person will teach our children up through fifth grade. You will be assisted by one or two volunteers each Sunday. With a small number of children, this role provides the opportunity to build relationships and create a foundational Christian education program that is engaging, age-appropriate, and reflective of our church's progressive values. The ideal candidate will have a heart for children, a passion for innovative ministry, and an ability to work collaboratively with our pastor, families, volunteers, and others.

Key responsibilities:
•    In coordination with our Pastor, create lessons that are biblically sound, reflect our congregation’s progressive values, and emphasize God's love, inclusivity, justice, and wonder.
•    Plan and lead engaging Sunday morning experiences for children, which could include art, discussion, music, play, storytelling, and worship.
•    Ensure a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment for all children.
•    Work collaboratively with volunteers, providing guidance and support. 
•    Maintain positive relationships with children and their families, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
•    Communicate updates, summaries and/or child-friendly information thru the weekly church newsletter.  
•    Work collaboratively with the Pastor and other church leaders to integrate children's ministry into the broader life of the church.
•    Manage a modest budget for children's ministry resources and activities.
•    Ensure compliance with the church's child safety policies and procedures.
•    Attend relevant church meetings as needed.

Desired qualifications:
•    A personal Christian faith and a strong resonance with progressive Christian theology and the values of the Presbyterian Church (USA), including a commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
•    Experience working with children in an educational or ministry setting.
•    Understanding of child development and age-appropriate teaching methods.
•    Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
•    Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
•    Creativity, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
•    Pass a background check and, after hiring, participate in our child protection and safety training.
•    A  bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., education, theology, child development) is preferred but not required.

Westminster Presbyterian Church is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and volunteers.