Gainesville First UMC Student & College Ministry Associate

Gainesville First UMC Student & College Ministry Associate

3/5/2026

GAINESVILLE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Student & College Ministry Associate

Full-Time | Exempt |

Reports to:

Director of Student Ministry

Gainesville First UMC is looking for a relational, energetic leader to invest in students from middle school through college. This role spans three distinct but connected seasons of young adult life and is a great fit for someone early in their ministry journey who is eager to learn, grow, and go deep with the next generation alongside an experienced, collaborative team.

• Build authentic relationships with students through weekly programming, one-on-one time, and showing up at their games, plays, and school events
• Teach and coordinate Sunday School and Sunday night programming and recruit volunteers, select curriculum, and occasionally deliver messages
• Lead or assist with small groups, Bible studies, retreats, and mission trips
• Partner with families by keeping parents informed, building trust, and offering pastoral care when needed

• Develop and lead a ministry presence for college-age young adults, both those still connected to the church and those returning from or commuting to nearby campuses
• Create regular touchpoints through gatherings, studies, and informal community that meet college students where they are spiritually and relationally
• Serve as a bridge between the student ministry and the broader life of the church, helping college students find meaningful belonging and next steps
• Participate in or support existing campus ministry organizations where GFUMC students are involved

• Bachelor's degree required;
  Religious Studies emphasis preferred
• 2–3 years of experience in youth ministry, college ministry, camp, or a student-facing ministry context
• Grounded in Wesleyan theology;
  United Methodist polity a plus
• Strong communicator with genuine love for students across the middle school-to-college span
• Organized, self-directed, and comfortable with both relational and administrative work

• Mentorship from experienced ministry staff and real room to grow as a leader and teacher
• A collaborative team that takes both students and each other seriously
• Benefit package that includes paid time off, disability insurance, and options for medical, dental, 401k

Apply by emailing Rev. Sandy Skinner (Executive Pastor) at

Contact:
Rev. Sandy Skinner

Address: 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville 30506

Phone:

Email:

Website: