Job Description

The Associate Pastor is responsible to Lead and integrate guest experience, adult discipleship, and outreach to foster spiritual growth, welcome newcomers, and build a strong volunteer culture, reporting to the Lead Pastor on the Congregation team. A full-time position, the schedule generally includes weekend services, meetings at our office in Irvine, and additional time during the week for a total of 40-50 hours depending on licensed minister status. This position is exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position is eligible for ministerial licensing so long as the candidate meets the qualifications as set by Mariners.

Responsibilities

Guest Experience Oversight

• Oversee volunteer onboarding, scheduling, and care for Guest Services and Next Step teams
• Ensure smooth weekend operations: set-up/tear-down, parking, check-in, seating, and guest follow-up
• Liaise with Landlord, Facilities/Maintenance teams to ensure building readiness (AV, lighting, HVAC, cleanliness)
• Coordinate vendors and facilities staff for large-scale events, seasonal décor, and emergency procedures

Discipleship & Outreach Leadership

• Plan and oversee Rooted & Life Groups, ensuring consistent growth and engagement
• Serve as liaison with the Mariners Outreach team, connecting the church body with local service opportunities
• Foster a culture of group serving in alignment with Mariners Outreach strategy

Volunteer Development

• Recruit, develop, and care for volunteers across discipleship, guest services, and outreach—building up “leaders of leaders”
• Manage systems, the volunteer roadmap, and best practices to encourage volunteer health and retention

Collaboration & Feedback

• Oversee the Ministry Coordinator to support all ministry efforts
• Gather and analyze guest and volunteer feedback; identify trends and implement improvements
• Partner with worship, communications, and safety
• Model and promote a culture of excellence, teamwork, and Christ-like service

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of leadership experience in discipleship ministry, volunteer management, or guest services
• Deep biblical knowledge and a commitment to gospel-centered, Christ-like leadership
• Exceptional project-management, organizational, and communication skills
• Proven volunteer-recruitment and training experience
• Proficiency with Rock (or similar church-database/CRM)
• Data-oriented mindset: able to translate feedback into strategic action
• Servant-hearted, relational, and collaborative, with an ability to cast vision and inspire others

Physical Demands

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

Additional Information

All Mariners 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, leadership commitment, and position papers.
• Work during Christmas Eve and Easter services.
• Participate then facilitate Rooted once per ministry year.
• 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