Associate Pastor

Mariners Church is a biblically-centered, non-denominational church located in Southern California focused on inspiring people to follow Jesus and fearlessly change the world. Mariners is listed as one of the top 20 largest churches in America by Outreach Magazine. We are a community of ordinary people from all walks of life courageously trusting God to do the extraordinary. Simply put, we trust God to do what we can’t—heal, transform, renew, forgive, provide and sustain. Through the redemption story of each believer, God is glorified, lives are changed and communities are impacted in a significant way. Come and be part of a new season of growth as Mariners Church responds to God’s call in launching new congregations.

In partnership with and supported by the Congregation Lead Pastor, the Associate Pastor is responsible to lead and integrate adult discipleship, guest experience, and outreach to foster spiritual growth, welcome newcomers, and build a strong volunteer culture. This position reports 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 time spent with the congregation team and in the community.  This position is eligible for ministerial licensing so long as the candidate meets the qualifications as set by Mariners.

Responsibilities

Discipleship & Outreach Leadership

Spearhead an aligned discipleship vision and implementation alongside Lead Pastor including Rooted, Life Groups, and Outreach Opportunities. 

• 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

Guest Experience Oversight

Leadership of Weekend Experience in collaboration with Lead Pastor and Ministry Coordinator to ensure volunteers are equipped, empowered, and encouraged to create a hospitable and welcoming environment. 

• 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

Volunteer Development

Responsible for shepherding, equipping, and growing teams of volunteers across different ministry contexts.

• 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
• 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

• 5-7 years of leadership experience in discipleship ministry, volunteer management, and/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.

• 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