All Ministry Jobs → Illinois
Ministry Jobs in Illinois
Browse open pastor, worship leader, youth minister, and church staff positions in Illinois.
9
Open Positions
3
Added This Week
9
Churches Hiring
Last updated April 15, 2026
Ministry Salaries & Market Data in Illinois
Ministry opportunities in this Midwest state offer a diverse landscape with approximately 9,800 churches representing strong Catholic, Baptist, and Methodist communities. While the cost of living index of 104.7 remains close to the national average and median home prices of $270,000 provide reasonable housing options, pastors should be aware that hiring trends are currently declining across the state. Senior pastor salaries typically range from $58,000 to $105,000, providing competitive compensation that aligns well with the moderate cost of living. Those considering ministry positions here will find established faith communities and affordable living, though job seekers may need to be patient and persistent in their search due to the current market conditions.
Cost of Living
104.7
100 = national avg
Median Home Price
$270,000
2026 estimate
Hiring Trend
Declining
9,800 churches
| Position | Salary Range in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Senior Pastor | $58k - $105k |
| Youth Pastor | $40k - $65k |
| Worship Leader | $38k - $62k |
| Children's Director | $35k - $58k |
Top Denominations in Illinois
Catholic, Baptist, Methodist
Open Positions in Illinois
Business Manager
Center Church Lake County
Libertyville, IL
Aim The mission of Center Church is to lead people to a Jesus-centered life. In support of this mission, the Business Manager will oversee the financial, HR, & administrative functions of the church. Business Manager Responsibilities: - Monitor the weekly financial activity to ensure the income, spending, & bill payments are properly managed - Maintain proper accounting records and act as the point of contact to our bookkeeping service (MyXP) - Develop comparative financial statements - Provide financial analysis (as required) - Support the annual budgeting process & the monthly reporting to Staff & Elders - Ensure donor reporting is accurate and timely - Manage the payroll process by working with payroll provider - Manage the HR functions of the church according to the directives established by the Elder Board - Maintain strict confidentiality of HR documents, staff payroll and donor records - Manage the storage of key documents & records of the Church - Provide administrative & office support as directed by the Lead Pastor Accountability Reporting Business Manager - This role reports to the Lead Pastor. Expectations The supervisor and employee are to keep open communication with regard to the objectives and priorities of this role through the use of a Ministry Action Plan. Required Experience - 5+ years of experience in accounting and HR processes or office administration - Ability to maintain confidentiality - Accounting or associates degree or working knowledge of accounting processes - Strong Excel, Word & database skills - A personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord - Commitment to the vision and goals of Center Church Leadership Requirements - Interpersonal communication skills accompanied with a high emotional intelligence - Highly relational leader who empowers others to engage with the church’s mission, vision, and values through the Family Membership commitment - Ability to organize systems, events, and people around stated ministry goals - Ability to learn essential platforms for Staff leadership. Including but not limited to Planning Center, Click-Up, & G-Suite - Must take initiative to independently achieve ministry responsibilities - Ability to self-manage and initiate needed work to achieve objectives of Ministry Action Plan - Must be able to adapt and work under the demands of an intense ministry environment - Capacity to grow with the changing leadership demands of a developing church
Senior Pastor
Fox River Lutheran Church
Sheridan, IL
$80,000 - $100,000
Senior Pastor Job Description The senior pastor should be an unashamed proclaimer of the Gospel–speaking truth with love while standing firm on God’s word. Not avoiding biblical topics over fear of reprisal or unpopularity. They should be a shepherd of the church–defending the truth of Scripture, recognizing false doctrine and worldly influence, addressing political and current events from a biblical perspective. Key Responsibilities: - Preaching and Teaching: Deliver engaging sermons and biblical teachings during worship services and special events. - Pastoral Care: Provide support and counseling to congregation members, especially during times of crisis. - Leadership and Vision: Develop and communicate the church’s vision, fostering spiritual growth and community service. - Worship Service Coordination: Plan and lead worship services, collaborating with the worship team for meaningful experiences. - Staff and Volunteer Management: Mentor and supervise church staff and volunteers, promoting a positive work environment. - Community Engagement: Encourage outreach programs and initiatives that connect the church with the local community. Qualifications: - Educational Background: A degree in Theology, Biblical Studies, or a related field from an accredited institution. - Ordination Status: Ordination of licensing as a pastor by a legitimate evangelical church body - Experience: Proven experience in pastoral ministry and spiritual leadership. - Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication abilities. - Organizational skills: Proficient in administrative tasks and church management. Additional Duties: - Conduct weddings, funerals, baptisms, confirmation, and other ceremonies. - Participate in church governance and decision-making processes. - Foster a culture of faith, love, and service within the congregation. To apply, email a resume and cover letter to callcommittee@foxriverlutheran.org https://www.foxriverlutheran.org/
Director of Local Outreach
Glen Ellyn Bible Church
Glen Ellyn, IL
POSITION TITLE: Local Outreach Director REPORTS TO: Executive Pastor CLASSIFICATION: Part-time/20 Hrs Weekly /Non-Exempt DEPARTMENT: Adult Ministries JOB SUMMARY: The Local Outreach Director is responsible for providing operational and administrative oversight to facilitate the continuation of established outreach ministries, like the Care Center, serving GEBC neighbors and partnering with local organizations. Under the direct supervision of the Executive Pastor this position will be responsible for the following: OBJECTIVES/PURPOSE: Lead the congregation by running the Care Center and spearhead our work with local outreach partnerships ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: General - Manage and oversee the established and growing partnerships with local outreach ministries, helping to drive forward the areas of GEBC involvement in the community - Lead and organize the work of the Care Center, equipping the Core Leadership Team, and mobilizing volunteers - Devote special attention to the coat drive and coat sale - Place and acquire monthly orders of groceries through Northern IL Food Bank and other suppliers - Manage budget to maximize impact in current operations and long-term projects - Collaborate with GEBC programming staff (including Children’s, Student, and Adults Ministries) to provide meaningful opportunities for church-wide integration in the Caregiving Center and outreach ministries - Work with select local nonprofits to develop long term partnerships opportunities that provide local expressions of our core areas of interest - Oversee and execute associated promotional calendar and events QUALIFICATIONS: - Education/Certification: Proven experience in systems and compassion ministry - Required Knowledge: Computer savvy, familiar with Google Suite, Canva, spreadsheets and word processing - Experience Required: Two years non-profit leadership experience preferred - Skills/Abilities: Excellent leadership of teams and volunteers, administrative, organizational, and communication skills
Children's Director
First Baptist Church
Decatur, IL
$27,000
First Baptist Church of Decatur Illinois is looking for a Children’s Ministry Director to their staff. The Children’s director will lead and develop the Children’s Ministry Discipleship and Evangelism at First Baptist Church Decatur. The director will need to have a strong Biblical foundation, experience in Children’s Ministry, a vibrant faith, leadership and organizational skills. Please email chrislchambers85@gmail.com for more information or call (217)875-8034. Role: To lead and develop the Children’s Ministry Discipleship and Evangelism at First Baptist Church Decatur Illinois. Summary of Position: The Children’s Director is the leader and advocate of the church to oversee and coordinate the ministries making sure that children are introduced to God’s love for sinners and the grace of Jesus Christ. The Children’s Director will need to lead ministries that nurtures (discipleship) and grows children's and parent's personal faith in Jesus. This job covers children in the nursery through Fifth Grade. Qualifications Has a strong Biblical foundation. Strong in management skills, leadership training and vision casting. Possesses a servant’s heart and vibrant love for Jesus & people. Has experience with children in ministry and/or teaching. Has a teachable spirit and is growing in faith and leadership skills. Outgoing, encouraging and loving towards all children. Has initiative and organizational skills. Responsibilities: Will develop and oversee all Children’s Ministry activities for nurturing faith in Jesus and outreach to new children and families. Will recruit leaders and teachers for all Children’s Ministry volunteer positions.
Head Pastor
Ridgeview Baptist Church
Danville, IL
$25,000 - $42,000
About the ministry: The Head Pastor’s job would involve Pastoring a small to mid-sized, semi-rural church. The goal would be to have the pastor lead church members and attendees in growing as a spiritual body and in growing deeper in their individual relationships with Christ. Also, the head pastor would be instrumental in creating a vision for the church and its staff to serve and disciple families, both within the church and in the community at large, and to provide leadership in fostering the implementation of that vision (mission). The head pastor would be expected to spend time and effort in activities including: preaching, pastoral care, counseling, visitation, preparation for worship, fostering church growth, leading in evangelism, and interpreting the faith; among other undertakings. The head pastor would work with and disciple church staff and other motivated adult volunteers to aid in the implementation of the church’s vision in serving Jesus by serving our church and the community. Our church is excited to meet the individual God brings to us, and through our prayers, we trust that the Holy Spirit will develop the ministry of Ridgeview Baptist Church through this individual’s giftedness and Christ’s guidance. ‘ The proposed pay and benefits reflect an expectation of a bi-vocational or part-time effort involving flexible hours. About our Church: Ridgeview Baptist Church is an American Baptist church in East Central Illinois. Over the past 15 years, at times, the church has enjoyed the attendance of over 150 people in Sunday worship services, and at other times, we have had fewer than 50 in attendance. The church recently experienced a substantial decline in attendance and membership. Under the 2-year tenure of a newly hired head pastor, a number of long-term members transferred membership out of the church, and 100% of the support staff resigned. This was not what anyone would call a “church split”; it was more a rapid attrition. However, it was a “gut punch” to the 70-year church culture and those who remained in active membership. The church currently employs a part time custodian and contracts with an accountant. The head pastor would be in a supervisory role while working closely with volunteers and any staff members. The church operates under a governing board of spiritually mature volunteers. The Board is considering a salary package between $25,000 and $42,000. This would include housing in a nearby parsonage. For reference, the median income in Danville, IL is $44,239 and median rent is $775/mo. The median home price is $95,667, and the median teacher salary is $54,322 with an entry level teacher making under $45,000.
Associate/Worship Pastor
LifePoint Church
Collinsville, IL
$45,000
We are looking for a younger energetic hard working willing to learn individual, who has worship lead capabilities and associate pastor and speaking skills.
Part-Time Pastor
American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region
Springfield, IL
$15,000 - $35,000
Part-Time Pastor Opportunities American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region (ABC-GRR) The American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region is currently seeking qualified and called individuals to serve in multiple part-time pastoral positions across our region. These congregations vary in size, context, and ministry focus, offering meaningful opportunities for pastors who are passionate about local church leadership, community engagement, and faithful proclamation of the Gospel. Current Illinois Openings We are actively seeking candidates for part-time pastoral roles in the following Illinois communities: - Canton - Carlinville - Carterville - Collinsville - Cottage Hills - Danville - East Alton - Oak Park - Virden - Additional congregations across the region (Church profiles and specific ministry contexts are available upon inquiry.) Position Overview Part-time pastors will provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care within a local congregation. Responsibilities may include: - Leading weekly worship and preaching - Providing pastoral care and visitation - Supporting church leadership and ministry development - Engaging the congregation in mission and outreach - Collaborating with lay leaders and regional staff Specific expectations, schedules, and compensation will vary by congregation. Qualifications Candidates must: - Demonstrate a clear sense of pastoral calling and commitment to Christian ministry - Be willing to sign and adhere to the American Baptist Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders - Affirm and support ABC-USA historic doctrines and polity - Possess appropriate theological education (MDiv or equivalent preferred, though context may vary) - Exhibit strong interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills - Be willing to serve in a part-time capacity with flexibility based on congregational needs Vetting Process All candidates will be required to complete a thorough screening process, including: - Verification of academic credentials - Criminal background check - Reference checks - Additional assessments as appropriate About ABC-GRR The American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region is part of the wider American Baptist Churches USA, a network of congregations characterized by local church autonomy, cooperative mission, and diverse expressions of Baptist life. How to Apply or Learn More For more information about current openings or to begin the application process, please contact: Rev. Dr. Rob Kirbach Associate Executive Minister, American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region - 217-726-7366 x13 - rob@abcgrr.org
Worship Director/Pastor
Grace Bible Church
Washington, IL
Job Description: Worship Pastor / Worship Leader Job Description Grace Bible Church – Washington, IL Position Summary The Worship Pastor (or Worship Leader) will shepherd the congregation of Grace Bible Church in glorifying God through Christ-centered, biblically grounded worship. This role is both pastoral and musical: leading our people in worship that is rooted in the Word, exalts Christ, and builds up the body through Spirit-led excellence. NOTE** THE FOLLOWING RESPONSIBILITIES ARE FOR A FULL-TIME POSITION. THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY PART-TIME WORKING INTO FULL-TIME; THEREFORE, PART-TIME RESPONSIBILTIES AND HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED. Primary Responsibilities Worship Leadership - Lead Sunday worship gatherings with humility, authenticity, and joy. - Plan services in collaboration with the Senior Pastor, ensuring Scripture, prayer, and song flow together with theological depth. - Select music that reflects biblical truth, a balance of historic hymns and modern worship, and congregational accessibility. - Model and cultivate a heart of worship beyond performance—guiding people into the presence of God. Team Development - Recruit, equip, and shepherd volunteer musicians, vocalists, and AV/tech team members. - Provide spiritual encouragement and discipleship for the worship team. - Schedule rehearsals and mentor musicians in both skill and heart. Pastoral Care & Ministry - Care for the spiritual health of the worship team and congregation. - Partner with other ministry leaders to encourage unity and Gospel-centered mission. Administrative Duties - Oversee music licensing, media preparation, and sound/tech support. - Work with elders on budgeting for worship ministry needs. Qualifications Spiritual & Pastoral - A clear testimony of salvation through Jesus Christ and ongoing growth in the faith. - A calling to shepherd God’s people in worship. - Alignment with Grace Bible Church’s statement of faith and core values. - A lifestyle marked by humility, integrity, and love for God’s Word. Musical & Leadership - Proficiency in at least one primary instrument (guitar or piano preferred). - Strong vocal ability with the capacity to lead a congregation in song. - Ability to train and direct musicians with grace and clarity. - Experience in leading worship in a church setting preferred, but not required. Position Details - Reports to: Senior Pastor - Status: Part-Time Hourly (5-10 hours/week), moving to Full-Time Salaried (40-45 hours/week) - Compensation: Commensurate with experience, education, and availability (min. starting $20/hr-max. starting $35/hr - Start Date: Open until filled How to Apply Please submit: - A personal testimony of faith and calling to worship ministry. - A resume including ministry and musical experience. - A video or audio sample of you leading worship (if available). Email applications to: worshippastor@gbcwa.org
Missions Pastor
Harvest Bible Chapel
Chicago, IL
$60,000 - $75,000
Harvest Bible Chapel Chicago is seeking a Missions Pastor to lead and expand our local and global missions efforts. This role oversees mission partnerships, short-term trip coordination, missionary support, and missions education for the congregation. The ideal candidate has cross-cultural ministry experience, strong organizational skills, and a heart for the nations.
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