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Essential job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Fulfill job responsibilities by working collaboratively with the Director of Spiritual Formation Programs, Spiritual Formation Team (SFT) and other Student Life staff.
Direct and oversee Student Life’s Worship Arts Collective ministry; develop and coordinate opportunities for expressions of worship – including but not limited to music, drama, visual arts, spoken word, and dance – within chapel and other initiatives of the Spiritual Formation area; pursue broad participation within the student body; inviting all with the desire to share and to dedicate to the Lord worshipful expressions of artistic gifts and talents.
Actively work in partnership with the SFT staff and other Student Life staff in the development and coordination of opportunities for diverse expressions of worship – including but not limited to articulation of Christian spirituality, denominations, gender, ethnicity, age, and ableness; also included are expressions of worship – including but not limited to music, drama, visual arts, spoken word, and dance.
Foster student leadership, by providing direction and coaching in creating and nurturing a student-led worship culture; ensure diversity of styles and genres, taking care to avoid promotion of certain expressions of worship as normative.
Work closely and collaboratively with the SFT, Knight Hall/Events Services staff, and faculty/staff from other departments involved in chapel and spiritual formation activities/events; provide timely and updated information and communication.
Research, initiate contact with, and promptly respond to inquiries from prospective guest worship artists and chapel speakers/presenters. Provide detailed and timely communication to both internal and external speakers/presenters and worship artists; initiate contract and honorarium requests and facilitate travel expense payments/reimbursements.
In collaboration with SFT, maintain and keep updated the chapel and worship calendar, Planning Center, and other communication platforms.
Collaborate in planning and implementing spiritual formation initiatives; assist in the preparation and completion of projects and events overseen by the Director of Spiritual Formation Programs.
As requested or as needed, greet/accompany, pray with, and respond to requests of speakers/presenters and guest worship artists; introduce them and pray to open their chapel presentations.
Assist in the development, coordination and use of department communication systems (web/social media communications, calendaring, and written materials).
In collaboration with the Director of Spiritual Formation Programs, coordinate and participate in student discipleship and mentoring initiatives.
Because our community is a significant part of our mission and the development of our students, all employees act as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ by actively partnering with the University to disciple students in growing intellectually and spiritually, and with Northwestern Media to lead people to Christ and nurture believers to mature in their faith.
Secondary job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Speak periodically within chapel settings and other initiatives or programs within the Spiritual Formation area/Student Life.
Assist as needed with chapel check-in procedures and processes, responding to inquiries and guests, overseeing student leaders and student employees.
Perform other duties and assist with projects as assigned by the Director of Spiritual Formation Programs or Vice President.
What will it take to succeed in this position?
Minimum Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required
Directly related work experience a minimum of 2 years required
Previous work experience in a church, para-church ministry, or a post-secondary institution preferred
Maintain a personal relationship with Jesus Christ; is a consistent witness for Jesus Christ; maintain a kind, Christ-like attitude in dealing with and ministering to people within and outside of Northwestern; and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern’s mission, doctrinal statement and Declaration of Christian Community.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including public speaking
Ability to interact with a variety of individuals in a professional, courteous, and tactful manner
Ability to work both in a creative team environment and independently without close supervision
Ability to maintain confidential information
Ability to effectively supervise and lead a team of student leaders
Displays a personal commitment to students’ development and academic success
Strong skills in working with and empowering diverse student groups
Ability to nurture relationships with and coach students of various backgrounds
Demonstrates shared leadership that respects and values diversity, inclusion, and belonging
Ability to work in a detailed, organized fashion
Ability to prioritize tasks and projects, completing them accurately within deadlines
Knowledge of office procedures and methods, including electronic and social networking communications, record keeping, and data storage
Basic to intermediate computer proficiency (including proficiency in MS Office and social networking applications)
Ability to attend events when necessary, including evenings and weekends, as the job requires
Demonstrates ability to develop and manage the budget and financial resources commensurate with the position’s delegated level of responsibility.
Ability to pass a background check upon hire and periodically throughout the course of employment
Work Environment:
The work environment involves working in a suburban, Christian university, working alongside those with a demonstrated commitment and personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a commitment to the mission and values of the University and an agreement to abide by all University policies.
What are the benefits of working at Northwestern?
In addition to being part of a compelling, meaningful mission, we have benefits we believe set us apart from other employers.
For example we have:
Generous health, dental and other insurance benefits
Company retirement contributions
Complimentary access to campus athletic, music, and theatre events