About Us

Employment Opportunities

Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church seeks to fill four roles: an interim Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership (EOP) program, a Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership (EOP), a Director of Engagement, and a 2025 Summer Pastoral Resident.

To apply for the interim Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership position, please send your resume, cover letter, and three references to [email protected].

To apply for the Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership position, please send your resume, cover letter, and three references to [email protected].

To apply for the Director of Engagement position, please send your resume, cover letter, and three references (one pastoral, one professional, and one additional reference of your choice) to the Rev. Chris Palmer at [email protected].

To apply for the 2025 Summer Pastoral Residency, please send your resume, cover letter, three references (one pastoral, one academic, and one additional reference of your choice), and two sermons to be viewed digitally to [email protected].

Interim Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership

Position Objective

To serve as the interim director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership (EOP) program at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. The interim director of this outreach partnership located in mid-town Manhattan, NY will respond to the day-to-day service needs of clients and by applying the specific assessment and intervention skills to support those in need; 2) manage the meal program and 3) provide effective administrative and volunteer management to EOP.

In 2017, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church established the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership, an outreach program to the homeless, as a collaborative ministry with St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Saint Thomas Church. EOP works together to engage and connect with the mid-town Manhattan homeless population. The program supports people living on the street, in the shelter system, or those insecurely sheltered and newly arrived; or people struggling with ramifications of poverty, unemployment, hunger, mental and physical illness, substance abuse, trauma and isolation.

The interim Director of EOP reports to the Director of Outreach and Missions. S/he will work closely with the Director of Outreach and Missions on a day-to-day basis. The Director of Outreach and Missions will provide executive oversight of the programs to ensure program, mission and value alignment with Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, and the other sponsoring partners. 

The interim Director of EOP is a temporary consultant to Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, working onsite with clients to manage essential and basic needs, the meal program and daily intake numbers. Contract basis from January 2025 to March 2025; Hourly rate of $75.00 per hour. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume and three references to [email protected].

Major Responsibilities

  • Track and maintain client metrics and data related to the daily log of case management needs, referrals, direct assistance and group programming.
  • Provide case management services to clients, including referrals and direct assistance to meet basic and essential needs.
  • Manage the meal program on Mondays and Wednesdays by taking the client count, interacting with clients and maintaining safe and orderly environment on the street where meals are served.
  • Supervise the EOP meal time volunteers and vendors (e.g., meal provider and security).
  • Maintain a small caseload of clients and liaise between clients and support agencies and providers. Provide information and referrals (e.g., social security, medical appointment coordination). As appropriate, coordinate client care with all onsite partner providers (e.g., housing and healthcare providers).
  • Direct all facets of the EOP operation in a manner consistent with the EOP mission, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church mission and the ethical standards of social work.

Professional Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a human services field, with a licensed Master of Social Work strongly preferred.
  • Three to five years of experience addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, with proven clinical assessment skills.
  • Experience in crisis counseling and outreach to the homeless or vulnerable or mentally ill populations.
  • Demonstrated program management skills.
  • Experience supervising vendors and volunteers.

Personal Qualities

  • Professional commitment to the EOP mission, and the mission and values of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church.
  • Cultural competency and fluency interacting with the homeless, mentally ill, and non-English speakers.
  • A professional demeanor with a collaborative and adaptive work style.
  • A self-starter, who is also self-directed.
  • Comfortable working within a complex, faith-based setting with multiple competing priorities.

Director of the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership

Position Objective

To manage the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership (EOP) program of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Saint Thomas Church. The director of this outreach partnership located in mid-town Manhattan, NY will direct all facets of the program operation to: 1) enhance the quality of care and services offered to vulnerable client by applying the specific social work skills to support those in need and 2) provide effective administrative, program, client, staff, volunteer and stakeholder management to EOP.

In 2017, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church established the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership, an outreach program to the homeless, as a collaborative ministry with St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Saint Thomas Church. With the three faith partners, EOP works together to engage and connect with the mid-town Manhattan homeless population. The program supports people living on the street, in the shelter system, or those insecurely sheltered and newly arrived; or people struggling with ramifications of poverty, unemployment, hunger, mental and physical illness, substance abuse, trauma and isolation.

The EOP program goal for each client is to self-empower the individual to facilitate progress on a continuum of care, independently or in conjunction with a social worker. To achieve that end, the director manages the overall day-to-day client program and services, working towards advancing outcomes in the core program pillars: housing, physical health and mental health, food security, benefits assistance and spiritual care. Simultaneously, s/he manages the day-to-day administrative operation. EOP works with clients by offering case management, referrals and direct assistance. Through a series of client touch points and/or staff recommendations, the director gauges the needs of our homeless and vulnerable clients related to EOP’s core pillars. In concert with staff, s/he responds directly or supports staff members to identify the appropriate intervention strategy or method for each unique client.  The director will supervise two staff members at a minimum: a case manager and a social worker, and as appropriate, a student intern.

The Director of EOP reports to the Director of Outreach and Missions. S/he will work closely with the Director of Outreach and Missions on a day-to-day basis. The Director of Outreach and Missions will provide executive oversight of the programs to ensure program, mission and value alignment with Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, and the other sponsoring partners.

The Director of EOP is an employee of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, working onsite with clients, conducting targeted street outreach, and to manage staff.  Salary Range: $70,000 - $75,000. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume and three references to [email protected]. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with an anticipated start in March 2025.

Major Responsibilities

  • Maintain accurate client case records that include assessments, interventions and service plans, and case notes.
  • Track and maintain client metrics and data related to case management, referrals, direct assistance and group programming.
  • Produce and/or contribute to reports related to program outcomes and agreed upon deliverables (e.g., grant reports). Communicate as needed to partner churches, program stakeholders, donors and foundations.
  • Contribute to grant applications by drafting and/or reviewing narratives, metrics, budgets and providing input on the client operation and needs for which EOP seeks funding.
  • Direct and advance the program model as needed to meet client needs, trends and current environment. Communicate recommendations to Director of Outreach and Missions, EOP staff and Advisory Board members, funders and the EOP community. 
  • Assess client needs and engage clients through case management services. Provide referrals and direct assistance directly or by advising and consulting staff.
  • Establish and track benchmarks related to the core program pillars. Incorporate findings and recommendations to innovate program and pilot new opportunities, aligned to funding, program mission and other program aspects and institutional culture.
  • Create community awareness for the EOP program through client and community engagement. Welcome community members to volunteer on a routine basis or as needed.
  • Supervise the EOP staff and volunteers, including vendors.
  • Maintain a case load of clients and liaise between clients and support agencies and providers. Provide information and referrals (e.g., social security, medical appointment coordination). As appropriate, coordinate client care with all onsite partner providers (e.g., housing and healthcare providers).
  • Participate in all-staff meetings and, as appropriate, staff or lay-led events at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church.
  • Direct all facets of the EOP operation in a manner consistent with the EOP mission, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church mission and the ethical standards of social work.

Professional Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a human services field, with a licensed Master of Social Work strongly preferred.

  • Three to five years of experience addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, with proven clinical assessment skills.

  • Experience in crisis counseling and outreach to the homeless or vulnerable or mentally ill populations.

  • Demonstrated program management skills.

  • Experience supervising staff, vendors and volunteers.

  • Bilingual (Spanish) strongly preferred.

  • Organizational and communication skills to manage administrative details and personnel aspects of the EOP program.

    Personal Qualities

  • Professional commitment to the EOP mission, and the mission and values of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church.

  • Knowledge of current trends in social work and mental wellness, as well as New York City agency specific services that support the homeless (e.g., New York City Department of Homeless Services).

  • Cultural competency and fluency interacting with the homeless, mentally ill, and non-English speakers.

  • A professional demeanor with a collaborative and adaptive work style.

  • A self-starter, who is also self-directed.

  • Comfortable working within a complex, faith-based setting with multiple competing priorities.

    Director of Engagement

    Position Objective

    To invite, welcome and integrate members, onsite and online, into the robust life of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. With a focus on hospitality, inclusion, and transformative gatherings, this position supports Fifth Avenue’s mission 1) to welcome new people to join us on the journey of life and faith, and 2) to strengthen connections between existing congregants by increasing people’s overall engagement with the programmatic life of the church.

    Major Responsibilities

    1. Hospitality and Welcome

    • Oversee and participate in Fifth Avenue’s coffee hours with an eye for ingenuity and worthwhile fellowship to drive recurring participation and lively conversation.
    • Track and manage visitor information. Follow up on pew cards and information requests. Ensure visitors receive a 30-day follow-up. Share visitor’s interest areas with the staff.
    • Connect with worshippers through email, mailers, phone calls, and in-person visits. Help connect these individuals to relevant ministry areas.
    • Help greet and be a staff presence at both worship services, supporting ushers and creating an environment of welcome.
    • Oversee, train, and support the Welcome Team, ensuring an active culture of warmth, welcome and inclusion.
    • Oversee and manage the Ministry Scheduler.

    2. Community Groups and Engagement

    • Lead the Engagement Committee, with a focus for both in person and extended family members.
    • Meet quarterly with the Communications Team to review outward facing information that can facilitate organic and seamless points of entry into our community.
    • Support the growth of our community group ministry through leading community groups on occasion, and helping new members connect to this ministry opportunities.
    • Manage and support the content and facilitation of a diverse array of community group curriculum offerings.
    • Maintain connection with community group leaders to offer additional support through the year.

    3. Logistical Support and Admin Work

    • Work with the admin staff and pastors, assist in organizing member participation in worship services and events, when and where appropriate.
    • Prepare the monthly membership report for Session.
    • Manage a straightforward registration process for the Community Group ministry and new member classes.
    • Manage Community Group rosters.
    • Recruit new member prospects for new member classes, coordinate adult baptisms, coordinate with Communications to ensure class advertisement.
    • Ensure the careful and regular upkeep of accurate membership rolls, including the tracking of marriages, baptisms, confirmations, deaths, births, etc., in both physical and electronic forms.

    4. Events

    • In coordination with the pastors, assist in planning and executing major community events including the Kenneth O. Jones Awards Dinner, Homecoming Celebration, Beyond the Walls, Gotto Lecture, etc.
    • Guide the Engagement Committee to establish innovative, “low commitment” and regular events for our community to gather and foster meaningful relationships outside of worship, committee meetings, service events, and established community groups.

    5. Women’s Ministry

    • Plan and lead Women’s Ministry events in collaboration with other Senior Staff.
    • Manage the Women’s Ministry email list, writing and creating a consistent email rhythm to share event reminders and sign-ups with that group.
    • Oversee that Women’s Ministry events are advertised on the website and in the bulletin, and that photos are shared on Instagram after the events.
    • Attend and support other Senior Staff in the planning and leading of the Women’s Retreat in February, and in any springtime preparation for the day retreat in June.

    6. Evangelism

    • Work with the Associate Pastor of Young Adults & Membership and the Associate Pastor of Ministry to the Online Campus to discern opportunities for evangelism and outreach to those in the greater community.
    • Guide the Engagement Committee to review large community and fellowship events with an eye for new member engagement, creating a clear path from such events into the life of the church.

    Professional Qualifications

    • Background in fostering personal connections and building community.
    • Experience in the church and/or theological education preferred.
    • Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
    • Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and awareness in working with diverse communities, including differences in race, nationality, economic background, sexuality, gender, and disability.

    Personal Qualities

    • An outgoing personality with strong interpersonal skills.
    • Dependable, compassionate, and loyal.
    • A desire to grow and add value in a collaborative ministry context
    • The ability to communicate the loving presence of Jesus Christ to the theologically curious, both those who are churched and unchurched.

    Compensation/Benefits

    • Salary: $65,000 - $75,000
    • Benefits: health, retirement, commuter, and childcare
    • Vacation: 2 weeks vacation, 2 weeks continuing education

    2025 Summer Pastoral Resident

    Position Objective

    To provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care to the congregation of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church during the summer while the Associate Pastor for Congregational Care and Family Ministries is on sabbatical. Responsibilities include assisting with worship services, providing pastoral care, and leading a weeklong youth trip. This residency is designed for a seminarian or Ph.D. candidate seeking hands-on experience in congregational ministry and spiritual formation.

    Congregational Care

    • Assist with general pastoral care for the congregation, including hospital visits, homebound visitations, and grief support as needed.
    • Collaborate with the Parish Visitor to triage congregational care needs, determining which members require check-ins, visits, or pastoral outreach.
    • Help coordinate and respond to pastoral emergencies in consultation with the Parish Visitor and clergy team.
    • Assist with funeral/memorial services as needed.

    Youth Ministry

    • Participate and work with our Director of Christian Education on a weekend Family Camp trip at Holmes (June 6-8)
    • Execute a weeklong youth trip (with the guidance of the youth ministry team) (Date TBA but most likely one of the last two weeks of July)
    • Serve as a pastoral presence for the youth and their families during the trip.
    • Foster engagement with youth through two other events—(example a trip to the Farminary, service at the Ecumenical Outreach Partnership, or after church picnic).

    Worship Leadership

    • Preach two sermons during the summer.
    • Participate in weekly worship services, providing liturgical leadership.
    • Collaborate with clergy on worship planning and execution.

    General Ministry

    • Attend weekly senior staff meetings.
    • Participate in special summer church events.
    • Assist with the pastoral leadership of the congregation as needed.

    Professional Qualifications Required

    • Current enrollment (or graduate) in a seminary or PhD program.
    • A demonstrated ability to lead and work collaboratively in ministry settings.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
    • Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and awareness in working with diverse communities, including differences in race, nationality, economic background, sexuality, gender, and disability.

      Personal Qualities Desired

      • A warm, engaging personality with the ability to build meaningful relationships.
      • Spiritual depth and a passion for ministering to people in times of need.
      • A desire to grow and learn in a dynamic ministry environment.
      • Ability to communicate the love and presence of Jesus Christ in worship and pastoral care settings.

      Compensation/Benefits

      • Salary: $15,000
      • Benefits: 5 days time off (2 Sundays)