At RCCG Lighthouse for the Nations, we believe every child — regardless of ability — deserves to know they are seen, loved, and fully welcomed in the family of God. As our Special Needs Ministry Caretaker, you will walk alongside children with a range of physical, cognitive, developmental, and behavioral needs, providing consistent, compassionate care that allows their families to worship freely and confidently. This is more than a caregiving position — it is a calling.
At a glance
Location
Mansfield, Texas
Schedule
Sundays 10:00am – 12:30pm + occasional special events
Compensation
$10 – $30 per hour, based on experience and qualifications
Education
Associate’s degree minimum
Experience
2+ years with special needs children
Faith requirement
Professing Christian with an active faith life
Certifications
CPR & First Aid (or willingness to obtain within 30 days)
Responsibilities
- Provide attentive one-on-one or small group care for children with physical, cognitive, developmental, or behavioral special needs during Sunday services and ministry events
- Implement individualized care plans in close coordination with each child’s parent or guardian
- Maintain a safe, sensory-aware, and nurturing environment throughout every session
- Communicate consistently with families before and after each session, reporting notable moments, behaviors, or concerns with sensitivity
- Adapt curriculum, activities, and materials to meaningfully include each child at their level
- Assist children in transitioning to and from the general children’s ministry when appropriate
- Maintain confidential records of each child’s needs, care plans, and progress
- Respond calmly and effectively to behavioral escalations or medical situations, following established church protocols
- Attend team meetings, required trainings, and special ministry events as scheduled
Requirements
- Professing Christian with an active, demonstrable faith life
- Associate’s degree or higher in Special Education, Child Development, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field
- Minimum 2 years of direct, hands-on experience with special needs children in a classroom, therapy, caregiving, or ministry setting
- Current CPR and First Aid certification, or commitment to obtain within 30 days of hire
- Must successfully pass a comprehensive background check and child safety screening prior to employment
- Excellent verbal communication skills with both children and their families
- Demonstrated patience, emotional regulation, and adaptability in high-sensory or unpredictable environments
- Agreement with and commitment to uphold RCCG Lighthouse’s child protection policies at all times
Preferred qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a closely related field
- Experience with ABA therapy, AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices, or sensory processing techniques
- Familiarity with common diagnoses including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, ADHD, or cerebral palsy
- Prior experience in a church, faith-based, or volunteer ministry setting
- Training in de-escalation or trauma-informed care approaches
Work environment & expectations
- Reports directly to the Children’s Ministry Director
- Schedule includes Sunday services (10:00am – 12:30pm) and may include occasional special events
- Maintains a professional, Christ-centered demeanor in all interactions with children, families, and church staff
- Treats all families and children with dignity, confidentiality, and unconditional respect
- Compensation is $10–$30/hr, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Pay: $22.31 - $26.87 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Food provided
Work Location: In person
