OVERVIEW

Christ Lutheran Church (Norfolk, Nebraska) seeks a highly organized, mission-driven Church Administrator to oversee the administrative, financial, operational, and facility functions of our congregation. This role ensures that church systems, resources, and operations run with excellence, transparency, and accountability — freeing ministry leaders to focus on preaching, teaching, discipleship, and pastoral care.

Christ Lutheran Church operates as a multi-ministry organization encompassing a church, K–8 school, and childcare center with an annual budget exceeding $4.5 million and approximately 65 employees. The Church Administrator is the key staff member responsible for carrying out administrative and operational responsibilities delegated by the Church Council, working in close partnership with the Senior Pastor, Board of Elders, Treasurer, Bookkeeper, and ministry staff.

This is a senior leadership role requiring significant initiative, financial acumen, and the ability to manage complex operational systems in a ministry environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee daily church office operations, administrative systems, and official records; supervise administrative staff and contracted service providers
• Lead the annual budgeting process and develop 3–5 year financial forecasts covering income, expenses, staffing, capital improvements, and ministry growth
• Build and maintain multi-year financial models; conduct financial risk assessments and sensitivity analysis to support Church Council decision-making
• Serve as primary financial advisor to the Church Council, translating complex data into clear, accessible reports for non-financial leaders
• Oversee maintenance, repairs, and improvements to all church facilities; manage vendor relationships and ensure safety, security, and regulatory compliance
• Administer employee benefits, coordinate payroll, support hiring and onboarding, and maintain HR documentation and employment compliance
• Serve as administrative liaison to the Church Council, Board of Elders, School Board, and Childcare Board; provide reports, data, and recommendations
• Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations; oversee background checks, safety protocols, and child-protection policies
• Coordinate church calendars, facility scheduling, and ministry logistics; ensure clear communication across staff, boards, and ministries

EXPERIENCE

Required:

• 3–5 years of experience in administrative or operational leadership
• Strong financial literacy with demonstrated budgeting, forecasting, or financial analysis experience
• Ability to build and maintain multi-year financial models
• Experience presenting financial information to non-financial audiences
• Proficiency in Excel or financial management software
• Working knowledge of HR processes and employment compliance
• Strong organizational, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• High integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism
• Practicing Christian; alignment with the mission and values of Christ Lutheran Church

Preferred:

• Member of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS)
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Accounting, or related field
• Experience in church, nonprofit, or ministry administration
• Experience with fund accounting or long-range financial planning
• Familiarity with church management software (e.g., Planning Center, ACS, Servant Keeper)

Pay: $80,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person