Description:

Young Life is seeking a visionary, relational, and mission driven Area Director to lead and expand ministry in the Algarve—Portugal’s stunning southern coastline known for its warm climate, international community, and growing population of globally mobile families.

Why the Algarve?

Behind the postcard perfect beaches and resort towns lies a deeper reality:

Adolescents across the Algarve are experiencing profound need for spiritual connection.

Many come from transient or secular backgrounds, navigating identity, belonging, and purpose without meaningful spiritual guidance. The international school environment—diverse, high pressure, and often disconnected from local community—intensifies the need for trusted adults who will walk with them, listen to them, and point them toward hope.

Young people here are hungry for mentoring, authenticity, and a place to explore faith.

They need leaders who will show up consistently, love them deeply, and introduce them to Jesus in a way that feels real and relevant.

The Area Director will build relationships and research where to develop ministry primarily among students at the Algarve’s international schools, including:

• Nobel Algarve British International School (Lagoa & Almancil)
• Vale Verde International School​ (Burgau)
• Eupheus International School (Loulé)
• Vilamoura International School (Vilamoura)
• Aljezur International School​ (Aljezur)

These schools draw students from dozens of nations—children of expats, entrepreneurs, diplomats, seasonal residents, and families seeking a global education. This creates a unique and strategic mission field where cultural diversity meets spiritual openness.

What You’ll Do

• Build and lead a thriving Young Life ministry across the Algarve
• Pursue adolescents with relational, incarnational ministry
• Recruit, train, and shepherd volunteer leaders
• Partner with international schools to create presence and connection
• Develop local support, fundraising, and community partnerships
• Cast vision for long term growth and sustainability
• Create spaces where teens feel seen, known, and invited into life with Christ

What We’re Looking For

• A mature, growing follower of Jesus
• A leader who thrives in cross cultural environments
• A self-starter with strong relational instincts
• Someone who loves teenagers and believes in their potential
• A builder—of teams, partnerships, and ministry momentum
• A communicator who can connect with both local and international communities
• A Portuguese speaker or willing to acquire B1 level within 2 years

Benefits:

Housing supplements and cost of living adjustments help make living overseas affordable for international staff. In addition, staff may raise funds and be reimbursed for the purchase of a vehicle, an annual personal trip to see family, pre-K through 12th grade private school education for dependent children, language school, moving expenses, and a one-time bonus of up to two-months’ salary.

How to Apply:

To better help us serve you in your inquiry process, please take a moment to fill out the International Inquiry Form available via the button below.

Questions about international?​ Email our international employment coordinator at infointr@sc.younglife.org.