Scripture is foundational for supporting discipleship and strengthening the local church. But today about 1.5 billion people still don’t have the full Bible in their language. At Wycliffe, we believe no one should still be waiting for access to God’s Word, so we’re following God’s lead, pressing into new approaches and advancing His global mission.

Are you ready to join God where He’s at work? When you serve in Bible translation as a supported staff member and become a missionary, your contributions will have an impact beyond what you ever could have imagined.

If you’re wondering what our application and onboarding process looks like, there are nine steps to becoming a missionary and supported staff member with Wycliffe Bible Translators USA.

Step 1: Meet With a Missions Coach

It can be a challenge to choose a missions organization. That’s why our missions coaches and recruiters are here to answer your questions. And even if you aren’t sure whether you’re ready to serve with us, we’ll pray with you and offer guidance as you follow God’s lead.

When you lean into your curiosity, you could be connected to exciting possibilities where your contributions have lasting impact. Read our blog article “9 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Missions Organization” to help you ask important questions.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Once you and your missions coach decide that Wycliffe is a good fit for you, then you’re ready to start your application. We want to get to know you and learn more about your education, skills, work history and experience in other cultures. Because we are a faith-based organization, you’ll also be asked to acknowledge that you agree with our beliefs and core values. If you’ve experienced the power of God’s Word in your own life and are actively pursuing a relationship with Him, you could be part of a deeply fulfilling global mission at Wycliffe!

You’ll also complete a few questionnaires designed to create a complete picture of you and your life. The questionnaires include questions about your faith, community, family information, ministry experience, general history and financial responsibility.

Step 3: Find Your Best Fit

During this step, we will set up an interview to talk about your application. We may connect you with teams and hiring managers for additional interviews so we can find your place to belong. When you bring your humble, generous, collaborative spirit to Wycliffe, you’ll find yourself enriched by true diversity — whether in the U.S. or across the world.

Find out what it takes to serve as a missionary by watching our free, on-demand webinar, “Key Skills for Missionaries.”

Step 4: Partner With Your Community

Who knows you well? Your current community plays a crucial role in your future missions journey! After your interview(s), we will request four references from you: one from a Christian leader, one from a Christian friend, one from a previous work supervisor and one from a previous work colleague.

You’ll also need to set up a time to talk with your pastor or church leader for advice and input. Our passion is partnering with local churches, so we will reach out to your church leader to discuss your readiness to serve.

You can even start talking to your pastor now. For ideas on how to get the conversation about missions started, read our article: “7 Questions to Ask Your Pastor When You’re Thinking About Missions.”

Step 5: Receive Your Job Offer

It can take anywhere from one to six months to complete the application process, perform a background check and fill out employee paperwork. When you’ve been accepted, you’ll officially be a supported staff member and missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators USA!

We’ll provide you a job package which includes a description of your position. If your position is located overseas, you’ll also receive information about the country where you will work.

Step 6: Connect With Your Launch Team

Next we will introduce you to several new members of your team. Whether you are serving from the U.S. or overseas, we are ready to come alongside you to provide prayer and encouragement.

Your launch coordinator will help you get ready to start your role. You’ll also be assigned a partnership development coach to help you as you build your team of financial supporters. Finally your human resources finance liaison will help you set up a budget based on a variety of factors, such as your work location, role and family size.

Step 7: Take Trainings and Attend Orientation

Before you start your assignment, you’ll need to complete several online training modules. You’ll also attend our week-long orientation program, Engage, at our headquarters in Orlando, Florida. There, you’ll find out more about serving with us, build relationships with other new staff and learn how to develop a team of financial and prayer partners.

Step 8: Develop a Partnership Team

As a supported staff member, you’ll receive your salary through the faithful giving of individuals, churches and groups in your personal partnership team. The total amount varies, but always covers benefits, healthcare, retirement, ministry expenses and more. Fully developing a team before starting your role can take anywhere from three months to two years, depending on your current relationships, budget and schedule.

As you build your partnership team, you’ll develop relationships that will become some of the most meaningful connections in your life. Not only will you receive critical support and encouragement, but you’ll also give others the opportunity to get involved in what God is doing through Bible translation work.

If you venture forward in faith, we’ll provide you with extensive training and resources. God will lead and provide, and we’ll be with you every step of the way too. To learn more, watch “How to Build a Financial Partnership Team Without Fear.”

Step 9: Join God Where He’s at Work

From submitting your application to developing a partnership team and starting your official role, moving through each step of the process can take anywhere from one to two years. However, depending on your position, the process can move faster.

But your journey doesn’t end when you start your job. To thrive with us, you’ll need to be an agile learner and prioritize your emotional, mental and spiritual health as you grow into the person God wants you to be.

Ready to Do Your Part?

If you’re ready to face challenges with determination, you’ll join a passionate team of people who are deeply rooted in their faith. And if you’re flexible and humble, you can work together with others toward something bigger as you rely on and learn from one another. God is on the move in the world, and we’re excited for you to join Him in the work of Bible translation!