Job Title: Director of Jewish Life
Organization: Institute of Soil and Soul
Location: Long Grove, IL
Position Type: Part-Time (15-20 hours per week; Grants already submitted for full-time salary position)
Compensation: $40/hour + Health Care + 401(k)
About the Institute of Soil and Soul:
The Institute of Soil and Soul is a nonprofit regenerative farm and educational center located in Long Grove, Illinois. Our mission is to grow and distribute regenerative produce to communities who lack access and to educate the public about the principles and methods of regenerative agriculture. As we expand into our second phase of growth, we seek to integrate our work with Jewish agricultural heritage, creating a dynamic environment that reconnects the Jewish community to the core values of sustainable farming through farm-based learning, celebrations of Jewish holidays, and community engagement. Our initiative is built on the values of environmental stewardship, food justice, and cultural heritage.
Position Overview:
The Director of Jewish Life will play a key role in advancing the Institute’s mission by providing leadership in Jewish community engagement and educational programming. This role will enhance and expand our Jewish agricultural offerings by coordinating educational experiences, celebrating Jewish holidays on the farm, and fostering collaborations with Jewish organizations, schools, and communities across the greater Chicago area and suburbs.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Development & Curriculum Integration:
- Design, implement, and oversee Jewish-focused educational programming, integrating Jewish agricultural principles, traditions, and values into farm-based learning experiences.
- Collaborate with Judaic studies teachers, Hebrew coordinators, and educational leaders to integrate our curriculum into local schools, bringing students to the farm for hands-on learning experiences.
Community Engagement & Event Coordination:
- Coordinate and facilitate community events that promote Jewish values related to farming and sustainability, including farm-to-table Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, and educational workshops.
- Cultivate partnerships with local Jewish organizations, schools, and community centers to enhance awareness and participation in farm events.
Outreach & Partnership Development:
- Lead outreach efforts to the greater Chicago area and suburbs to build relationships with Jewish institutions, schools, and community organizations.
- Establish and nurture collaborations with other Jewish organizations, local leaders, and potential sponsors to support and amplify the Institute’s mission.
Jewish Cultural Leadership:
- Foster a positive, inclusive Jewish learning environment on the farm.
- Plan and host educational and celebratory events around Jewish holidays, including Sukkot, Pesach, Shavuot, and Tu B’Shvat, engaging diverse Jewish communities.
Strategic Direction & Vision:
- Work closely with the Executive Director and the broader team to shape the Institute’s Jewish agricultural vision and ensure alignment with the Institute's overall mission and goals.
- Support the farm’s transition into its next phase of development by fostering Jewish life on the farm and connecting agriculture with Jewish spiritual and cultural practices.
Necessary Qualities:
- Energy, enthusiasm, and a strong passion for Jewish values, especially as they relate to agriculture, sustainability, and community engagement.
- Comfortable working in a pluralistic Jewish environment, and capable of engaging with diverse Jewish traditions and practices.
- Collaborative in nature with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Creative, inventive, and able to adapt quickly and flexibly in a dynamic, farm-based environment.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines while staying focused on the Institute’s mission.
- Strong desire to work in a hands-on, educational, and community-oriented setting.
Education and Experience:
- Required: Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) in a relevant field such as Jewish Studies, Education, Environmental Science, or related discipline.
- Preferred: Master’s degree in Jewish Studies, Education, or a related field.
- Experience in Jewish education, community engagement, and/or event coordination is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Part-time, hourly position (15-20 hours per week).
- Hourly rate of $40 per hour.
- Health care and 401(k) benefits provided.
How to Apply:
Please submit the following materials to [email protected]:
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the position, qualifications, and past experiences.
- A brief personal statement of your religious and educational philosophy.
- A current resume.
The Institute of Soil and Soul is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.