Job Description:
We seek an engaging Associate Rabbi or Cantor to serve our Conservative congregation, focusing on Jewish education and spiritual leadership. The ideal candidate will combine deep Torah knowledge with teaching abilities, emotional intelligence, and a love of using song to enhance prayer to nurture both individual and community growth.
Educational leadership is vital as this new clergy will oversee our religious school and adult education programs, shaping curricula that inspire a love of Judaism and spiritual connection. Religious school responsibilities will include staff supervision through collaboration, and with the Educational Director, co-creating and implementing curricula to infuse knowledge of Jewish traditions and prayer, especially using project-based learning and storytelling. For our adult congregants, this Rabbi or Cantor will be responsible for developing and nurturing innovative learning experiences (lay-led study programs, interfaith learning, contemporary Jewish life, etc.), to inspire congregants to embrace Jewish learning and enhance their own connections.
Fostering spiritual engagement is equally important, as our congregation continues our initiative to grow in its connection to prayer and spirituality, mainly through song and music. Along with the Senior Rabbi and lay leaders, our new Rabbi or Cantor will be responsible for continuing to guide us along this path, serving as a prayer leader as needed, but especially fostering a culture of lay leadership for our services (daily, Shabbat, and holiday). Our goal is to balance traditional nusah with participatory singing, encouraging congregants to lead and connect with their own spirituality.
Additionally, the Rabbi or Cantor will have the opportunity to provide pastoral care and spiritual support to our community, under the guidance of our Senior Rabbi. This new clergy will also collaborate with other local organizations and may represent Ahavath Achim Synagogue and community events. We welcome a partner who will share their own spiritual journey with leadership, staff, and families, inspiring and deepening relationships within our congregation and the broader community.
Qualifications:
This position requires a dynamic individual who can balance multiple responsibilities and connect with congregants of all ages. The ideal candidate will be passionate about Jewish education, committed to creating meaningful prayer experiences for our community, and will have a foundation in pastoral care. Specific qualifications include:
- Strong knowledge of Torah, Jewish traditions and Hebrew language
- Previous experience in Jewish education, with previous leadership experience preferred
- Shabbat and holiday service leading skills, ability to balance traditional nusah with innovative approaches and communal singing
- Creative and collaborative approach to Jewish learning
- Ability to deliver meaningful and relevant drashot
- Passion for fostering community engagement
- Commitment to Jewish practices including kashrut and Shabbat observance
- Engagement in ongoing professional development
- Emotional intelligence and empathy
- Ability to maintain confidentiality