Synagogue Administrator

Congregation Ramath Orah

Responsibilities:

We are seeking a part-time (20-30 hr/week) Administrator to manage the operations of CRO, including communications, financial, operations and facilities management, and programming support. Reporting to the (volunteer) President of the synagogue, the ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented person with strong interpersonal and project management skills, technology proficiency, and familiarity with Jewish traditions and terminology.

Key responsibilities include the following:

• Communications - In coordination with the President and Rabbi, direct all aspects of internal and external communications, including organizing, preparing, reviewing and disseminating a weekly synagogue newsletter, mailings, publicity for events, special publications, website, social media, advertising and e-mails. Coordinate communications with other community organizations. Manage the “front desk” as the “face” of the synagogue to membership, friends, and the broader community, overseeing daily communications. Forward all inquiries/requests to others as appropriate.
• Financial and membership management - Under the oversight of the Treasurer, perform financial-related duties such as basic bookkeeping, billing, recording and making deposits, collections and disbursements, and banking relationships. Provide support for fundraising initiatives and membership information management.
• Operations - Oversee operations of the congregation including synagogue facilities, information technology and communications systems, and security. Manage procurement of goods and services, and coordinate with all vendors and service providers. Monitor and maintain adequate and appropriate inventory of all kitchen, office and building supplies. Run errands as needed to post office, bank or other local establishments. Maintain and coordinate the various internal synagogue calendars (service times, congregational events, life cycle celebrations, room rentals, custodial staff schedule).
• Facilities - Oversee management of the facilities through supervision of custodial staff in setting up social hall for various events. Arrange for and monitor repair work as necessary. Supervise the use of the facility including use and access by outside renters caterers and other vendors.
• Programming support - Provide administrative and logistical support required by lay leaders and clergy for Shabbat, holidays, festivals, and life-cycle and other events, including organizing and implementing weekly Shabbat kiddushes, meals, special events and celebrations. Create emails, registration forms and flyers for events, track registration, etc. Coordinate arrangements for speakers, including communications and arranging for accommodations when necessary.
• Rentals and Congregational Events - Manage relationships with tenants and field requests for and schedule rentals. Set up agreements and payments, ensure policy adherence (security, kashrut, insurance, etc.) and provide logistical and customer support. Coordinate custodial schedule and room set-up with renter or event contact. Order food and supplies as required for internal events and oversee caterers, vendors, custodial staff, deliveries, security and special access as necessary.
• Other duties not listed - Provide administrative support for the President, Rabbi, and lay leaders as directed by the President.

Experience and Skills:

The ideal candidate will possess the following experience and skills:

• Detail oriented with excellent organizational and project management skills - Self-starter who can work independently, but also take direction when necessary, the ability to manage multiple priorities and navigate efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal abilities - An ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with a customer service orientation.
• Technology Proficiency - Proficient in all basic software such as MS Word, Excel, Quickbooks, Facebook, Google docs; knowledge of Shulcloud, a member management system, is a plus. An ability to troubleshoot IT issues and remedy minor ones.
• Team Player - Ability to assist clergy and lay leaders in meeting important deadlines while working collaboratively. Capable of managing other staff and outside vendors.
• Jewish familiarity - Understanding of the needs of the modern orthodox Jewish community. Knowledge of Jewish tradition and Hebrew language a strong plus.

About CRO:

Congregation Ramath Orah is a vibrant and warm and welcoming Modern Orthodox Synagogue in Morningside Heights, near Columbia University, with 150 membership units from a diverse array of backgrounds and demographics. Much of our programming is volunteer led with activities including youth programming, adult education and programs, kiddushes and meals, cultural and social events.

We currently have a weekday tenant renting out our social hall. Our social hall is also available for rental for events, meetings and parties and is the site of our weekly kiddushes and periodic community meals, as well as other planned events.

We enjoy a warm and supportive atmosphere as well as an attractive work schedule (closed on Jewish holidays and early closure on Fridays and holiday eves). The position requires being at the shul daily (M-F) for 20 to 30 hours per week. There is flexibility regarding the schedule, but we would like the coverage to adhere to a regular schedule. Additionally, there may be up to 2-3 hours of out of office work via email or phone checking during any week. Position reports to the President of the synagogue.

To apply for this position:

Interested and qualified applicants should please submit a cover letter and resume to president@ramathorah.org