Assistant Director of Youth Engagement & Education
Pasadena, California

We are seeking applications from experienced professionals who are passionate about Judaism and Jewish learning to join us as our new Assistant Director of Youth Engagement and Education beginning on or about August 1st.

This new position, supervised by our Director of Congregational Engagement, synergizes teen engagement and leadership development. The position will focus on:
*Day-to-day operations of the Youth Department, which consists of our USY (United Synagogue Youth, 9th-12th grades), Jr. USY (6th-8th), and Kadima (3rd-5th) youth groups.
*The development of teen leaders through USY Board and religious school Madrichim (teaching assistants).
*Classroom teaching for Kitah Zayin (7th grade) in our Louis B. Silver Religious School, to help each child in making the transition from the formal learning in religious school to being an active post-B’nai Mitzvah member of the PJTC community.

This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to make a difference in the Jewish community. We are open to applicants who have deep ties to a Jewish sleepaway camp as this position does not require a significant time commitment over the summer. While there are several programmatic requirements to be fulfilled, this job can and should be tailored to the skills, talents, and interests of the applicant.

The ideal candidate demonstrates:
*Strong collaboration and leadership skills; is a captivating communicator with an innovative mindset, and a positive contributor who forms meaningful relationships with our children, families, and other community members.
*Strong Jewish background with enthusiasm, energy and love of Judaism. Preference for or willing to become fluent with Conservative liturgy and nusach (melodies), especially the Friday evening and Saturday morning services
*At least 3 years experience in youth work, preferably in both youth group and classroom settings.
Experience in intergenerational group facilitation.
*Basic familiarity with youth issues such as suicide, substance abuse, sexuality, family problems, and the like.
*Confidence and eloquence when communicating with parents and community members.
*Comfort with technology, including but not limited to social media, Excel/Google docs/Powerpoint, and facilitating a virtual classroom/meeting space when necessary.
*Creativity and enthusiasm when executing lesson plans, developing and executing family programs and professional development for teens.
*Bachelor’s degree in any field; Master’s degree welcome.
This position includes some evening and weekend hours as well as regular office hours. It requires occasional holiday programming and attendance, as well as attendance at B’nai Mitzvah services. Reliable transportation is necessary as the synagogue is not easily accessible via public transportation.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
*Direct Kadima, Jr USY, and USY programming in accordance with Jewish traditions, values and halacha (Shabbat observance, kashrut, etc.), focusing on building youth relationships with each other and Judaism, and fostering a safe and encouraging environment for diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.
*With USY Board: plan, publicize, and supervise two to three programs per month per age group (or combined programming when appropriate), including regional and inter-chapter events; attend regional and inter-chapter events
*Database management: membership lists with contact info and signed emergency forms; program evaluations and attendance lists; income and expenses.
*Provide pastoral-style counseling and leadership development for teens: keep up with their goals, achievements and challenges, log notes in ShulCloud to keep track of conversations, following up with clergy as appropriate.
*Communications: Manage external communications to parents and youth via email, social media, etc; publicize events and successes on synagogue-wide platforms, including the Flame and monthly board reports
*Sunday morning, Tuesday afternoon teaching in the Kitah Zayin classroom during the academic year. Using ShalomLearning Judaica curriculum; Torah Aura Hebrew curriculum (lesson plans already written, however we welcome the ideal candidate to bring their own experience and creativity to their lessons). Prepare students for t’fillot as part of their B’nai Mitzvah preparation; ensure class participation in USY-led services.
*Oversee Madrichim (teaching assistant) program, including the application and interview process, professional development, liaising between madrichim and teachers to ensure effective classroom empowerment, and supervising teens working as assistants in your own classroom.
*Ensure family and class bonding during the B’nai Mitzvah year by leading 2-4 family workshops, attending Friday evening and Saturday morning Shabbat services for B’nai Mitzvah students, overseeing mitzvah projects for each B’nai Mitzvah student, and introducing students to their torah portion before their first meeting with the Senior Rabbi (handouts provided).

Salary is $50,000-$60,000 based on a candidate’s education and experience. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and membership to professional organizations.

Founded in 1921, Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center is an open-minded, inclusive, and intergenerational Jewish community, working together to share and promote Jewish tradition and values in our lives, in our homes, in our community and in the world. While our synagogue is affiliated with the Conservative movement, our members represent a wide variety of religious beliefs and practices within Judaism. We welcome all who walk through our doors seeking a Jewish home to pray, to learn, to connect, and to celebrate. www.pjtc.net.

To apply please send your cover letter and resume to Director of Congregational Engagement Melissa Levy by June 7, 2021.