Administrative Assistant

Organization: Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation
Reports to: Executive Director
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Location: Bethesda, MD (On-site position, occasinal opportunity for remote work)
Salary: $45,000 - $55,000

About Adat Shalom

Adat Shalom is a vibrant 400-family Reconstructionist synagogue in Bethesda, MD, committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming community. As both a community and workplace, we are dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion values. We are a small, collaborative staff that works both independently and as a team, always striving to improve workflow and streamline communication.

About This Role

We are seeking an energetic Administrative Assistant who is a self-starter with excellent organizational skills and big-picture thinking. You'll be the first line of contact for many people and play a crucial role in helping our congregation operate smoothly. This position is perfect for someone who enjoys interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds and is interested in Jewish communal life.

Work Environment: Primary work location is 7727 Persimmon Tree Lane, Bethesda, MD, with limited remote work options. Regular business hours with occasional evenings, weekends, and Jewish holidays (comp time provided).

Key Responsibilities

Communications & Member Engagement

• Create and send e-newsletters through MailChimp, tracking and enhancing engagement
• Maintain website with current information and connect to social media channels
• Answer synagogue telephones and direct calls to appropriate staff members

Database & Member Services

• Work with Executive Director to maintain membership database (Breeze Church Management)
• Oversee new member onboarding, billing, and support processes
• Provide administrative support for synagogue fundraising and development efforts

Operations & Event Support

• Maintain synagogue calendar and coordinate scheduling
• Manage outside rentals and facilities needs
• Arrange catering for synagogue events
• Maintain supplies for synagogue programming and office functions

Administrative Support

• Create meeting agendas and take notes at staff and committee meetings
• Provide general administrative support across all synagogue functions
• Handle various projects as needed to support congregation operations

Required Qualifications

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google Suite
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, communication, and writing skills
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and proofreading abilities
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and work proactively
• Comfortable working with diverse groups and in a collaborative environment
• Understanding of or willingness to learn about Judaism and Jewish culture

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related field (not required for exceptional candidates)
• Experience with CRM systems, particularly church/synagogue management software
• Previous experience in administrative roles, especially in non-profit or religious settings
• Experience with MailChimp or similar email marketing platforms

Personal Qualities We Value

• Self-Starter: Takes initiative and works independently when needed
• Collaborative: Enjoys working as part of a small, close-knit team
• Adaptable: Can pivot quickly and handle multiple priorities
• People-Oriented: Genuinely enjoys interacting with congregants and community members
• Detail-Focused: Maintains high standards for accuracy and organization

We Offer

• Health insurance (85% employee premium paid by employer after 30-day waiting period through CareFirst)
• Paid time off
• Short and long-term disability and life insurance
• 403(b) retirement savings with employer contributions after one full year
• Full synagogue membership benefits
• Early office closure on Fridays
• Supportive, inclusive work environment committed to DEI values

Our Commitment to Inclusion

While identifying as Jewish is not necessary, an understanding of Judaism and Jewish culture is very helpful. Adat Shalom does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, or religion when hiring. We especially encourage applications from LGBTQ+, Black, Latinx, and people with disabilities. We acknowledge there is no perfect candidate and encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every requirement listed.

How to Apply

Please email your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. In your cover letter, please describe your interest in Jewish communal life and relevant administrative experience.

Application Status: Position remains open until filled, resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Adat Shalom is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community and workforce.