Musical Clergy or Music Director (FT)

Full Time Musical Clergy or Music Director 

Temple Aliyah, a vibrant egalitarian Conservative synagogue in Needham, Massachusetts, is seeking an energetic full-time musical clergy (Rabbi or Cantor) or music director to serve as part of our leadership team, complementing our new spiritual leader Rabbi Allison Poirier. We are looking for a dynamic, creative and collaborative individual, who can enhance the spiritual life of the Congregation through traditional and modern music and song. Come join us!

General Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with the Rabbi and professional staff in the daily life of the shul
• Lead engaging and participatory worship services on Shabbat and holidays 
• Integrate music in the religious school and other programming
• Chant Torah, Haftarah, and Megillot, as needed 
• Participate in life cycle events of congregants 
• Perform pastoral and life cycle duties and visits to the sick (preferred)

Specific duties include:

B’nai Mitzvah Program

• Tutor B’nai Mitzvah students to lead the service, including reciting/singing prayers and chanting Torah and Haftarah 
• With the Rabbi, ensure students are fully prepared for their B’nai Mitzvah
• Guide families through B’nai Mitzvah process
• Assess guest Torah readers

Musical Direction 

• Create and oversee congregational music programs
• Collaborate with the Rabbi to develop a musical vision for congregation
• Develop musical programming for youth and adults, including concerts, musical education, and choir
• Play guitar or other musical instrument (preferred)

Education

• Teach a variety of ages and interest groups 
• Offer one or two courses a year in our rich adult education program
• Engage actively in the religious school 
• Bring music into the preschool and other young family programming

Synagogue Leadership, Administration and Community Responsibilities 

• Work collaboratively with the Rabbi, synagogue staff and congregational leadership 
• Create and participate in community events and concerts (Jewish and interfaith)
• Engage with the local community beyond Temple Aliyah

Qualifications:

• Fluency in nusach and Conservative weekday, Shabbat, and holiday liturgy 
• Comfort with Torah, Haftarah, and Megillot trope
• Ability to sing and lead congregants in prayer with spirit and energy
• Ability to teach children and adults 
• Computer competency, including Microsoft Office, recording audio files, music notation software, and social media (preferred)
• Filled with ruach!

Application Process:

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and sample recordings or videos that reflect your musical skills to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.