Am Kolel Jewish Renewal Community of Greater Washington seeks an interim rabbi, cantor, or educator to serve as our Part Time Director of Judaic Life for our Jewish Renewal community based in Rockville, Maryland.
Am Kolel is an independent and inclusive Jewish Renewal community devoted to the revitalization of Jewish life by meeting unmet needs in the Jewish community and by responding to social issues with a progressive voice. Am Kolel was founded in 1990 by Rabbi David Shneyer, who received his semicha from the ALEPH Ordination Program. Currently, we have approximately 70 member households, while also serving individuals beyond our formal membership.
We are seeking an innovative creator of programming with strong managerial skills who will work closely with our founder and retiring director in fulfilling our commitment to building a community of purpose and dedication to social and ecological justice. Familiarity with the Washington, DC Jewish community is important.
The ideal candidate will be:
An individual whose depth of Jewish knowledge and experience can make Jewish life accessible to people of all backgrounds and ages
A strong community builder
Committed to social and ecological justice and advancing progressive Judaism
Skilled in interpersonal communication and social media engagement
A creative thinker who is also detail-oriented, organized, and successful at program development and execution
Someone with at least three years of prior experience in Jewish programming
Living in the Washington, DC area
Responsibilities include:
Helping create, plan, implement, and manage engaging programs and services for the community
Taking responsibility for all aspects of program execution, including preparation, on-site logistics, physical setup and cleanup, and follow-up
Helping plan and lead monthly Shabbat dinners followed by a program
Providing guidance for life cycle events, including advising individuals, couples, and families regarding their needs; counseling; and officiating at rites of passage when appropriate
Representing Am Kolel in the wider community, including leading programs or participating in events on behalf of Am Kolel when appropriate.
Engaging participants for Am Kolel programs and activities, taking responsibility for helping build attendance through personal outreach and marketing.
Building and maintaining a referral network of Judaic officiants
Developing introductory courses in Judaism
Leading the community in song and participatory worship
Developing social media and interpersonal outreach initiatives to support community programs and services
Location, Transportation, and Availability:
The Director of Judaic Life should be conveniently located to the Am Kolel Center. The role requires reliable transportation and the ability to be physically present for the full duration of community programs and events.
Salary and Benefits
$40,000 – $50,000 depending on experience
20 hours per week
Am Kolel provides a benefits package that includes medical benefits, generous paid time off (including Jewish holidays and some federal holidays), and a flexible working environment
Start Date: Summer 2026
To Apply send resume and coverletter to [email protected]
You may also contact Rabbi David Shneyer at 301-770-4648