Communications and Engagement Coordinator/Director

Job Title: Communications and Engagement Coordinator/Director
Location: Bethesda Jewish Congregation, Bethesda, MD
Position Type: Part-time, Exempt, 25 hours weekly

Benefits: $40,000-47,000 annually, based on experience, paid monthly; PTO; Synagogue Membership

Position Overview:

Bethesda Jewish Congregation (BJC) is seeking an enthusiastic and versatile Communications and Engagement Coordinator/Director to join our team (title and salary commensurate with experience). This individual will serve as a central figure in building a vibrant, inclusive, and engaged community through effective communication and strategic programming. The ideal candidate will possess strong event management skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep commitment to fostering connections within the congregation. You will be responsible for creating content, planning events, managing outreach and recruitment efforts, and ensuring member retention by developing meaningful community engagement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Event Planning and Coordination

• Plan and execute events that are integral to the congregation's life, including the programming around Shabbat services and Jewish holidays, plus other community gatherings.
  Coordinate large and small-scale events from conception to completion, including logistics and volunteer management.
• Collaborate with clergy, lay leaders, and community members to design programs that resonate with a diverse congregation and meet community members’ evolving needs.
• Ensure that all events are welcoming, inclusive, and well-promoted to maximize participation and foster community spirit.

2. Recruitment and Retention

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract new members, including outreach efforts to individuals and families in the local area.
• Identify and create new programs and initiatives that appeal to various demographics, fostering a sense of belonging within the congregation.
• Partner with other community organizations and Jewish institutions to create joint programming that expands BJC’s reach and visibility.
• Build and maintain relationships with prospective members through personal outreach, events, and communications.

• Create and implement retention strategies to ensure members feel engaged and valued, focusing on both larger community-building programs and smaller, more intimate gatherings.
• Design programs that cater to diverse community needs, such as small group discussions, social events, educational workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
• Foster connections between members to ensure ongoing participation and a sense of belonging.
• Gather and analyze feedback to refine engagement strategies and increase participation in congregation activities.

3. Communications and Content Creation

• Write and send weekly email communications to the congregation, including event reminders, updates, and inspirational messages.
• Create and distribute the monthly online newsletter, showcasing upcoming events, highlights from the congregation, and community news.
• Maintain and update the congregation’s website to ensure that all event details, resources, calendars, and member information are current and accessible.
• Manage social media accounts, posting regularly to engage the broader community, promote events, and share relevant content.
• Develop compelling content that reflects BJC's values and mission, ensuring consistency and professionalism across all communication channels.

4. Collaboration with Lay Leaders

• Work closely with lay leaders and committees, empowering them when appropriate while also taking initiative and leading projects when necessary.
• Provide support and guidance to volunteers and lay leaders as they implement programs and engage the community.
• Attend monthly board meetings.

Qualifications:

• Experience:
  
  
• At least 2-3 years of experience in event planning, community engagement, or communications, ideally within a nonprofit setting.
• Strong background in email communication, website management, and social media strategies.
• Proven ability to design and implement engagement programs that foster community and promote retention.
  
  
• Skills:
  
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
• Strong event management skills, with the ability to plan and execute a variety of events, both large and small.
• Proficiency with email marketing platforms, website management (WordPress or similar), and social media tools (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).
• Ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse groups, including clergy, lay leaders, and community members.
• Basic graphic design skills or the ability to use design tools (Canva, Adobe, etc.) is a plus.
• Comfortable working with technology, including online platforms for virtual events and meetings.
• Ability to work independently and multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that each initiative is completed on time and to a high standard.
• Capability to pay attention to detail in all aspects of event planning, communications, and community engagement, ensuring consistency and quality in every interaction and deliverable.
  
  
• Attributes:
  
  
• A deep commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for all members.
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
• Creative and innovative, with a passion for community engagement and problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills, with keen attention to detail and follow-through.
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions, holidays, and customs

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and passion for community engagement to [email protected]. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

Bethesda Jewish Congregation is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace.

About Bethesda Jewish Congregation:

Bethesda Jewish Congregation (BJC) is a warm, inclusive, vibrant, and liberal Jewish community whose members engage in a wide spectrum of Jewish practice. BJC takes a trans-denominational approach to Jewish worship that emphasizes learning, and connection. We are committed to creating a meaningful and supportive environment for all members, nurturing spiritual growth and building a lasting sense of community and to provide an open and welcoming space where individuals and families can connect to Jewish tradition, spirituality, and each other.