Director of Youth Engagement

Director of Youth Engagement

About Beth El: We are a dynamic Jewish community that inspires members of all ages to embrace Torah, Avodah, and Gemilut Chesed. We are a Conservative, Egalitarian synagogue committed to a culture that believes in work-life balance. Our professional team works collaboratively and supports one another in a positive work environment.

Position Overview: The Director of Youth Engagement primarily focuses on building and implementing engaging programming for 5th-12th grade youth, as well as creating meaningful opportunities for young people and their families to explore their Judaism and connect with the Beth El community in developmentally appropriate ways. 

Core Responsibilities: 

Youth Programming (K-12th Grade) 

• Design and implement meaningful, age-appropriate Jewish programming for synagogue youth
• Oversee Kadima and USY youth group at the synagogue level, and encourage participation in local, regional, and national programming
• Lead and collaborate on existing teen programming to enhance educational experiences
• Oversee BESTY (Beth El's Shabbat morning program for Grades K-4)
• Collaborate closely with the B’ Mitzvah Director to ensure seamless transitions and support for students and to partner on programming for 5^th-12^th Grades

Team Leadership 

• Recruit, train, and mentor a team of youth advisors and Shabbat morning staff
• Provide ongoing supervision and professional development for staff

Community Building & Communication 

• Develop effective marketing strategies to engage youth and families
• Maintain regular communication with families and the broader congregation
• Support programming for Young Adults as community needs arise

Leadership Development 

• Mentor youth through their teenage years to develop future Jewish leaders
• Empower the USY board to lead the chapter
• Cultivate youth leadership opportunities within and beyond the Jewish community

Administrative Oversight 

• Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop and manage program budgets
• Support fundraising efforts and grant applications relevant to youth programs
• Ensure programs have proper resources for success

Reports to: Managing Director 

Qualifications & Skills: 

Required Experience 

• 3-4 years working with youth in Jewish educational settings (school, camp, synagogue)
• 2+ years in leadership or managerial capacity
• Demonstrated success in program development and implementation

Essential Skills 

• Strong team management abilities: hiring, mentoring, coaching, and staff development
• Expertise working with middle and high school-aged youth
• Ability to develop age-appropriate curriculum and programming
• Experience supporting children with special needs and mental health challenges
• Understanding of child safety regulations and youth engagement best practices

Jewish Knowledge & Values 

• Serves as a role model of personal engagement in Jewish living
• Strong knowledge of Jewish traditions, holidays, and lifecycle events
• Commitment to Jewish values and community building

Professional Attributes 

• High energy, self-starter with creative problem-solving abilities
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong collaboration skills, particularly for work with B' Mitzvah Director, Clergy, and other educational staff
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant technology platforms

Work Environment & Benefits: 

• Full-time, exempt position requiring some evenings, weekends, and occasional travel
• We value work/life balance and strive to create a supportive schedule that accommodates personal needs while meeting programming demands
• Competitive salary range: $52,500-$62,500 (depending on experience)
• Generous paid time off
• Employer-subsidized medical/dental/vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement account with employer match

To Apply: Please apply on our website at Besyn.org.