Applications submitted through the Hillel International website will NOT be considered. To apply, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected].
Summary
Hillel at the University of South Carolina is seeking a dynamic, part-time Associate Director to lead the next chapter of Jewish campus life in Columbia, with the opportunity for this role to grow into a full-time position. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of Hillel’s mission and a genuine passion for community building, student engagement, leadership development, and connecting generations of Jewish life. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a growing Hillel and make a meaningful impact on Jewish students in South Carolina.
Reporting to the Engagement & Jewish Community Relations Director at the Columbia Jewish Federation, the Associate Director is responsible for executing engagement strategies, developing meaningful programming, cultivating leadership, and strengthening Hillel at USC’s position as a core part of Jewish life at USC and beyond.
This is a unique opportunity to work both on campus and in partnership with the broader Jewish community— collaborating with students, faculty, community partners, and a Federation-appointed Hillel Committee.
About the Role
The Associate Director will work closely with the USC Hillel Board to support the planning and execution of events, holidays, leadership development, and Jewish learning initiatives. This role serves as the connector between the USC campus and the Columbia Jewish community, helping Hillel act as a bridge to all that Federation offers—from early childhood programs to adult learning to senior engagement. The Associate Director will also:
- Collaborate with the USC Jewish Studies Department to develop academic and cultural programming
- Participate in the USC Interfaith Council and serve as a Jewish voice in campus-wide conversations on diversity and inclusion
- Contribute to intergenerational programs, such as Shalom Baby, Rendezvous Lounge, and senior outreach, helping to connect students with wider Federation efforts
- Support the development of resources by assisting with grant writing, donor cultivation, and solicitation efforts in coordination with Federation and Hillel leadership
This position includes professional development opportunities and access to Hillel International’s robust training network. The Associate Director will also provide regular reports to the Columbia Jewish Federation Board to ensure alignment with communal goals.
Key Responsibilities
Student Engagement & Leadership
- Build meaningful, one-on-one relationships with Jewish students of all backgrounds
- Mentor and support student leaders and interns
- Empower students to create Jewish programs reflecting their interests and values
Jewish Holidays & Program Planning
- Design and lead inclusive, relevant celebrations for Jewish holidays throughout the year
- Manage logistics for programs: food, space, materials, guest speakers, and communication
- Collaborate with student leaders and board members on vision and strategy
Campus & Community Relations
- Represent Hillel in campus spaces including the Interfaith Council and DEI initiatives
- Build strong partnerships with USC departments, Jewish Studies, and local Jewish institutions
- Collaborate on community-wide programs and events through Columbia Jewish Federation
Development & Administration
- Support donor engagement and solicitation efforts with Federation staff and board
- Identify and assist with relevant grant opportunities to support Hillel programming
- Contribute to communications via social media, newsletters, and promotional materials
- Track engagement data and help assess impact
- Attend and present at Hillel Board and Federation Board meetings
- Work with a Federation-appointed Hillel Committee to support planning and growth
Intergenerational Engagement
- Support Federation-wide initiatives that connect students to Jewish life across generations
- Help implement programs for families (e.g., Shalom Baby), young adults, and seniors
- Collaborate with Federation staff to ensure Hillel remains a central connector in the community
What We’re Looking For
- 1–3 years of experience in Jewish education, student engagement, or related fields
- Strong understanding of Jewish traditions, values, and pluralism
- Excellent communication, organization, and follow-through skills
- Enthusiastic about working across generations and settings
- Comfortable with technology and social media (Google Suite, Canva, etc.)
- Bachelor’s degree required; Jewish Studies or nonprofit management preferred
Compensation Package
- Competitive salary based on regional nonprofit benchmarks
- $25,000–$30,000 annual salary depending on experience
- Benefits include professional development support, and paid time off
- Position is currently listed as part-time, with opportunity to expand to full-time for the right candidate
The Columbia Jewish Federation is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds committed to pluralistic and inclusive Jewish community-building.
To Apply
Send your resume and a brief cover letter to: [email protected]
Applications submitted through the Hillel International website will NOT be considered. To apply, please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected].
About Hillel International
In 1923, Rabbi Benjamin Frankel started Hillel with humble means, a noble mission and a breathtaking vision: to convey Jewish civilization to a new generation. Today, Hillel International continues to enrich the lives of Jewish students and is the largest Jewish campus organization in the world at nearly 1,000 colleges and universities across North America and around the world. As Hillel evolves as an organization, the mission remains steadfast: to create lasting connections with every Jewish student that foster an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel and train them to become the next Jewish leaders.
Hillel is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an accepting and inclusive environment for all.