Director of Teen Engagement
12 days ago
Minneapolis
Job Description 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 Teen Engagement focuses on building and implementing engaging programming specifically for 5th-12th grade youth, creating meaningful opportunities for teens and their families to explore their Judaism and connect with the Beth El community in developmentally appropriate ways. Core Responsibilities Teen Programming (5th-12th Grade) • Design and implement meaningful, age-appropriate Jewish programming for synagogue teens, • Oversee Kadima (middle school) and USY (high school) youth groups at the synagogue level, and encourage participation in local, regional, and national programming, • Lead and collaborate on existing teen programming to enhance educational experiences, • Develop innovative programming that speaks to contemporary teen interests while maintaining Jewish educational value, • Collaborate closely with the B'Mitzvah Director to ensure seamless transitions and support for students and to partner on programming for 5th-12th Grades Team Leadership • Recruit, train, and mentor a team of teen program advisors and staff, • Provide ongoing supervision and professional development for staff, • Build relationships with teen volunteers and student leaders Community Building & Communication • Develop effective marketing strategies to engage teens and families, • Maintain regular communication with families and the broader congregation, • Foster connections between teen participants and the wider synagogue community, • 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, • Create pathways for teen leadership within synagogue programming, • Cultivate youth leadership opportunities within and beyond the Jewish community, • Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop and manage program budgets, • Support fundraising efforts and grant applications relevant to teen programs, • Ensure programs have proper resources for success, • Maintain program records and track participant engagement 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 teen program development and implementation Essential Skills • Strong team management abilities: hiring, mentoring, coaching, and staff development, • Expertise working specifically with middle and high school-aged youth, • Ability to develop age-appropriate curriculum and programming for teenagers, • Experience supporting teens with special needs and mental health challenges, • Understanding of child safety regulations and teen engagement best practices, • Knowledge of adolescent development and contemporary teen culture 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, • Understanding of Conservative Jewish movement and youth programming 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, • Ability to connect authentically with teenagers and build trust, • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant technology platforms, • Social media savvy and understanding of digital engagement strategies Work Environment & Benefits • Part-time, non-exempt hourly position (20-25 hours per week) requiring some evenings, weekends, and occasional travel for regional teen programming, • We value work/life balance and strive to create a supportive schedule that accommodates personal needs while meeting programming demands, • Competitive hourly rate: $30-$35 per hour (depending on experience), • Pro-rated paid time off based on hours worked, • 403(b) retirement account with employer match (if eligible) How To Apply Send your cover letter and resume to Beth El is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.