Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator at North Carolina Hillel

The Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator at North Carolina Hillel plays a crucial role in enriching the Jewish student experience across multiple campuses. They are responsible for piloting new educational initiatives, creating opportunities for Jewish learning, serving as a thought leader, and fostering a culture of Jewish pluralism. Additionally, they act as a pastoral presence, build community partnerships, and engage students in various settings to deepen their connection to Jewish life.

To qualify for the Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator position at North Carolina Hillel, candidates must possess rabbinic ordination from an accredited institution, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to pluralism. Experience in community outreach, program development, and effective communication is essential. The role also requires flexibility in scheduling, including the willingness to work nights and weekends when necessary.

The Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator engages with students at North Carolina Hillel by creating imaginative learning spaces and facilitating both formal and informal educational opportunities. They empower students to lead by embracing a student-led, staff-supported ethos and fostering personal Jewish practices within a diverse community. This engagement also includes being a visible role model and addressing the unique needs of students through innovative rituals and programs.

In the role of Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator at North Carolina Hillel, building relationships with identity, culture, and faith-based groups is a priority. This includes collaborating with other clergy and rabbinic leaders in the state, representing North Carolina Hillel at community events, and creating a student Interfaith Fellowship Program. These partnerships are essential for fostering a comprehensive and pluralistic Jewish community across the campuses.

The Rabbi & Senior Jewish Educator at North Carolina Hillel can expect a competitive salary ranging from $90,000 to $110,000, alongside a comprehensive benefits package. This includes health insurance, retirement plans, generous vacation and sick time, and professional development opportunities. The role also offers the chance for travel both nationally and to Israel, providing enriching experiences that contribute to the overall mission.

When answering this question, emphasize your vision for creating inclusive and engaged Jewish learning experiences. Discuss how you plan to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, implement innovative programs, and foster a sense of community within Hillel’s pluralistic environment.

Prepare to share specific details about an initiative you designed or implemented, focusing on the planning, execution, and outcomes. Highlight the skills you utilized, the impact on participants, and any feedback or metrics that demonstrate its success.

Discuss strategies for outreach and engagement with various student populations. Highlight your commitment to inclusivity and pluralism, and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with different cultural or faith-based organizations in the past.

Share your ideas on employing various mediums—such as online platforms, social media, and interactive workshops—to integrate traditional Jewish learning with contemporary methods. Discuss how embracing technology can resonate with students and enhance their learning experiences.

Express your understanding of the importance of Jewish pluralism and how creating an open, respectful atmosphere can facilitate dialogue. Provide an example of a time you successfully navigated differing opinions and fostered a deeper understanding among participants.

Share specific examples of programs or mentorship experiences you've led that empowered students to develop their leadership skills. Discuss how you foster independence in student leaders while providing necessary guidance and support.

Outline how you would provide a safe and supportive environment for students to discuss their Jewish identity. Mention your approach to facilitating meaningful conversations, resources you might provide, and how you would ultimately encourage them in their personal Jewish journeys.

Provide a specific example of an educational program where you recognized a need for adaptation. Discuss the feedback process you utilized, the changes you implemented, and the resulting impact on student engagement and learning.

Discuss your perspective on being both a spiritual leader and a community builder. Emphasize the importance of connecting with students on their terms, providing guidance, and facilitating a welcoming environment that values diverse Jewish expressions.

Address your strategy for creating partnerships with student organizations, including open communication, understanding their needs, and co-developing events or initiatives. Sharing your eagerness to support student autonomy will also showcase your commitment to mentorship.