Cantor/Chazzan

Congregation Beth El is seeking a clergy partner to co-lead our community in study, song and spiritual uplift. Our new hire will partner with our energetic Rabbi in a number of leadership and support roles. We expect that this person and the role will evolve together. Also open to a Rav/Chazzan background. The job description is somewhat flexible; these are the areas that we are particularly interested in addressing:
• Ritual Responsibilities: Lead innovative and meaningful participatory worship experiences. Recruit and train lay ritual leaders and ensure that Torah and haftarah readers are assigned for weekly services. Partner with the rabbi around special ritual events, including holidays and B’nai Mitzvah services. Collaborate with the rabbi on providing pastoral support to the congregation.
• Musical Direction: Supervise and direct all congregational music programs. Recruit, rehearse and lead singers/musicians for monthly musical Friday night Shabbat services. Musical instrument experience preferred.
• Education and Religious School Responsibilities: Design and participate in musical programming for the religious school community. Collaborate with the rabbi, education staff and Programming Committee to bring innovative experiences to the school.
• B’nai Mitzvah Program: Oversight of ritual preparation for B’nai Mitzvah students including instruction in Torah and haftarah chanting. Evaluate students to ensure that they are fully prepared. Teach adult B’nai Mitzvah students as needed.
Community Description:
The Tidewater area of Southeastern Virginia includes the cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Chesapeake and Suffolk. It is home to the world’s largest Naval base and beautiful waterways and beaches abound.
Qualifications:
The successful candidate will help to grow the congregation, by making it welcoming to young families while maintaining the spirit and rituals that are key to retaining long-time members. The applicant will exhibit qualities of empathy and understanding of people at all stages of life. The applicant will show excitement and a proven record of teaching a variety of ages and interest groups. Exhibit a desire to continually expand skills, knowledge and connection to Jewish texts, rituals and traditions. Be an enthusiastic member of a collaborative relationship with the Rabbi, the professional staff and the broader community.
Position Start Date: Immediately Salary Range: $95,000-115,000 annually (based on experience)