Interim Director of Youth Programming

INTRODUCTION

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for youth? We’re seeking a dynamic program leader and community builder who can design engaging and impactful experiences for children and youth.

Kehillat Beth Israel (KBI) is a conservative Jewish synagogue serving over 500 families in Canada’s capital city of Ottawa, Ontario. KBI fosters deep connections between its members, Jewish tradition, and Jewish communities around the world, including Israel, and strives to be a place where everyone feels welcome, regardless of background, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ability.

OVERVIEW

This is an interim position until June 30, 2026, with possibility of extension.

The Director of Youth Programming (“the Director”) serves as the lead coordinator for all programming and engagement for children and youth. Reporting to Cantor Green and President of KBI Board (or their designee), the Director collaborates closely with clergy, staff, lay leaders, and families to deliver a wide range of dynamic programs to build strong, lasting Jewish identities and a love of Israel.

AUTHORITY

Plan, implement, and actively participate in monthly programming for young families (children under 6), Chaverim (grades 1-5), Gesher (grades 6-8), and USY (grades 9-12) cohorts, including weekly Shabbat morning programming (10 : 00-12 : 00), Jewish holidays, and social activities (within and outside the shul).

Send regular communication to parents and teens to advertise / promote events.

Serve as lead staff liaison to the Youth Committee and KBI Board of Directors.

Submit monthly reports to the KBI Board.

Collaborate with KBI’s interim Ottawa Talmud Torah (OTT@KBI) Director to develop / implement special holiday programming (i.e. Purim, Passover).

Coordinate with the Executive Director on administrative functions and budgets.

Partner with clergy and others in the synagogue to ensure integration of youth and family programming into broader synagogue life.

Serve as a role model for Jewish living and community involvement.

Estimated time commitment is 15 hrs / week, or roughly 60 hrs / month, at a rate of $30-$40 / hour, depending on experience.

LOCATION

This position is based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Regular in-person presence is required for Shabbat, holidays, and youth programming.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Functional Experience

Jewish leadership in a synagogue, school, or camp setting

Experience planning and implementing age-appropriate programming

Strong knowledge of Jewish values, traditions, and customs

Hebrew proficiency an asset

Career Experience

Minimum 1-3 years in Jewish community work

Experience collaborating with staff and / or volunteers

Strong interpersonal skills to build trusted relationships with children, families, and colleagues

A collegial and adaptable leader with emotional intelligence and creativity

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

All interested candidates are asked to please email their resume and cover letter to Yaron Starosta at execdir@kehillatbethisrael.com by Thursday, January 15, 2026.

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