Synagogue Director

Synagogue Director – Congregation Etz Hayim (Arlington, VA)

Congregation Etz Hayim (CEH), a warm and welcoming Conservative synagogue of ~150 member households, is seeking a Synagogue Director who will play a central role in the daily life of our community. He/she serves as CEH’s administrative and operational leader—overseeing staff, supporting programs, managing finances, and ensuring our building is welcoming and well-maintained. This is a meaningful hands-on, relationship-centered leadership role working closely with our beloved Rabbi, Board, staff, and volunteers to keep our synagogue running smoothly, thoughtfully, and with heart.

We’re looking for someone who brings strong organizational and management skills, enjoys building connections, and thrives in a role that blends strategic thinking with day-to-day operations. If you love helping communities flourish, this position offers meaningful work, supportive partners, and the chance to make a real impact.

What You’ll Do

Leadership: Serve as a visible, approachable presence in synagogue life— supporting congregants, volunteers, and staff with warmth and professionalism. Supervise and support our professional team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Partner with the Rabbi and the Board on strategic priorities, policies, and community initiatives.

Operations: Oversee daily operations, office systems, and synagogue calendar coordination. Ensure our building is safe, welcoming and well-maintained by overseeing maintenance, security protocols, vendor relationships, and facility scheduling.

Finance and Admin: Manage budgeting, financial processes, billing and payroll, and administrative workflows. Identify opportunities to improve systems, streamline processes, and enhance the overall experience of CEH members and visitors.

Member Engagement and Communications: Strengthen membership engagement and help shape programs, lifecycle events, and holiday experiences. Lead communications and marketing efforts, ensuring clear, consistent, and engaging messaging across newsletters, email, website, and social media. etzhayim.net

What You Bring

Experience in nonprofit or Jewish communal leadership, including staff supervision. Strong organizational, financial, and project management skills (knowledge of ShulCloud a plus). Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A collaborative spirit and a warm, welcoming presence with a commitment to fostering an inclusive Jewish community. Comfort balancing big-picture planning with hands-on management in an dynamic environment.

Hours and Benefits

This is a full-time weekday role with some flexibility in hours. Occasional evening or weekend meetings or events. CEH offers a benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, paid vacation and holidays (Jewish and secular), professional development budget, synagogue membership, school tuition discount, and flexible schedule.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: In person