Program Associate

Position Summary

Washington Hebrew Congregation (WHC) is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and collaborative Program Associate to support the planning, coordination, and execution of congregational programs, social justice initiatives, special events, and facility rentals. This position plays an integral role in creating meaningful experiences for members and guests while ensuring seamless logistical coordination across departments.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional project manager who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working with diverse stakeholders, and is passionate about Jewish communal life in a Reform/liberal setting.

Key Responsibilities

Social Justice Programs

Serve as the primary staff liaison for WHC’s major service initiatives, including Sunday Stuffing, Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, and Mitzvah Day.
Partner with the Social Action Coordinator to cultivate and maintain relationships with nonprofit organizations and community partners.
Coordinate all aspects of these events, including project planning, volunteer recruitment, supply procurement, logistics, and donation collection and delivery.
Event Catering & Hospitality

Coordinate catering and food procurement for worship services, educational programs, meetings, and special events.
Develop menus and manage food budgets while balancing revenue and expenses.
Collaborate with the Facilities Department to coordinate deliveries, room setups, and on-site food service as needed.
Calendar & Event Logistics

Partner with the Director of Programming to maintain the congregation’s master calendar, ensuring event information is current and accurate.
Serve as a liaison among clergy, senior staff, program leaders, and the Facilities Department to communicate event requirements, including room setups, audiovisual needs, staffing, catering, floor plans, and supplies.
Congregational Programming

Assist the Director of Programming in planning and executing major congregational events, including holiday celebrations, concerts, speakers, and other signature programs.
Coordinate High Holy Day logistics across multiple departments, including staff and volunteer assignments.
Provide on-site administrative support for large-scale congregational events, receptions, and private functions.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required.
One to three years of relevant professional or internship experience, preferably within a synagogue, Jewish communal organization, nonprofit, or event management setting.
Experience with venue rentals or hospitality operations is a plus but not required.
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Excellent project management, planning, and time management skills.
Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
Self-motivated, resourceful, and able to work independently while collaborating effectively with colleagues, volunteers, vendors, and community partners.
Familiarity with Reform/Liberal Judaism, Israel, and the broader Jewish community, including an understanding of contemporary issues impacting Jewish life.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and comfort learning and using new technologies and software platforms.
Availability to work evenings and weekends as required to support programs and events.

What You’ll Bring

The successful candidate is a proactive, service-oriented professional who enjoys bringing people together through meaningful programs and events. They are equally comfortable coordinating behind-the-scenes logistics, managing relationships with volunteers and vendors, and providing excellent customer service to members, guests, and community partners. They take pride in creating welcoming, well-executed experiences that reflect Washington Hebrew Congregation’s mission and values.