Programs and Engagement Manager

ABOUT SHA’AR ZAHAV

Founded in 1977, Sha’ar Zahav is San Francisco’s only LGBTQIA+ synagogue. We embrace a diversity of individuals of all sexualities, genders, races, and abilities. Our 400-household congregation includes single members and interfaith, single-parent, and multicultural families. Lay leaders are actively involved in most areas of congregational life: ritual practices, programs, social justice, finance and fundraising, and governance. Read more about us on our website: https://shaarzahav.org/

THE PROGRAMS & ENGAGEMENT MANAGER POSITION

Overview

The Programs & Engagement Manager works in close partnership with the Executive Director, clergy, and lay leadership to cultivate a vibrant, inclusive, accessible, and well-organized communal life. This dynamic role carries primary responsibility for planning and managing major holidays and celebrations, programs, and events across in-person, online, and hybrid formats; and for driving new member recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing engagement and retention.

As a key bridge between staff and volunteers, the Manager supports our committees and chavurot (interest/affinity groups), ensuring that programs align with SZ’s mission and capacity. This position requires an energetic relationship-builder with strong organizational, communication, and event design and management skills, combined with a high degree of creativity, initiative, and flexibility.

Team Structure and Reporting

The Programs & Engagement Manager reports directly to the Executive Director and is part of an administrative and management team that also includes an Administration & Communications Manager and a Facilities Technician. Our education team includes a part-time Education Director and part-time Special Projects Director. Our clergy leadership consists of a Rabbi and a part-time Cantor.

Required Experience and Skills

Experience managing complex organizational calendars, event logistics, and project plans.
A natural aptitude for relationship-building, paired with experience in personal outreach, welcoming newcomers, and building authentic, long-term relationships with community members.
Proficiency with Zoom and experience supporting the technical systems, tools, and processes required to ensure online and hybrid events are seamless and effective. Familiarity with physical audio-visual systems is a plus.
Facility with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and basic office software at a managerial level. Familiarity with member management systems and basic graphic design software is a plus.

Primary Responsibilities

Program & Calendar Management

Oversee synagogue-wide program calendar
Coordinate with clergy on holidays and lifecycle events
Plan and manage major holidays and programs (High Holy Days, Passover, Purim, Hanukkah, LGBTQ+ Pride, etc.)
Support programs, classes, and other events led by committees and havurot (interest/affinity groups)
Support Shabbat oneg (festive reception) and coordinate event volunteers
Support and enhance the use of technology systems, tools, and processes for in-person, online, and hybrid events
Ensure programs align with mission and capacity
Evaluate program participation and impact across both in-person and remote audiences
Membership & Community Engagement

Recruit new members
Onboard and integrate new members
Retain and re-engage existing members
Build relationships with congregants
Respond to member questions and concerns