Assistant Director

Position Summary:

The Assistant JSU Director is responsible for launching, growing, and deepening Jewish Student Union (JSU) programming across public and secular high schools. Through vibrant Jewish experiences, authentic mentorship, and strategic outreach, the Assistant JSU Director empowers Jewish teens to explore their identity, grow as leaders, and strengthen their connection to Jewish life.

This is a unique role that blends educational leadership and relational strategy. The ideal candidate is a dynamic Jewish educator, deeply passionate about teens, and energized by the challenge of building something lasting. JSU clubs serve as an entryway to Jewish identity and the JSU Assistant Director helps students engage with their heritage with confidence and curiosity. In this role, the JSU Assistant Director is expected to serve as a Jewish role model and lifelong learner, inspiring students through both personal example and meaningful content. They are also responsible for ensuring a safe, welcoming, and mission-aligned program environment, in accordance with OU/NCSY policies and values.

This is a full-time position. Some nights and weekends required. The candidate must live in New York City.

Responsibilities:

JSU Clubs & School Engagement

Launch, maintain, and lead 4 weekly JSU Clubs in Manhattan schools, ensuring at least 20 club sessions per year
Create dynamic, relevant Jewish content for clubs that sparks curiosity and discussion
Cultivate relationships with school administrators and faculty to support JSU’s presence and growth
Partner with JSU Global Campus and the Regional team to identify new schools for expansion

Student Engagement & Events:

Host 2 weekly evening events for Manhattan teens focused on engagement, Jewish learning, and personal connection
Run 1 monthly fun/social events to build community among club participants
Organize 1 monthly local Shabbat experiences to deepen Jewish connection outside the school setting
Actively mentor most engaged students, fostering individual religious and leadership growth

Long-Term Impact & Recruitment:

Recruit Manhattan area students for immersive Jewish experiences such as Shabbatons, NCSY Summer programs, especially TJJ, and gap year
Guide students in post-high school Jewish life, including Jewish campus engagement and gap-year Israel programs

Community, Fundraising & PR:

Build strong relationships with parents and alumni through consistent, personal communication
Support fundraising and “friendraising” initiatives that sustain and grow the impact of JSU
Promote JSU through local PR, social media, and outreach to increase visibility and community connection

Shabbatons & Regional Programs:

Recruit for and participate in local and regional Shabbatons and conventions
Collaborate with the Regional NCSY team to deliver meaningful, high-quality experiences for teens

Qualifications:

We’re looking for someone with:
Experience in teen programming and/or Jewish education (formal or informal)
A track record of being charismatic, organized, and flexible
Ability to build trust and connect with both teens and adults
A solid foundation in Jewish knowledge, including Halacha, Jewish thought, and tradition
The ability to confidently lead discussions and role model personal growth

Professional Expectations:

Serve as a role model, reflecting Jewish values and lifelong learning in your own growth
Attend and contribute to local and national staff trainings and meetings (weekly, monthly, and annually meetings vary by region)
Maintain a positive, solution-oriented attitude and work collaboratively with peers and supervisors
Uphold all OU/NCSY policies to ensure a safe, welcoming, and professional environment
Manage your programming and club budgets responsibly
Maintain accurate student data and engagement logs in NCSY’s systems