Manager of Shinshinim Program

Jewish United Fund•Chicago, IL

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

This position operates as part of the JUF Teens Department of JUF’s Community, Outreach and Engagement division, supporting its efforts to engage teens in a variety of programs. The Manager of Shinshinim Program will manage and support all aspects of Chicago’s Shinshinim Program. Shinshinim are Israeli high school graduates serving Jewish communities around the world prior to their mandatory Israeli army service. In this role, you will serve as a mentor and advisor to the Shinshinim and will play a lead role in overseeing their training, work placement, program development, host family relationships, and cultural integration. Key responsibilities include coordinating activities of Shinshinim across multiple greater Chicago venues to help them get to know the Chicagoland community and meet their goals to enhance Israel education and cultural engagement. You will serve as the primary liaison between Shinshinim and host organizations, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication. You will also play a key role in supporting visiting student delegations from the partnership region.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, social work, Jewish studies, or related field.
4+ years’ professional experience, including developing and leading experiential education programs and mentoring Jewish teens.
Fluency in English and Hebrew
Understanding of and appreciation for Israeli culture, preferably including extended time in Israel, an understanding of Israeli history, politics and geography, and proficiency in the Hebrew language.
Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
Basic administrative and management skills, including budgeting and scheduling.
Comfort working a flexible schedule and availability to work nights and weekends, including travel during the year to a variety of conferences and trainings.

Responsibilities

Plan and manage all logistics related to Shinshinim training and work placement before their arrival and during their year in Chicago.
Support Shinshinim in creating and implementing educational programs about Israel for various community organizations and schools.
Provide pastoral care and guidance to Shinshinim, helping them adjust to local culture and manage their schedules.
Provide mentorship and guidance to Shinshinim.
Manage expectations and the ongoing relationship with local organizations, conduct site visits and regular check ins.
Conduct regular check-ins with Shinshinim, and with host families and families in Israel as needed.
Coordinate logistics for host family placements, transportation, work schedule and educational activities.
Participate in conference calls and professional development seminars with JAFI and other Shinshinim supervisors.
Support JUF programming involving visiting delegations of Israeli students and meet-ups with partnership region in coordination with Partnership staff in the Planning and Allocations Department.
Participate in weekly JUF Teens meetings and support relevant engagement activities.