Employment Opportunities at Stephen Wise Temple and Wise School
About Stephen Wise Temple
Founded in 1964, Stephen Wise Temple is one of the largest Reform Jewish synagogues and schools in the world. The Wise community consists of a thriving congregation; Wise School (a top-tier K-6 elementary school and Early Childhood Center); Center for Youth Engagement (including Religious School, teen programming, and Camp Wise); weekly worship services; and hundreds of opportunities for deep learning, tikkun olam (social justice/helping those in need), and Jewish engagement throughout the year. With 1,600 member families and more than 170 regular employees, Wise is known for its extensive educational, spiritual, and musical programs designed for individuals, couples, and families at all stages of life.
The Wise campus is located on 19 beautiful acres atop the Mulholland Corridor of the Santa Monica Mountains and includes the state-of-the-art Katz Family Pavilion for athletic activities and diverse major events. The community founded by Rabbi Isaiah Zeldin is now led by Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback and a committed team of educators, administrators, and lay volunteers.
Wise makes meaning and changes the world.
To apply for an open position, please send your resume to [email protected]
Position/Title: CUSTODIAN
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Industry Category: Religious Organization / Education / Non-Profit
Organization: Stephen Wise Temple
Department: Facilities / Temple Staff
Reports to: Facilities Manager
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Hourly, Benefit Eligible
Schedule: Flexible; hours/days off may vary according to organizational needs, 30-min meal period.
ABOUT THE POSITION:
Responsible for keeping assigned building areas clean, sanitary, safe and orderly. Periodically does special cleaning, building maintenance for the Facilities Department. This position may occasionally work in a transportation related capacity.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Sweeps, mops, scrubs, waxes, and vacuums floors
- Raises and lowers flags
- Execute work orders as directed by supervisor
- Perform routine cleaning tasks
- Dusts, washes, and polishes furniture and woodwork
- Replenishes restroom supplies and fills dispensers
- Washes, scrubs, and disinfects restrooms and shower rooms
- Cleans and polishes metal work such as door panels and hand railings
- Washes chalkboards, windows, walls, sinks and fountains
- Moves, arranges, and sets up furniture and equipment for sporting events, special events and meetings
- Observes and reports the need for repairs and makes such minor repairs as time permits
- Secures all rooms and buildings at end of shift
- Picks up trash and litter, empties and cleans trash and garbage receptacles
- Does emergency clean-up resulting from vandalism, breakage, spilling or illness
- Stacks and stores furniture, equipment, and supplies
- Reports unruly student activities, loitering, vandalism, or similar situations
- Keeps walks, hallways, and stairs neat and clean
- Perform Traffic Control duties; drive shuttle when needed and if qualified.
- Replaces light bulbs and makes minor, non-technical maintenance repairs
- Reports inoperative security lights, safety, sanitary and fire hazards
- Assists Safety Coordinator with emergency drills and assists with traffic control
- Assists in the restoration of buildings and grounds during summer, winter, and spring vacations
- Reports rooms that repeatedly take excess time to properly maintain
- Works with other staff in setting up and operating public address system for assemblies, and promotion/graduation exercises
- Maintain situational awareness of safety and security issues at all times and report all breaches and safety issues to supervisor
- Assist with Emergency Drills
- Attend meetings, drills, and training as required
- Must wear the prescribed attire and always present a neat, professional appearance
- General landscape around campus
- Kitchen cleaning
- Cleaning and vacuum pool
- Monitor pool Water level
- As a key staff member in our religious educational institution, role-model the tenets of our faith on a daily basis to our members and the broader Temple community; participate in transmitting the expectations and values of our faith, playing a critical and essential role in the Temple’s ability to minister to the daily needs of our students and members.
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must have at least 2 years previous custodian experience
- Must be able to stand/walk for long periods of time
- Knowledge of proper cleaning techniques and how to utilize supplies and equipment
- Must be dependable, punctual, and have good attendance
- Must be able to take direction and complete assigned tasks
- Must be in good physical and mental health, able to lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs.
- Must be capable of becoming and remaining certified in first aid, CPR, and AED
- Must have valid driver’s license and three (3) years of driving experience with a good record.
Job description
Position/title: EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER
Job Location: Los Angeles, CA
Industry Category: Religious Organization / Education / Non-Profit
Reports to: Director of Early Childhood
Organization Name: Wise School
Department: Early Childhood Center
About the Position
The person selected for this position will be responsible for the general supervision and management of a class of preschool children.
Job Responsibilities
Responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to, the following:
Program:
· Planning and implementing a program that encourages the physical, social, and cognitive development of each child and that follows the policies and philosophy of the school.
· Utilizing all available resources to provide an educationally sound program, including field trips, resource people, creative themes, etc.
· Arranging a sound nutritional program.
· Adapting the program to the needs of the individual child with concern for his/her interests, special need, talents, and individual style and pace of learning.
· Arranging for an appropriate balance of quiet and active activities.
· As a key staff member in our religious educational institution, role-model the tenets of our faith on a daily basis to students and their families; participate in transmitting the expectations and values of our faith, playing a critical and essential role in the Temple’s ability to teach and minister to the daily needs of our students and members.
Relationships:
· Treating each child with dignity and respect.
· Working with other professional staff members to plan and implement activities that carry out the philosophy of the school and accepted early childhood education practices.
· Being respectful and cooperative as a member of a team of professionals.
· Helping each child to become aware of his/her role as an integral member of a group.
· Considering the individual child in relationship to his/her cultural and socio-economic background.
· Establishing a positive relationship with parents of the students.
Physical Environment:
· Maintaining a physical environment in the classroom that is inviting and conducive to learning and which lends itself to the teaching of developmentally appropriate activities.
· Being responsible for ensuring a classroom atmosphere that is conducive to learning, fun, and positive interaction between children
· Assuming an equal share of the joint housekeeping responsibilities of the nursery school staff.
· Providing a safe and healthy environment for each child.
Continuing Education:
· Attending all staff meetings, parent programs and orientations.
· Participating in recommended training programs, conferences courses, and other activities that ensure professional growth.
Record-keeping:
· Keeping records of evaluation for use in planning for individual needs of each child.
· Keeping accurate attendance records.
Minimum Qualifications
· College degree
· Certification in the field of Early Childhood Education highly preferred
· Excellent writing and communication skills
· Experience with ages 2-5 years
· Diplomatic, tactful, and possess the ability to show grace under pressure
· Strong interpersonal relationship building skills
· Strong organizational skills
· Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and dedication to the mission of Stephen Wise Temple and Wise Schools
· Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
· Physically able to perform the job of a preschool teacher – ability to bend, stoop and lift up to 35 pounds
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $28.00 – $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Education:
Associate (Preferred)
Experience:
Childcare: 2 years (Required)
License/Certification:
CPR Certification (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
About the Position
We are looking for someone who loves people, bringing people together, and helping people make meaningful connections, and also loves spreadsheets and data. The Engagement Coordinator works with a wide variety of staff and volunteer leaders across all ages and demographics, guiding them and encouraging them as they create programs and more. The Engagement Coordinator must have excellent administrative skills and also be approachable, personable, and sensitive in handling confidential information. Deeply meaningful work with a lot of fun and growth potential, the job will entail planning and staffing events and meetings, which sometimes take place on nights and weekends.
About You
- You are extroverted (or a people-oriented introvert) – willing and excited to connect with everyone you encounter
- You are a good listener – able to hear ideas and concerns without responding immediately, but filing away important information for future action
- You are detailed-oriented – sure to dot your i’s and cross your t’s and definitely not leave much to chance
- You are a planner – the person in your friend group/professional life who makes things happen, be it dinner reservations or a birthday party
- You are a true connector – you love to match people with one another to build community
- You love spreadsheets and data and using both to make informed decisions
- You are a CRM rockstar–you are thrilled to use the data and functions to help bring people together in the best ways
Responsibilities include:
- Clergy Engagement: Collaborate with the Chief Engagement Officer to identify and track opportunities for clergy development and relationship building. Facilitate personal cultivation efforts to strengthen connections within the community.
- Small Group Coordination: Organize and support initiatives that promote small group interactions, ensuring timely engagement and scheduling of clergy for significant community events and moments.
- Communication Management: Create, maintain, and regularly update lists for follow-up communication with congregants through phone calls, emails, and texts, addressing various outreach needs as determined by leadership.
- Member Engagement Analysis: Manage and conduct regular reviews of member engagement metrics using the Engagement Scale to identify growth opportunities and enhance participation.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Maintain a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities, both internally and externally, and connect congregants with suitable options to encourage active involvement.
- Data Management: Oversee member data management to ensure accurate and up-to-date records, facilitating effective communication and engagement strategies.
- Virtual Engagement Development: Collaborate with the Rabbinic Intern to create and maintain virtual engagement opportunities tailored for World Wise Access members, fostering inclusivity and participation.
- Committee Support: Assist in staffing the Ambassadors/Engagement Committee, promoting active member involvement in community initiatives.
- New Member Orientation: Lead initiatives to engage and welcome new members, ensuring they feel connected and informed within the community. Work closely with the Director of Membership to connect new members with existing opportunities on campus and people with similar interests.
Qualifications:
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail.
- College degree or equivalent work experience (1-3 years) preferred.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
- Experience in community engagement, volunteer coordination, or related fields preferred.
- Proficiency in data management and familiarity with engagement tracking tools.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a passion for building relationships within a community.
- Experience with Microsoft Suite, especially Excel and mail merge; comfort with Google Suite a plus.
- Knowledge of Jewish calendar and traditions a plus; or, a willingness to learn.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $23.00 – $27.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
The Senior Director of Early Childhood Education will work closely with Temple and School leadership to develop and implement policies, programs, and curricula that align with the overall mission of Stephen Wise Temple and its educational programs. This position reports directly to the Head of School.
About You
You are a visionary and strategic leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Highly organized and adaptable, you balance day-to-day operations with long-term institutional goals. You cultivate strong partnerships with staff, parents, and students, fostering a warm, inclusive, and engaged school community. You work seamlessly with admissions and marketing to drive enrollment and retention, while collaborating with parent organizations to enhance school culture.
Your leadership is highly visible, and you approach challenges with confidence, diplomacy, and consistency. You are both a big-picture thinker and an execution-focused leader who is passionate about early childhood education and committed to building a thriving, connected community. As the face of the Aaron Milken Center, you represent the school to the broader Temple and educational communities.
About Us
Now in our 61st year, Stephen Wise Temple is one of the largest Reform Jewish synagogues in the country, encompassing three schools. With 1,600 member families and more than 200 employees, Wise is known for its comprehensive educational, worship, and community engagement programs. We are a diverse and inclusive community that welcomes all who wish to make meaning and drive positive change.
Our 18-acre campus, located along the Mulholland Corridor in the Santa Monica Mountains, provides an inspiring environment for education and personal growth.
Essential Responsibilities & Leadership Skills
- Provide strategic leadership for the Aaron Milken Center’s early childhood, parenting center, and summer camp programs.
- Oversee curriculum development grounded in best practices in early childhood education, infused with Jewish values, and designed to foster a strong sense of Jewish identity and community.
- Lead enrollment efforts in collaboration with the admissions team to ensure maximum capacity.
- Work in partnership with Temple Senior Leadership to advance the mission and vision of Stephen Wise Temple.
- Serve as a key liaison to the Stephen Wise Temple Board and lay leadership.
- Direct and coordinate the Aaron Milken Center Advisory Committee, including identifying leadership members, setting strategic goals, and driving impactful initiatives.
- Build strategic partnerships with universities and research institutions to enhance early childhood education programming and faculty development.
- Identify and pursue grant opportunities to support curriculum innovation, faculty training, and program expansion.
- Maintain accreditation and compliance with local, state, and national early childhood education standards.
- Represent AMC at local, national, and international early childhood education conferences through active participation and thought leadership.
- Develop and oversee a comprehensive parenting education program, from prenatal through toddler years.
- Collaborate with the Head of School and development team to drive fundraising initiatives in support of AMC’s operational and annual giving campaigns.
- Foster a culture of collaboration with faculty and staff, ensuring a nurturing, innovative, and supportive work environment.
- As a key staff member in our religious educational institution, you will serve as a role model of our faith’s tenets, demonstrating them daily to our members and the broader Temple community. This position plays a vital role in transmitting the expectations and values of our faith, ensuring that the Temple continues to minister effectively to the needs of our students and members.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in early childhood education, including at least 5 years in senior leadership roles within independent schools or comparable educational institutions.
- Master’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, School Administration, or a related field.
- Proven success in curriculum development, faculty leadership, and school operations management.
- Strong experience in admissions, enrollment management, and parent engagement.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with families, staff, donors, and community stakeholders.
- Expertise in early childhood best practices, accreditation processes, and educational research.
- Stellar professional references that attest to your leadership, vision, and impact.
- Experience collaborating with fundraising teams to secure grants and philanthropic contributions.
Compensation & Benefits
Stephen Wise Temple offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package.
- Salary: $225,000 annually
- Comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, vision, and long-term disability insurance
- Four weeks of paid vacation
- Professional development opportunities, including association memberships and conference travel
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Complimentary synagogue membership and religious school tuition
- Generous tuition discounts for employees’ children
- Access to synagogue programs and Jewish holiday observance leave
To Apply
Submit a current resume, a cover letter detailing your qualifications for this position and your philosophical approach to school leadership to [email protected]
Equal Employment Opportunity
Stephen Wise is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for all applicants, employees, volunteers and interns, and Stephen Wise makes decisions based on the merits of each candidate. Stephen Wise prohibits discrimination based on an individual’s race, color, religion (including all aspects of religious beliefs, observance or practice, including religious dress or grooming practices), sex (including gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, pregnancy and breastfeeding), sexual orientation (including heterosexuality, homosexuality and bisexuality) national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status or registered domestic partner status, uniformed servicemember or veteran status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristics or information or any other basis protected by law. Stephen Wise will afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants, employees, volunteers and interns as to all terms and conditions of employment, including, without limitation, compensation, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, discipline and termination.