Interim Cantor

As a Reform Synagogue, THS represents a vibrant Jewish community, drawing members from more than 14 different towns in Somerset, Union, and Morris counties. The organization presents innovative programming, technological integration, a cutting- edge educational curriculum, and a wide array of engaging experiences to meet the needs of all ages. Included in the Synagogue’s offerings are weekly Shabbat services, lifecycle events, social programming, auxiliary groups, volunteer opportunities and so much more. We offer one of the area’s premier early childhood programs and preschools (The Orchard Academy at Mountain Top School) that serves students from infants through full-day kindergarteners. Our Jewish education programs (JSchool and Machon) engage students from pre-K through 12th grade. Combined, these programs serve over 250 students from the surrounding areas. Temple Har Shalom is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism. Temple Har Shalom (THS) is at an exciting point in our journey, and we want you to join our congregational family in helping us to both build upon our 50+ year legacy as a dynamic Reform synagogue of 300 families and assisting us in securing our future. As we enter our planned and celebrated rabbinic transition during the upcoming year, we are seeking a seasoned and established musical professional to join with the clergy, professional staff, and leadership in continuing to maintain a creative, vibrant, and passionate culture of musical engagement at THS. The Interim Cantor will serve as a liturgical partner to the clergy, infuser of musical content synagogue-wide, guru for B’nai Mitzvah preparations, and valued member of the professional team. Beyond essential musical knowledge and abilities, the ideal candidate should be warm, charismatic, authentic, collaborative, and creative. The Interim position is intended to provide a steady partner to both our outgoing Senior Rabbi and new incoming Rabbi over a two-year period, July 2024-June 2026, allowing the congregation to focus on this exciting and significant occasion. The ideal candidate is fully comfortable with the interim designation and will enthusiastically help plan for the congregation’s future and ongoing success. Should you possess and seek to use your multiple talents, we offer unique opportunities to work with our team of professionals in fostering a creative, engaging, and proactive Jewish center for learning and connection. The ideal candidate will be a talented Jewish music professional with experience in multi-faceted spiritual and educational settings. All qualified Jewish music leaders, including ordained/invested Cantors, as well as established Cantorial Soloists, are encouraged to apply. Areas of Responsibility: Liturgical & Musical Programming, B’nai Mitzvah Preparation & Professional Staff Member: Qualifications:  Passion for Jewish music and worship, with demonstrable experience leading and developing prayer services based on Reform practice. Excellent knowledge of past and current Reform repertoire, Ability to read and teach music, Hebrew, and cantillation, Ability to provide own musical accompaniment (e.g., guitar, piano, etc) when needed or appropriate is a plus, Ability to build quality relationships with members of all ages. An appreciation of diversity, knowledge, and care for inclusive practices, Effective and strong communication skills (orally and written), Comfort with technology and able to utilize and navigate the many facets of a post-COVID world. Prior knowledge of the Microsoft 365 suite, Zoom, and ShulCloud a plus & Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check in accordance with state and federal regulations. This is a part-time, interim position (exempt and not eligible for OT) that can be, depending on the arrangement, structured either as a salaried position or negotiated per diem. Salary Range of $50-$75K, commensurate with qualifications, experience, time arrangements, and including vacation and other PTO. Other benefits are negotiable and could include: Employer contribution to retirement savings, voice  lessons/professional development allowance, parsonage (if an ordained member of the clergy), ACC/CCAR or other professional organization dues if applicable. Please send cover letter, resume, references, musical samples, and any other pertinent information to [email protected]. www.templeharshalom.org.

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