Director of Operations

Organization: Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue

Location: Skokie, IL

Reports to: House Committee of the Board

Schedule: Full-time, flexible hours with regular evening and weekend responsibilities

Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue is seeking a dynamic, systems-oriented Director of Operations to oversee facilities, tenants, vendor relationships, event logistics, and operational planning. This is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant, growing community and contribute to its ongoing success. The Director of Operations will ensure the smooth functioning of the physical space and logistical operations, providing essential support to the spiritual and programmatic staff. By managing day-to-day operations and facilities needs, this role helps create an environment where religious services, educational programs, and community events can thrive seamlessly.

Core Selection Criteria: to be considered for this role, alignment with the following criteria is required.

Facilities Management Expertise. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience overseeing the maintenance, safety, and daily functionality of a physical space. At Skokie Valley, this means ensuring the building is ready for regular services, holidays, and a variety of programs. The Director will manage custodial staff, vendor relationships, tenant needs, and building upkeep with professionalism and attention to detail. This role requires someone who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves, getting into the weeds when necessary to ensure the facility runs smoothly. Candidates should have some exposure to preventive maintenance, basic building systems, and vendor oversight.

Systems-Oriented Thinking. We are looking for someone who doesn’t just solve problems, they build systems that prevent them. The Director of Operations will create repeatable, efficient processes to support scheduling, event coordination, supply tracking, and communications. This person should be able to anticipate needs, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and bring clarity to a fast-paced, multifaceted environment.

Collaborative Leadership. This role requires constant collaboration with clergy, lay leaders, committees, tenants, and event partners. The Director must be able to navigate different working styles and build trust across a broad range of stakeholders. Emotional intelligence, strong communication skills, and a service mindset are essential to success.

Mission Alignment & Community Sensitivity. While prior experience in a Jewish setting is not required, cultural fluency, or a willingness to learn, is important. The Director will need to coordinate logistics in a way that respects Shabbat, holidays, and kosher standards. A genuine appreciation for a values-driven, community-centered organization is key.

What you will be accountable for: 

Operations & Facilities Management

• Oversee daily operations of the synagogue building, grounds, and equipment
• Ensure the facility is safe, well-maintained, and prepared for daily use, holidays, and events
• Supervise custodial staff and schedule coverage for events and routine needs
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with existing vendors; onboard and manage new ones as needed
• Manage service contracts, repairs, maintenance, and inspections
• Ensure compliance with safety codes and emergency procedures
• Maintain and track inventory of supplies
• Manage, and support custodial staff

Event & Program Logistics

• Coordinate operational support for all events, including services, lifecycle events, and rentals
• Support logistics such as seating, AV, security, equipment, and custodial needs
• Work closely with committees to support programs from an operational standpoint
• Ensure staffing and systems are in place for weekends, holidays, and high-traffic times

Systems Thinking & Improvement

• Partner with clergy, the Board (via the House Committee), and lay leaders to align on priorities
• Develop and implement efficient systems for facilities, supply management, scheduling, and event planning
• Contribute to budgeting around vendors, supplies, and maintenance

What Qualifications You Need

• 3+ years of experience in operations and/or facilities
• Proven ability to manage people and systems in a dynamic environment
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Strong interpersonal communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Work Schedule & Environment

This is a full-time, on-site role. Evening and weekend availability is expected in coordination with events, with flex time provided during the week. The Director will work closely with clergy, lay leaders, and professional staff in a warm, collaborative setting.

About Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue

Skokie Valley is a vibrant and growing Modern Orthodox synagogue serving a diverse community of over 330 families in Skokie, IL. We are committed to fostering spiritual growth, meaningful Jewish experiences, and deep community connection through religious services, education, and social programming. Our building also houses a weekday preschool and serves as a gathering place for lifecycle events and community rentals.