Fordham University has an excellent reputation as a dynamic institution located in New York City. Founded in 1841, Fordham enrolls more than 16,000 undergraduate and graduate students in its 9 Colleges and Schools.
We offer tuition remission for employees and their dependents
A generous employer match towards a 403(b) retirement plan.
As a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), Fordham is considered a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, a federal program designed to forgive student loan debt for employees of certain public and certain nonprofit employers.
As part of its work-life balance program, the University provides generous PTO including 15 vacation days, 12 sick days, 2 personal days, 6 summer Fridays, and holidays that include paid time off between Christmas and New year.
University employees have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP provides no-cost, professional, and confidential services, to help employees and family members address a variety of personal, family, life, and work-related issues.
Reporting to a Campus Ministry Director within the Division of Mission Integration and Ministry, the Director of Jewish Life holds a key position leading campus strategy to support the spiritual, academic, cultural, and personal lives of the Jewish students, faculty, and staff at Fordham University.
This role involves facilitating religious services, providing pastoral care, leading campus conversations on and teaching about Judaism and Jewish life, contributing to interfaith dialogues, and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels included. They will serve as a spiritual leader, counselor, and educator for the Jewish community and the campus at large, as well as a representative of the University and the Division of Mission to diverse and varied campus and community groups.
The Director will serve the Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses and is expected to divide time between the two locations.
Essential Functions
Needs Assessment
Assess specific needs and preferences of Jewish students, faculty, and staff of the Fordham community, then develop and implement programs and initiatives to enhance spiritual and cultural support. Foster collaboration with other University constituents to shape the future of Jewish life on campus.
Develop strategic proposals and initiatives based on assessment findings to better meet the spiritual, pastoral, and communal needs of the Jewish community.
Spiritual Leadership and Interfaith Collaboration
Coordinate diverse Jewish religious services (e.g., Shabbat, High Holidays) and interfaith and multi faith programs on and off campus and provide tailored spiritual guidance, fostering a stronger sense of community and identity among Jewish students while promoting understanding, respect, and collaboration among diverse religious groups on campus.
Collaborate, plan, and implement interfaith prayer services such as the annual “Interfaith Prayer & Picnic with the President” and those that respond to the needs of the Fordham community.
Community Building
Provide spiritual mentorship and guidance tailored to the needs of individuals from various Jewish backgrounds; ideally a leader who can be in communication and collaboration with synagogues, institutions of Jewish learning, and Jewish spirituality partners in the NYC area to meet diverse needs. Engage with leaders from different religious backgrounds to organize events, panels, and discussions that foster a multicultural and multifaith understanding.
Establish and maintain a supportive, inclusive environment for Jewish community members from all backgrounds and denominations. Liaise with campus partners including academic affairs, dining services, student affairs and other areas to serve the needs and goals of the Jewish campus community.
Education and Counseling
Offer one-on-one pastoral counseling, spiritual direction, and crisis intervention, ensuring confidentiality and empathy, and directing individuals to appropriate mental health resources as needed.
Lead educational sessions that deepen the understanding of Jewish texts, beliefs, practices, and history, and address contemporary issues within the context of Jewish law, values, and ethics.
Essential Functions Note
This list is not intended to be an exhaustive list.
The University may assign additional related duties as necessary.
Additional Functions
Encourage and support educational endeavors related to Jewish studies and the broader exploration of religion, ethics, and social justice.
Teach or guest lecture in courses on Jews, Judaism, and Jewish life.
Collaborate with the Mission Integration team and other University departments to contribute to the overall mission of Fordham University.
Handle relevant administrative duties, including but not limited to event planning, budget management, and maintaining community records.
Support student-led campus and community initiatives, including serving as advisor to faith-based clubs and organizations as needed (e.g. Jewish Student Organizations at the Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses).
Required Qualifications: Education and Experience
Advanced degree in Jewish Studies, Rabbinics, Theology, Jewish Education, or a related field
5+ years of experience in chaplaincy, community rabbinical work, or spiritual leadership role.
Required Qualifications: Knowledge and Skills
Deep understanding of and respect for the diversity within Jewish traditions and the broader inter-religious landscape.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an emphasis on compassionate listening and public speaking.
Ability to respond effectively to the needs of a diverse and dynamic university community.
Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and experience in conflict resolution.
Successful candidates should have a knowledge of and commitment to the goals of Jesuit Education.
Preferred Qualifications
Rabbinic ordination
Minimum Starting Salary: $70,000
Maximum Starting Salary: $80,000
Note: Salary is commensurate with qualifications, experience, and skills.
Founded in 1841, Fordham is the Jesuit University of New York, offering an exceptional education distinguished by the Jesuit tradition to more than 16,000 students in its 9 colleges and schools. It has residential campuses in the Bronx and Manhattan, a campus in West Harrison, N.Y., the Louis Calder Center Biological Field Station in Armonk, N.Y., and the London Centre in the United Kingdom.
Fordham University is committed to excellence through diversity and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds.
Fordham is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories