High-Level Administrative Assistant

Organization: Congregation Emanu El
Location: Houston, TX
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Reports to: Senior Team Member

About Us:

We are a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative congregation serving an active and diverse membership. With a dynamic clergy team, a robust calendar of religious, educational, and cultural programming, and a deeply engaged community, we are proud to be a spiritual home to individuals and families across generations.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly organized, discreet, and proactive High-Level Administrative Assistant to support senior leadership and play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of our large and growing synagogue. This role requires exceptional communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex calendars, coordinate internal and external communications, and serve as a reliable point of contact for both clergy and congregants.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high-level administrative support to members of the senior team, including managing calendars, preparing meeting materials, and handling sensitive communications with professionalism and discretion.
• Coordinate logistics for meetings, board and committee gatherings, special events, and clergy lifecycle engagements.
• Serve as a liaison between synagogue leadership, staff, board members, and congregants to ensure timely and effective communication.
• Draft and proofread letters, emails, and other written correspondence, often on behalf of senior staff.
• Track project deadlines, follow up on action items, and support cross-departmental collaboration.
• Maintain confidential records and files with accuracy and security.
• Support event planning and lifecycle coordination as needed (e.g., Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, funerals).
• Anticipate the needs of senior staff and take initiative to support organizational priorities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a high-level administrative, executive assistant, or operations support role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate with warmth and professionalism.
• Superior organizational skills and attention to detail; able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Technologically proficient: comfortable with Microsoft Office, Zoom, and database/CRM systems.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Experience in a nonprofit, synagogue, or faith-based setting strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of Jewish customs, holidays, and lifecycle events is a plus, but not required.

Personal Attributes:

• Team player with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Warm, approachable, and welcoming demeanor.
• Emotionally intelligent and respectful in interpersonal interactions.
• Able to maintain composure in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: Commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, retirement plan, and Jewish holidays off.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Meaningful work in a values-driven and community-centered environment.