Hebrew Musician

ABOUT THE JCC EAST BAY

The JCC East Bay values hachnasat orchim (providing a welcoming home) for people of all ages and life stages. Inspired by Jewish values, culture, and tradition, we build relationships, foster learning, and offer accessible pathways to Jewish life through programs for children, teens, families, adults, and older adults. After decades of operating our suite of programs in North Berkeley, we will be opening a new home for East Bay Jewish life in the summer of 2026 in Oakland. Our new campus will offer programs and activities to spark creativity, nurture identity, and weave together diverse generations, cultures, and organizations—including voices from across global Jewry—into a living tapestry of culture, learning, and kehilla (community) connections. Our future flagship campus in the Rockridge neighborhood will house our administrative offices and our award-winning preschool opening in the fall of 2026, and we will retain afterschool programs in Berkeley and in several Oakland public schools.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Hebrew Musician leads monthly Parent & Toddler Music Sessions designed to engage young children and their caregivers through music, language, and Jewish culture. This role is ideal for a warm, engaging Hebrew-speaking musician who enjoys working with families and understands the role of music in early childhood development. The facilitator creates joyful, inclusive musical experiences that strengthen family connections and introduce Hebrew language and cultural elements in developmentally appropriate ways. This is a part-time, program-based position running once per month from August 2026 through May 2027.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Facilitation

• Lead interactive, developmentally appropriate music sessions for parents and toddlers (approximately ages 1–4).
• Design and facilitate a 45-minute structured musical experience within each 1.5 -hour session.
• Use singing, rhythm, movement, and simple instruments to actively engage young children.
• Encourage parent participation and model ways families can incorporate music into home routines.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and joyful environment for families of diverse backgrounds.

• Integrate Hebrew language naturally through songs, repetition, and musical play.
• Introduce cultural elements connected to Jewish and Israeli music and traditions.
• Support early language exposure and cultural connection through music.

Preparation & Collaboration

• Prepare session plans and musical materials in advance.
• Communicate with JCC staff as needed regarding scheduling, setup, and program needs.\
• Support the JCC East Bay’s commitment to accessible, family-centered programming.

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Fluency in Hebrew (spoken and sung).
• Experience as a musician; strong vocal skills required (instrumental skills a plus).
• Experience working with young children and/or in early childhood or family settings.
• Background in early childhood education, music education, or a related field.
• Familiarity with Hebrew and Israeli children’s songs and cultural repertoire.
• Comfort leading groups of parents and toddlers in an interactive environment.
• Ability to create engaging, age-appropriate musical experiences.
• Reliable availability for monthly sessions from August 2026 through May 2027.
• Alignment with the mission and values of the JCC East Bay.

This is a part-time position, paying $125-$150 per session.

The JCC East Bay is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. JCC East Bay policy prohibits unlawful discrimination in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. The JCC East Bay complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require particular accommodations during the application and interview process, please inform us of your needs so that we can provide accordingly.

Systemic inequities in hiring have caused women, people of color, LGBTQ+ folks, and others to apply to jobs only if they meet all of the qualifications. The JCC East Bay encourages you to apply anyway, as no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications. We look forward to your application.