Communications Associate

Who We Are: The Institute for Jewish Enrichment (IJE) is a Jewish afterschool program and educational center in Hyde Park, Chicago. We work with children and families to create meaningful, engaging Jewish learning experiences. Our Field School runs four days a week, along with full-day programs and camps throughout the year. We are a warm, collaborative community where children, educators, and families are known and supported. More than a school, the Institute embodies an original approach to Jewish children’s learning. We teach our mindset and methodology to educators and communities nationwide and are leaders in the current paradigm shift in Jewish education. As a growing organization, our work also includes communications and fundraising efforts that sustain and expand what we offer. We are seeking an Onsite Operations & Communications Associate to support daily operations, help keep communications and fundraising efforts organized, and serve as a steady, welcoming presence for children, educators, and families. About the Role Be the heartbeat of a joyful and intentional Jewish children’s learning environment. The Onsite Operations & Communications Associate ensures our Field School runs smoothly every day. You will manage systems, coordinate communications, and support families, educators, and children. This role blends deep attention to detail and follow-through with a warm presence. One moment you might be updating attendance or organizing a mailing; the next, helping a child find a bandage, greeting a parent, troubleshooting a tech issue, creating promotional materials, or comforting a child who is experiencing moments of frustration. Children are onsite Monday–Thursday from 1–6 pm and during Special Days and camps (8:30 am–6:00 pm). Starting at 12 pm, the administrator is onsite and fully present to support the community. This role requires consistent onsite presence. At the same time, you will play a key role in keeping communications and fundraising operations on track: preparing newsletters, organizing lists, supporting campaigns, and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. You will be part of a collaborative team where everyone rolls up their sleeves and values kindness, respect, and clear communication. This role reports to the Field School Director and works closely with the Executive Director on communications and fundraising operations. Our office is an open, active space, so flexibility is essential. This role is ideal for someone who loves systems, details, and keeping things on track, and who finds meaning in supporting a community of children, educators, and families. You will be part of a team that is always learning, with opportunities to grow your skills in operations, communications, and fundraising over time. Compensation Hourly: $23–$26/hour, based on experience and alignment with the role Part-time, ~0.75 FTE (30 hours/week) This is a non-exempt, hourly position eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable law. Benefits aligned with IJE policies for part-time employees. Eligible benefits include health care contribution, generous paid vacation and leave, and SIMPLE IRA after one year What You’ll Do Field School Operations Manage daily attendance and communication with families Monitor and respond to the admin inbox (absences, logistics, parent questions)Communicate regularly via email, text, and phone call with IJE families about a range of day‑to‑day matters. Coordinate student pickup and transportation Support a smooth, organized, and welcoming environment for children, families, and staff Maintain core school systems (enrollment, calendars, forms, and records) Manage supplies, snacks, and basic office needs (including troubleshooting day‑to‑day issues) Communications & Fundraising Operations Prepare and send newsletters, campaign emails, and other communications (Mailchimp, Substack) Maintain contact lists, tags, and audience segmentation Support donor tracking, acknowledgments, and campaign logistics Help keep fundraising efforts organized and moving forward Create simple design materials in Canva aligned with IJE’s style Programs & Events Manage scheduling, registration, and attendance tracking for programs Support logistics to ensure programs run smoothly This is a wide-ranging role, and we are intentional about pacing and prioritization. Physical Requirements This position requires sitting at a desk and using a computer for extended periods, along with occasional movement around the building to support program needs. The role may also involve light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) for event setup and supply organization. Reasonable accommodations will be made to support applicants and employees with disabilities. Please let us know of any needs when applying. Work Environment & Expectations Onsite presence required during program hours (Monday–Thursday, 12–6 pm) During Special Days and camps (approximately 25+ days/year), hours begin earlier Additional hours, up to approximately 30 hours/week total, may include limited remote work coordinated in advance. This role is central to daily operations and requires reliability. Some Sundays required (advance notice given, likely 4/year) #J-18808-Ljbffr