Available Positions
Available Positions
IMAGINE THE MOST INCREDIBLE SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE.
Every summer, dozens of energetic, enthusiastic, and dedicated individuals join our summer Yallah! Israel staff teams to help create the best summer Israel experience for our teens. Staffing Yallah! Israel is both a rewarding and demanding experience. The program requires staff that are responsible, flexible and patient. Each day, you will have the opportunity to directly impact the growth and life experience of a bus full of teens, build lifelong connections with passionate American and Israeli young adults, and experience your own personal and professional advancement.
The URJ maintains a strong policy of equal opportunity in employment. It is our objective to recruit, hire, and retain the most qualified individuals including those of any race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Our equal employment philosophy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, training, promotions, transfers, job benefits, and terminations. The URJ encourages applications from women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.
This job descriptions below are intended to convey information essential to understand the scope of the positions. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, or responsibilities associated with the position.
Our year-round team is deeply committed to refining our practices each year to strengthen the connection between our participants, the people and land of Israel, and their own Jewish identity. Our programs are designed to create transformative experiences—for both participants and staff—by encouraging growth, self-discovery, and stepping beyond comfort zones. Through the places we visit, the knowledge they gain, and the challenges we embrace, participants engage in moments that shape them into thoughtful, independent young adults.
We recognize that exploring outside of one’s comfort zone can spark a range of emotions and reactions. That’s why we train our staff to approach every situation with acceptance, support, and understanding, honoring the diverse backgrounds and life experiences each participant brings. Everything we do during the summer is rooted in ensuring that participants feel safe, comfortable, and ready to grow—while setting them up for success and guiding them toward responsibility and accountability.
The roles outlined below represent different facets of this mission—each offering a unique perspective on care, guidance, and personal development.
Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus) / Madrich(a)
Reports To: Unit Care Specialist
The Rosh Kvutza serves as the primary leader and tone-setter for their bus, fostering a Kehilat Kedusha (sacred community) and ensuring clarity of roles among staff. This position is responsible for building a positive, structured, and supportive environment for both teens and staff. The Rosh Kvutza oversees all aspects of the group experience—behavioral, emotional, logistical, and programmatic—while maintaining open communication and promoting accountability. As the first point of contact for on-the-ground issues, the Rosh Kvutza ensures smooth operations and elevates concerns to the appropriate supervisory channels.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Group Management
- Create and maintain a joyful and educational atmosphere that reflects and reinforces Yallah! Israel’s core values.
- Collaborate with the Tour Guide to understand the group’s educational goals and actively support their implementation throughout the program.
- Oversee all aspects of the bus community, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of teens, staff, and any group or accommodation-related concerns.
- Ensure teens and staff fulfill their responsibilities, arrive on time, and have proper attire and equipment; maintain accountability across the group.
- Facilitate staff meetings for all bus counselors to provide direction, clarity, and cohesion.
- Serve as the first point of contact for behavioral or programmatic challenges on the ground, reporting to the Unit Care Specialist, who reports to the Community Care Supervisor.
- Collaborate with Unit Care Specialist regarding behavioral, mental, emotional, and physical wellness concerns.
Reporting & Documentation
- Ensure all staff submit required reports in a timely manner; regularly remind and collect reports as needed.
- Submit positive reports highlighting camper successes—especially for participants who may require additional support.
Programmatic Oversight
- Oversee group activities and ensure they align with program values and expectations.
- Organize and support staff in planning and executing all mandatory and optional programming; ensure all staff are prepared, equipped, and coordinated well in advance.
- Make real-time itinerary modifications, when necessary, within program guidelines and values, consulting Unit Care Supervisor or Year-Round Staff when appropriate based on the complexity of the situation.
- Complete required training for medication distribution and serve as a backup when needed.
- Partner closely with Unit Care Supervisor to prevent, address, and curb behavioral challenges.
Preferred Experience & Qualifications
- Informal Education Leadership: Experience leading experiential and engaging learning activities.
- Teen Engagement: Strong background working with teens in educational or recreational settings.
- Cross-Cultural Competence: Familiarity with North American teens and related cultural nuances (preferred).
- Camp or Program Experience: Background in summer camps or immersive group programs.
- Supervisory Skills: Demonstrated ability to support, manage, inspire, and hold staff accountable.
- Adaptability: Ability to navigate dynamic situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
- Collaborative Mindset: Comfort working within a clear organizational structure and following protocols.
- High-Level English Proficiency: Must have strong written and verbal English communication skills.
- Growth Orientation: Openness to feedback and commitment to ongoing professional development.
Rosh Logisti (Head of Logistics) / Madrich(A)
Reports To: Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus)
The Rosh Logisti serves as the primary logistical coordinator for their group, ensuring smooth operations and seamless communication between the Yallah! Israel summer program and our logistics partner, Israel Destination. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving to ensure all logistical aspects of the trip run efficiently and safely.
In addition to logistical responsibilities, the Rosh Logisti is a full member of the Hadracha (educational leadership) team, actively supporting staff and participants in achieving the program’s educational and wellness goals. This includes contributing to a positive, inclusive environment and assisting with camper engagement and staff support as part of the bus leadership team.
Key Responsibilities:
Logistics & Operations
- Manage all logistical aspects for the group, including rooming lists, dietary needs, transportation, and daily schedules.
- Maintain direct contact with hotels, bus drivers, food vendors, and other service providers to ensure smooth operations.
- Oversee the group’s equipment needs for all programs and activities.
- Handle financial responsibilities, including the group Kupa, Kupa Ktana, and cash for meals.
- Attend daily meetings with Israel Destination to coordinate operations and address any emerging issues.
- Coordinate between Yallah! Israel and Israel Destination to balance programmatic and logistical needs.
- Prepare and oversee group meals, ensure accommodations for food allergies and dietary restrictions, and check in with teens to ensure their needs are met.
Educational Leadership & Support
- Serve as a member of the overall team as a counselor, supporting staff and participants in programmatic and wellness goals.
- Assist in creating a positive, inclusive, and structured environment for campersteens and staff.
- Support the bus leadership team in camper engagement, staff guidance, and general group management.
Preferred Experience & Qualifications
- Informal Education Leadership: Proven experience leading engaging, experiential learning activities.
- Teen Engagement: Strong background working with teens in educational or recreational settings.
- Cross-Cultural Competence: Familiarity with American teens and cultural nuances (preferred).
- Camp or Program Experience: Prior involvement in summer camp or immersive group programs.
- Supervisory Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage and support staff teams effectively.
- Flexibility & Adaptability: Able to adjust to dynamic situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
- Collaborative Mindset: Comfortable working within a structured hierarchy and following organizational protocols.
- Growth Orientation: Open to feedback and committed to professional development.
Rosh Briut (Head of Healthcare) / Madrich(a)
Reports To: Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus)
The Rosh Briut serves as the Healthcare Coordinator for the program on their bus, ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all participants. This role involves overseeing medication distribution, managing healthcare concerns, coordinating allergy accommodations, and maintaining clear communication with their Unit Care Specialist and Rosh Kvuzta. The Rosh Briut ensures all medical protocols are followed; medications are properly stored and administered, and participants receive appropriate support for their physical health needs.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Group Management
- Create and maintain a joyful and educational atmosphere that reflects and reinforces Yallah! Israel’s core values.
- Collaborate with the Tour Guide to understand the group’s educational goals and actively support their implementation throughout the program.
- Oversee all aspects of the bus community, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of teens, staff, and any group or accommodation-related concerns.
- Ensure teens and staff fulfill their responsibilities, arrive on time, and have proper attire and equipment; maintain accountability across the group.
- Facilitate staff meetings for all bus counselors to provide direction, clarity, and cohesion.
- Serve as the first point of contact for behavioral or programmatic challenges on the ground, reporting to the Unit Care Specialist, who reports to the Community Care Supervisor.
- Collaborate with Unit Care Specialist regarding behavioral, mental, emotional, and physical wellness concerns.
Reporting & Documentation
- Ensure all staff submit required reports in a timely manner; regularly remind and collect reports as needed.
- Submit positive reports highlighting camper successes—especially for participants who may require additional support.
Programmatic Oversight
- Oversee group activities and ensure they align with program values and expectations.
- Organize and support staff in planning and executing all mandatory and optional programming; ensure all staff are prepared, equipped, and coordinated well in advance.
- Make real-time itinerary modifications, when necessary, within program guidelines and values, consulting Unit Care Supervisor or Year-Round Staff when appropriate based on the complexity of the situation.
- Complete required training for medication distribution and serve as a backup when needed.
- Partner closely with Unit Care Supervisor to prevent, address, and curb behavioral challenges.
Preferred Experience & Qualifications
- Informal Education Leadership: Experience leading experiential and engaging learning activities.
- Teen Engagement: Strong background working with teens in educational or recreational settings.
- Cross-Cultural Competence: Familiarity with North American teens and related cultural nuances (preferred).
- Camp or Program Experience: Background in summer camps or immersive group programs.
- Supervisory Skills: Demonstrated ability to support, manage, inspire, and hold staff accountable.
- Adaptability: Ability to navigate dynamic situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
- Collaborative Mindset: Comfort working within a clear organizational structure and following protocols.
- High-Level English Proficiency: Must have strong written and verbal English communication skills.
- Growth Orientation: Openness to feedback and commitment to ongoing professional development.
Rosh Kesher (Head of Community Engagement) / Madrich(a)
Reports To: Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus)
The Rosh Kesher serves as the primary storyteller and digital content creator for the group, capturing the energy, spirit, and impact of the Yallah! Israel experience. This role involves producing high-quality photos, videos, and written content that highlight meaningful moments and strengthen the program’s connection with families and the broader community. The Rosh Kesher collaborates closely with the Marketing and Recruitment team to ensure consistent messaging, creative social media strategy, and accurate representation of the participant experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Capture photos, videos, and participant reflections for group blogs.
- Brainstorm and develop creative Reels, TikToks, and other social media content in collaboration with the marketing team, capturing content accordingly.
- Write or delegate weekly blog posts highlighting fun, meaningful, and impactful moments from the trip.
- Communicate the Jewish connection to Israel through engaging visual and written media.
- Maintain consistent communication with Yallah! Israel’s Director of Marketing and Recruitment.
Preferred Experience and Qualifications
- High-Level English Proficiency: Must have strong reading and writing skills in English.
- Social Media Experience (Bonus): Background in social media strategy, content creation, or platform management.
- Writing or Blogging Experience (Bonus): Ability to craft engaging, clear, and concise written content.
- Photography or Videography Skills (Bonus): Experience capturing high-quality photos or videos for creative or promotional use.
Rosh Kishrei Noar (Head of Israeli Teen Integration) / Madrich(a)
Reports To: Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus)
The Rosh Kishrei Noar is responsible for supporting the successful integration, engagement, and well-being of Israeli participants within the Yallah! Israel program. This role focuses on building trust and community, preparing Israeli teens before joining the group, and supporting them throughout the experience. The Rosh Kishrei Noar serves as the primary point of contact for Israeli participants, helping them navigate group dynamics, connect socially, and fully participate in the program’s educational and communal goals. The position also serves as a bridge between families, staff, and leadership to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for all Israeli teens.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build relationships with Israeli participants prior to the program to support a smooth and informed transition into the Yallah! Israel group.
- Serve as the main point of contact for Israeli teens throughout the program, fostering trust, community, and a sense of belonging.
- Support Israeli participants in integrating socially and culturally into the larger group experience.
- Communicate with parents of Israeli participants as needed while the program is in session.
- Collaborate with staff and leadership to address any social, behavioral, or cultural needs specific to Israeli participants.
- Facilitate ice breakers upon arrival of Israeli teens to the group
Rosh T'filah (Head of Jewish Experiences) / Madrich(a)
Reports To: Rosh Kvutza (Head of Bus)
The Rosh T’filah is responsible for cultivating meaningful, engaging, and inclusive Jewish experiences throughout the program. This role empowers teens to take ownership of Jewish ritual life by identifying participant talents, facilitating leadership opportunities, and guiding them in creating authentic and inspiring moments of prayer, ritual, and learning. The Rosh T’filah helps shape the spiritual and cultural atmosphere of the group, ensuring that Jewish content is accessible, relevant, and enriching for all participants.
Key Responsibilities
- Organize and empower teens to take leadership roles in Jewish ritual, services, and spiritual moments.
- Identify and incorporate participant talents and interests into Jewish programming.
- Ensure participants receive clear roles, guidance, and adequate preparation time for their leadership responsibilities.
- Lead services, ritual moments, and Jewish learning sessions in a meaningful, creative, and engaging way.
Unit Care Specialist
Reports To: Community Care Supervisor
The Unit Care Specialist is responsible for fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for teens and staff throughout the program. This role emphasizes proactive engagement, emotional wellness, prevention-based practices, and positive reinforcement. The Unit Care Specialist serves as a key liaison between staff, participants, parents of participants, and the Community Care Supervisor as a professional in the field.
Key Responsibilities:
Camper & Staff Support
- Oversee comprehensive MESSH needs – mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health – of all teens and staff on the assigned bus.
- Develop a deep understanding of teens and staff by reviewing files and identifying tools to best support their needs (“know your customer”).
- Partner with bus staff (all counselors and tour guide) to create solutions and uphold positive reinforcement practices.
- Offer and facilitate programs related to Jewish identity, personal identity, self-wellness, social inclusion, and other emerging group needs.
- Lead with prevention—build relationships with teens individually and in groups to identify and address potential challenges early.
- Model and reinforce preventative, supportive practices among staff.
- Provide feedback, coaching, and on-the-ground training to the Bus Leader and all other bus staff.
- Use leadership skills in a way that empowers staff and Bus Leader to lead teens effectively.
Team Collaboration & Communication
- Communicate daily with Camper Care Supervisor
- Participate in staff meetings and offer Community Care insights, strategies, and guidance.
- Provide consistent language of care and wellness to model for the team.
- Conduct 1-on-1 check-ins with staff, offering feedback, support, and space for reflection.
- Work closely with the Bus Leader to prevent, address, and resolve behavioral issues.
Reporting & Documentation
- Ensure all staff understand, follow, and submit required reports; regularly remind and collect necessary reports.
- Manage the bus group chat exclusively for reporting (behavioral, mental wellness, medical concerns, etc.) to ensure accurate communication with Community Care Supervisors.
- Submit positive reports recognizing teens’ successes and growth—especially for participants who require additional support.
- Elevate concerns or situations beyond your scope to the Community Care Supervisor promptly.
Family Communication & Logistics
- Manage the parents’ WhatsApp group by providing updates, itinerary changes, messages, and photos/videos.
- Serve as a point of contact on the ground in Israel for parents of campers to communicate and collaborate with.
- Complete required training to oversee medication distribution and serve as a backup when needed.
Qualifications:
- Background in social work (preferred but not required).
- Experience working with high school–aged teens.
- URJ or camp experience is a bonus.
Tour Educator
Reports To: Rosh Kvuta (Head of the Bus)
The Tour Educator is a key member of the team, responsible for bringing the history, culture, and complexity of Israel to life through dynamic, engaging, and meaningful educational experiences. As a licensed guide, the Tour Educator leads site visits, teaches core program content, and partners closely with the madrichim/ot to create an integrated, immersive learning environment. This role ensures that all educational components align with Yallah! Israel’s goals, values, and pedagogical approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a licensed Tour Guide (and/or “Tav Teken”) and uphold all professional standards associated with the role.
- Implement Yallah! Israel’s educational goals and approaches throughout all guided experiences.
- Lead tours, guide at sites, and
- Ensure educational content is relevant, inclusive, and reflective of program values.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please email Raya Seidman.