Temple Beth Ohr, Feel the Love Is Hiring A Part-Time Cantorial Soloist

Temple Beth Ohr of La Mirada, a vibrant URJ-affiliated Reform Jewish community, is seeking a part-time Cantor to inspire our congregation through music and prayer. Join us in fostering meaningful spiritual experiences and communal connections in an intimate setting of approximately 150 households.

About Temple Beth Ohr

Located in La Mirada, CA, Temple Beth Ohr is a warm and creative congregation dedicated to innovative and inspirational Reform Judaism. Our community includes young families, adults with children, and active seniors, all united by a commitment to lifelong learning and spiritual growth.

• Rigorous Religious and Hebrew Learning Lab
• Engaging activities for teenagers
• Active Sisterhood and Brotherhood
• Adult Education series
• Uplifting Shabbat and holiday worship services
• Life-cycle events and community-building opportunities

We welcome individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and family structures, including singles, seniors, and families of diverse compositions.

Role Overview

This is a part-time, on-site position based in La Mirada, CA, focused on leading musical aspects of our worship services. The Cantor will work closely with the Rabbi and service participants to create soulful and inclusive musical experiences during Friday night Shabbat and High Holy Day services.

The role involves preparing and performing liturgical music, engaging the congregation actively in song, and contributing to the warm, spiritual atmosphere of the temple. The Cantor will also collaborate on special events, guide the choir or musical groups, and serve as a musical and educational resource.

As a key member of our spiritual leadership team, the Cantor will:

• Partner with the Rabbi in prayer leadership
• Serve as a source of musical inspiration during services
• Lead and educate youth through music and song

Key Responsibilities

Avodah (Prayer)

• Collaborate with the Rabbi to creatively develop music for worship
• Coordinate rehearsal schedules for Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe) choir, if applicable
• Support temple and auxiliary activities with musical expertise

Chinuch (Education)

• Lead as the musical director of our Religious School and Hebrew Lab
• Implement engaging music curricula to enrich Jewish learning
• Participate in youth services, vocal ensembles, and classroom interactions
• Assist students with Torah and Haftarah trope, prayers, and liturgy in preparation for b’nai mitzvah

S'machot v'Avelut (Life-cycle and Mourning)

• Act as a regular member of our pastoral team
• Officiate at members’ life-cycle events as a co-officiant

Compensation & Benefits

Annual salary ranges from $32,000 to $36,000. Benefits include:

• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Vacation

Application Process

We invite applications from ordained Cantors, Cantorial Soloists, and Interns who have experience working with all age groups and leading services independently. Priority will be given to members of professional Reform Cantor associations.

To apply, please submit:

• A letter of interest
• Resume
• Two sample recordings

Send materials and inquiries to:

• Joann Kotkin at joan.kotkin@gmail.com
• Leslie Berger at leslieberger3@gmail.com

Our Commitment to Inclusion

In alignment with the highest ideals of Reform Judaism, Temple Beth Ohr is committed to an inclusive hiring process. We welcome applications from individuals of all ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, and marital statuses, honoring the divine image ("B’tzelem Elohim") in every person.

Qualifications

• Strong vocal and musical skills, with experience in Jewish liturgical music and leading worship
• Ability to inspire and engage a diverse congregation
• Effective collaboration with clergy, leadership, and community members
• Knowledge of Reform Jewish traditions and practices
• Preferred: Degree or certification in music, choral conducting, or related fields