Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors to provide for the education and wellbeing of the men and women who serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as well as the families of fallen soldiers. Headquartered in New York City, FIDF is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation that operates 24 regional offices in the United States and Panama.

FIDF offers educational, cultural, recreational, and social services programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose, and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. Their job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Development Associate in Community Engagement plays a pivotal role in supporting multiple team leads across the FIDF Community Engagement Department. This position focuses on facilitating collaboration, offering strategic support, and ensuring seamless execution of key initiatives. The Senior Development Associate will be responsible for identifying opportunities through research, assisting team leads in their specific areas of support, and helping to align efforts with FIDF’s broader mission. The ideal candidate will possess a sophisticated, diplomatic, and adaptable personality, comfortable working across teams and engaging with stakeholders at various levels. A genuine passion for FIDF’s mission to support current soldiers, veterans, and their families is essential.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE

3-5 years of proven success in community engagement or a related field.
Ability to make decisive, inclusive decisions while balancing attention to detail and strategic vision.
Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to recommend and implement strategic directions independently.
A deep, sincere commitment to the mission of FIDF.
Experience in community organizing and programming.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; capable of presenting ideas clearly, effectively, and in an inspiring manner.
Outstanding interpersonal and diplomatic skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead with integrity and inspire collaboration.
Flexibility and openness to working with volunteer lay leaders, and diverse stakeholders.
High energy, self-motivation, and the ability to thrive under pressure while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Willingness to attend evening and weekend events as required.
Ability to assume additional responsibilities and duties as needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Collaborate with team leads to create a comprehensive programming framework tailored to their specific areas of responsibility.
Develop and organize educational programming, including engaging speakers for Synagogue, and community-based events.
Contribute to the development of educational content for the Day School initiative to raise awareness of FIDF's mission.
Collaborate with donors and community stakeholders in developing community based educational programming.
Establish and maintain an internal support framework for the Community Engagement team, liaising with chapter directors and regional vice presidents to ensure alignment and effective communication.
Support the execution of key community engagement initiatives and assist team leads in delivering high-impact programming.
Provide strategic support for various projects as needed, adjusting to the evolving needs of the department.

Benefits and compensation

Medical, Dental, Vision, Early dismal for Shabbat, 403b with employer matching, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, FSA, Jewish and Federal paid holidays, sick days and vacation
Compensation is commensurate with experience.

FIDF is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) jobs

Senior Development Associate for Community Engagement