What are the responsibilities and job description for the Torah Reader/Baal Koreh (part time) position at B'nai Aviv Synagogue - The Conservative Synagogue of Southwest Broward?
Position Overview
The Ba'al Koreh serves an essential role in the spiritual life of the congregation by chanting Torah readings with accuracy, fluency, and kavod (reverence). The position includes regular Shabbat morning Torah readings, holiday readings, and weekday Torah readings as scheduled throughout the year.
Responsibilities
- Chant Torah readings for Shabbat morning services following the congregation's triennial reading cycle.
- Prepare and chant Torah readings for Jewish holidays and festivals.
- Chant weekday Torah readings for services including Mondays, Thursdays, fast days, Rosh Chodesh, and other special occasions as needed.
- Coordinate with clergy and ritual staff regarding reading assignments, aliyot, and service logistics.
- Ensure accurate Torah trope, pronunciation, and adherence to Conservative liturgical standards.
- Assist with training and mentoring volunteer Torah readers when appropriate.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated proficiency in Torah cantillation (trope) and Hebrew pronunciation.
- Ability to prepare and chant Torah readings independently and accurately.
- Familiarity with the triennial Torah reading cycle and Conservative Jewish practice.
- Knowledge of holiday and special Torah readings throughout the Jewish calendar.
- Strong reliability, punctuality, and professionalism.
- Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, ritual staff, and lay leaders.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience serving as a Ba'al Koreh in a Conservative synagogue.
- Familiarity with weekday Torah reading customs and special Torah readings.
- Experience teaching or coaching Torah readers.
Schedule
- Regular Shabbat morning services.
- Jewish holidays and festivals.
- Weekday services as scheduled, including Mondays, Thursdays, Rosh Chodesh, fast days, and other occasions requiring Torah reading.
- Additional opportunities may be available for life-cycle events and special services.
Compensation
- Compensation commensurate with experience, skill level, and the number of services covered.