The Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, stands as a premier center for adult Jewish learning and leadership development in the United States. Founded in 1924 as the Spertus College of Judaica, it has evolved into a dynamic institution offering graduate degrees, professional certificates, and continuing education programs centered on contemporary Jewish life. Unlike traditional universities, Spertus emphasizes practical application, blending rigorous academics with real-world relevance for professionals, educators, and community leaders.
Jobs at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies attract those passionate about Jewish thought, history, education, and nonprofit management. The institute's South Loop campus provides a modern, accessible environment overlooking Lake Michigan, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. With a focus on innovative programs like the MA in Jewish Education (MAJEd) and Doctor of Hebrew Letters (DHL), career opportunities here appeal to scholars seeking impact beyond the classroom.
In Chicago's vibrant Jewish community, Spertus plays a pivotal role, hosting events, conferences, and the Asher Library, one of the largest Jewish research collections in the Midwest. This setting makes it an ideal spot for higher ed jobs in a culturally rich urban environment.
Securing jobs at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies typically requires advanced academic credentials tailored to Jewish studies and education. For faculty positions, such as assistant or associate professors, a PhD in Jewish Studies, Religious Studies, Education, History, or a closely related field is standard. The doctorate should demonstrate expertise in areas like contemporary Jewish thought, Holocaust and genocide studies, or Israel studies.
Adjunct lecturers or instructors may hold a master's degree, such as the MA in Jewish Studies or Jewish Education, coupled with significant teaching experience. Administrative roles, like program directors, often seek an MA or higher in nonprofit management or leadership, with certifications from bodies like the Jewish Federations of North America adding value.
Research-focused roles prioritize terminal degrees with dissertations on interdisciplinary topics. For example, candidates for tenure-track positions in the Greenberg Center for Jewish Studies need publications in peer-reviewed journals on modern Jewish philosophy or ethics.
Spertus prioritizes research that bridges traditional Jewish texts with contemporary issues. Key areas include Jewish leadership, education innovation, American Jewish history, and ethical responses to global challenges. Expertise in Talmudic studies, Kabbalah, or rabbinic literature is valued, but with an emphasis on accessibility for non-specialists.
Faculty jobs often require a record of grants from organizations like the Memorial Foundation for Jewish Culture or the Association for Jewish Studies. Preferred research outputs include books published by academic presses such as University of Chicago Press or articles in journals like Shofar or AJS Review.
Interdisciplinary approaches, such as combining Jewish studies with social justice or digital humanities, align with Spertus's mission. For research assistant jobs, familiarity with archival work at the Spertus Museum or Asher Library is advantageous. Explore research jobs for similar opportunities across higher ed.
Core skills for jobs at Spertus Institute include exceptional communication, cultural competence, and pedagogical innovation. Proficiency in Hebrew (Biblical and modern) is often essential, alongside English fluency for diverse student bodies.
Technical competencies like familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas) and data analytics for program evaluation enhance candidacy. For admin roles, CRM software experience supports student recruitment.
Candidates with 3-5 years of postdoctoral or teaching experience stand out. Publications (2+ peer-reviewed articles), conference presentations at AJS annual meetings, and leadership in Jewish organizations like Hillel or federations are preferred.
Prior roles at similar institutions, such as Hebrew College or Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, provide relevant context. Experience in Chicago's Jewish community, volunteering with JUF or local synagogues, signals commitment.
The application process for jobs at Spertus Institute begins with monitoring their careers page and platforms like higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter highlighting Jewish passion, teaching philosophy statement, and three references.
Avoid generic applications; demonstrate alignment with Spertus's vision of accessible Jewish learning. Deadlines vary, but fall postings often close by March.
Spertus Institute actively promotes diversity through initiatives like the Inclusion Initiative, welcoming Jews of Color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and interfaith participants. Programs such as 'Jews of All Colors' address racial equity in Jewish spaces.
The faculty reflects varied backgrounds, with efforts to hire from underrepresented groups via partnerships with Jews of Color Initiative. Accessibility features include braille materials and virtual events. Annual diversity training and affinity groups support inclusive campus culture.
Spertus supports work-life balance with flexible schedules suited to its adult learner model—many evening/weekend classes allow daytime research or family time. Remote/hybrid options expanded post-COVID, with generous parental leave and sabbaticals every seven years.
Campus life in Chicago's South Loop buzzes with cultural perks: proximity to Millennium Park, Art Institute, and Lake Michigan trails. Employee perks include free classes, museum access, and wellness stipends. The collegial environment features kollels (study groups) and holiday celebrations, fostering community amid urban energy.
Chicago's affordability relative to coasts, diverse neighborhoods like Hyde Park, and public transit make it family-friendly for academics.
Jewish Studies: An academic discipline examining Jewish history, texts, culture, and religion from ancient to modern times.
MAJEd (Master of Arts in Jewish Education): Spertus's flagship degree training educators for synagogues, day schools, and camps.
DHL (Doctor of Hebrew Letters): Advanced doctoral program for scholarly Jewish research without ordination focus.
Kollel: Communal study session promoting Torah learning among faculty and staff.
Careers here offer intellectual fulfillment in a mission-driven setting. For more on university job types, faculty paths, or admin roles, explore AcademicJobs.com resources like higher ed career advice and higher ed jobs. Check university jobs for openings or post a job if recruiting.
In summary, jobs at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies blend scholarship, teaching, and community impact in Chicago's dynamic landscape.
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