Genesis is a three-week residential program at Brandeis University for approximately 50 outstanding Jewish high school students from across the world. Students choose from one of two academic courses, taught by Brandeis-affiliated instructors. Courses meet for two hours each morning, Monday-Friday with time for Nesiyot (Explorations) in the afternoons, Kavanot (spiritual practice) and informal programming in the evenings and on Shabbat. Course work leads up to a capstone project. The Genesis Teaching Assistant job is an immersive position defined by student and programmatic support; TAs are responsible for supporting students during all aspects of Genesis courses and programming, and form a network that keeps Genesis running smoothly and successfully. We deeply value a diverse staff that accurately reflects the Jewish community, and strongly encourage all communities to apply. 

Job Requirements

• Residential and/or camp counselor experience.

• Experience with the Jewish community and strong familiarity with a range of Jewish practice and observance.

• Able to engage with young people while recognizing boundaries;

• Ability to be flexible, proactive and community-oriented.

• Able to take direction well and complete tasks in a timely and organized manner.

• Ability to function well in a fast-paced environment, take direction well and manage time effectively.

• Applicants should have completed at least two years of undergraduate study by June 2025.

• Applicants must have a valid Driver’s license and a clean driving record.

Key Responsibilities

• Living in the residence halls and working with the Genesis team to ensure participant physical and emotional well-being.

• Creating strong relationships with participants while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

• Ensuring that participants are well-supervised and present at all Genesis programs and events, including sitting shmira (on-duty) in the evenings until after lights out.

• Supporting the Genesis course instructors, leading small group discussions and assisting students with their coursework.

• Driving (we will provide training to drive BranVans) and chaperoning students on field trips and other off-campus programs.

• Helping to build Jewish communal life and supporting educational programming.

• Creating and delivering some educational/social evening programming. 

• Other duties as assigned by the Genesis Director.

• Creating and implementing recreational activities (sports, arts & crafts, music,etc) during Chugim (electives).

Program Dates

Sunday, June 29-Sunday, July 20, 2025

Training Dates

Wednesday, June 25-Saturday, June 28: Staff Orientation in residence at Brandeis.

Compensation

$2112.00 plus room and board (dorm-style living). Kosher food and Shabbat keys available; program is Shomer Shabbat in public spaces and eruv is up in the summer.

Equal Opportunity Statement