Temple Israel of Portsmouth: Rabbinic Search Announcement

Written by: Rabbi Search Committee

Temple Israel of Portsmouth has begun the search for our next settled rabbi to lead our historic and vibrant congregation into its next chapter. As we prepare to post our official application through the USCJ and Rabbinical Assembly, we are also sharing the position description here on our website to give our members and the wider community a sense of who we are and what we’re seeking in our next spiritual leader.

Our search committee is guided by a deep respect for Temple Israel’s century-long history as New Hampshire’s oldest Jewish congregation, and by excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. We are looking for a rabbi who will nurture our strong sense of community, inspire us in prayer and learning, and partner with us to continue building an inclusive, welcoming, and connected Jewish home on the Seacoast.

Interested rabbis are encouraged to review the full job description below. Applications should be submitted through the USCJ/RA Placement Portal, and inquiries may be directed to rabbisearch@templeisraelnh.org.

Updates about the search process will be posted here as they become available.

Job Title: Rabbi

Congregation: Temple Israel of Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Start Date: July 1, 2026
Reports to: Temple Israel Board of Directors

About Temple Israel

Temple Israel is a vibrant, egalitarian Conservative congregation located in the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. As the oldest continuous Jewish house of worship in the state and the largest Jewish congregation in New Hampshire, we are proud of our 100+ year history and our active, welcoming community of approximately 355 member families.

Our congregation is diverse—welcoming interfaith families, LGBTQ+ members, newcomers, and lifelong residents alike. We come together for worship, learning, community, and social justice. Our members are deeply committed to preserving and advancing Judaism through prayer, education, cultural expression, and tikkun olam, while also embracing innovation and modern connection.

Position Overview

Temple Israel seeks a dynamic, compassionate, and collaborative Rabbi to serve as our spiritual leader, teacher, and community builder. The ideal candidate will help guide our congregation into its next chapter—honoring our history while nurturing growth, engagement, and leadership development for the future.

This full-time rabbinic role involves leading worship and life-cycle events, providing pastoral care, teaching and inspiring learning at all ages, and representing the congregation in the broader Seacoast and New Hampshire Jewish communities.

Key Responsibilities

Spiritual and Ritual Leadership

• Lead Shabbat, holiday, and life-cycle services with warmth, musicality, and spiritual depth.
• Deliver meaningful sermons and Torah teachings that connect tradition to the modern world.
• Foster joyful, participatory worship that blends traditional and contemporary melodies.
• Mentor and empower lay leaders to lead parts of services and leyn Torah/Haftarah.
• Ensure observance of our ritual standards consistent with our traditional practice.

Pastoral Care

• Offer compassionate, confidential counseling and support during times of illness, loss, and life transitions.
• Officiate at weddings, funerals, baby namings, and other life-cycle events.
• Build strong relationships across generations, providing presence and guidance in both joyous and difficult times.

Education and Lifelong Learning

• Collaborate with the Head of School to strengthen our religious school and family education programs.
• Teach adult education classes, conversion students, and Torah study groups.
• Foster a culture of lifelong Jewish learning and curiosity.

Community Building and Engagement

• Build cohesion and connections across our diverse membership.
• Welcome and integrate new members, and engage younger families and emerging leaders.
• Partner with committees and volunteers to strengthen community participation and outreach.
• Represent Temple Israel in interfaith and civic life, continuing strong relationships with local clergy, the City of Portsmouth, and the Jewish Federation of New Hampshire.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Partner with the Board, Executive Director, and professional staff to guide vision, policy, and decision-making in line with synagogue values and halakha.
• Participate in board and committee meetings, providing rabbinic counsel and strategic insight.
• Support and develop lay leadership to ensure the long-term vitality of the congregation.

Qualifications

• Strong musical and prayer-leading ability; able to engage congregants in spirited, participatory worship.
• Demonstrated experience in pastoral care, teaching, and community engagement.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to connect across backgrounds and generations.
• Commitment to egalitarianism, inclusivity, and the values of Conservative Judaism.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $150,000–$170,000 (base)
• Total Compensation Package: $162,000–$182,000 including benefits
• Benefits include:
  • Matching contribution to Joint Retirement Board 403(b)(9) Plan
  • Health insurance subsidy (up to $5,000 annually)
  • Continuing education allowance ($1,500 annually)
  • Five weeks vacation
  • Parsonage allowance

About Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a beautiful coastal city of 23,000 with a rich history and vibrant cultural life. Located one hour from both Boston and Portland, it offers beaches, mountains, and four distinct seasons. With a lively downtown, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community, Portsmouth is an exceptional place to live, raise a family, and lead a congregation that is both deeply rooted and forward-looking.

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