About the Jewish Federation of Detroit:

As the major instrument of Jewish philanthropy and engagement in the Detroit area, we are a community-driven organization committed to taking care of the needs of the Jewish people and building a vibrant Jewish future, in Metropolitan Detroit, in Israel and around the world.

About the Events and Special Projects Associate Position:

The Events and Special Projects Associate supports the planning, coordination, and execution of events and experiential programs across the Federation. Reporting to the Associate Director, Events and Special Projects, this role serves as a hands-on partner in delivering engaging, high-impact experiences that enhance participation and strengthen relationships with the Federation. As part of the organization's internal center of excellence for event planning, the Associate provides both strategic and logistical support across a diverse portfolio of events, helping to manage timelines, coordinate vendors and stakeholders, and ensure seamless execution tailored to the unique goals and needs of each program.

Who are we looking for?

• A highly creative and organized individual who is motivated to contribute to successful events from planning through execution
• A team-player who can work well with a passionate group of professionals, lay leaders and vendors
• A self-starter who can manage a variety of tasks and details while serving a big-picture goal
• A dynamic and innovative programmer who can plan and oversee a slate of events and programs

Primary responsibilities:

Event development and support:

Partner with department staff to support the development of creative, mission-aligned programs and events, including timelines, logistics, planning documents and follow-up needs. Provide logistical support for Federation events, including assistance with site set-up, vendor coordination, staffing needs and day-of troubleshooting to ensure a professional and seamless participant experience.

Team, budget and project coordination:

Assist in tracking and managing event budgets and expense summaries, ensuring adherence to approved budgets, reviewing invoices for accuracy, processing payments and identifying opportunities for efficiency. Coordinate with Federation department leads and internal partners on insurance, marketing, scheduling, and other cross-department planning requirements. Help track and organize event-related tasks and timelines. Support coordination of event staff, contractors, volunteers and vendors on-site.

Vendor and resource management:

Assist in researching and setting up vendors and event resources. Help maintain the JFD database of vendors, contacts and planning resources.

Marketing and event communications:

Partner with the Marketing team to support event branding and materials, including invitations, signage, banners, posters, e-blasts and other communications as necessary.

Volunteer Relationship Management:

Partner with volunteer leaders across the organization to build and maintain relationships that enhance engagement and campaign participation.

Annual Campaign Participation:

Participation in Federation’s Annual Campaign through telethons, individual conversations or other campaign-related activities.

Complete other special projects and duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal and relationship building skills with a proven ability to interact effectively with professional staff.
• Positive attitude that inspires confidence and action.
• Must be willing to work some evenings and weekends each month (flex time offered).
• Detail oriented, effective time manager with the ability to multitask and prioritize in a demanding work environment.
• Event Planning experience preferred.
• Familiarity with Jewish culture and the Jewish community preferred.