Imam Job Description
Location: 402 New Brunswick Ave, East Brunswick, New Jersey
Position : Full-Time or Part-Time (Negotiable)
The Islamic Center of East Brunswick (ICEB) seeks a full-time or part-time Imam to lead, guide, and nurture the growth of our diverse and dynamic Muslim community. The Imam will serve as a religious leader, educator, counselor, and community representative, grounded in traditional Islamic scholarship and equipped to address contemporary challenges. A part-time Imam will have a more focused set of duties (e.g., Jumu’ah, limited classes or youth engagement), while a full-time Imam will be expected to take on broader community leadership and support. All Imams must adhere to ICEB’s current and future bylaws, policies, and administrative decisions.
Key Responsibilities
1. Religious Leadership
- Lead the five daily prayers, Jumu’ah, and Eid prayers.
- Deliver khutbahs (sermons) that are relevant, inspiring, and grounded in Islamic teachings.
- Collaborate with ICEB leadership and provide guidance on daily Salah schedules, including prayer times and seasonal adjustments.
- Offer religious guidance consistent with mainstream Sunni scholarship.
- Organize and lead Taraweeh prayers and community activities during Ramadan.
- Officiate Nikah ceremonies, Janazah services, and other lifecycle events.
2. Education
- Develop and lead regular educational programs for all ages.
- Place special emphasis on youth education, including:
- Youth-specific halaqas and Q&A sessions.
- Interactive programs that address youth identity, challenges, and spirituality.
- Engagement with teens and young adults on contemporary issues through an Islamic lens.
- Teach Seerah, Tafsir, Hadith, Fiqh, and general Islamic studies.
- Assist with Sunday School curriculum and instruction.
- Offer educational programs for new Muslims and those exploring Islam.
3. Youth Engagement & Mentorship
- Serve as a role model, mentor, and accessible guide for ICEB’s youth.
- Create and support programs that encourage youth participation in the masjid and community life.
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports the emotional and spiritual needs of young people.
- Collaborate with youth committees or volunteers to organize recreational, social, and spiritual activities for youth.
4. Community Engagement & Pastoral Care
- Offer family and marriage counseling, conflict mediation, and individual spiritual guidance.
- Visit sick or elderly community members to provide support.
- Maintain accessible and regular office hours for community members (as feasible per position type).
5. Conflict Resolution
- Act as a neutral, trusted mediator to help resolve personal or community conflicts.
- Address disputes with wisdom, confidentiality, and fairness.
- Promote unity and uphold an inclusive, healthy Islamic environment.
6. Collaboration & Compliance
- Work closely with ICEB’s Administration and Shura in executing programs and initiatives.
- Adhere to ICEB’s bylaws and policies, including:
- Global moonsighting for Ramadan, Eid, and other observances.
- ICEB’s administrative decisions and programming protocols.
- Participate in interfaith and community outreach efforts when appropriate.
Qualifications
- Formal Islamic education from a recognized institute (Alim, Hafiz, or equivalent degree). Hafiz is highly recommended.
- Fluent in English (required); fluency in Arabic or Urdu is a plus.
- Strong communication skills, especially with youth and families.
- At least 3 years of experience serving as an Imam or religious leader in North America is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to connect with youth and address their spiritual and social challenges.
Personal Characteristics
- Upholds high standards of Islamic character and integrity.
- Approachable, trustworthy, and youth-friendly.
- Emotionally intelligent and compassionate.
- Committed to the holistic growth of the community and the next generation.
Position Flexibility
ICEB welcomes applications for either a full-time or part-time Imam role. During the selection and negotiation process, we will collaboratively define a clear scope of work based on mutual fit and availability. Compensation, hours, and expectations will be aligned accordingly.