Elderly Services Program Manager

JobAps; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of New Haven seeks an Elderly Services Program Manager to oversee a multi-purpose senior center, coordinating programs, events, and member services for adults 60+. You will supervise staff, volunteers, and external speakers, while maintaining a welcoming, safe environment.

Successful candidates will bring a background in human services or recreation, strong organizational and communication skills, and a commitment to promoting health, independence, and social engagement for older

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field.
• 1–3 years' experience working with older adults in community settings.
• Spanish/English bilingualism preferred for serving a substantial Spanish-speaking community.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of a multi-purpose senior center.
• Coordinate daily programming, events, and membership registration.
• Supervise instructors, guest speakers, and contracted service providers.
• Ensure safety, health standards, and nutritional guidelines for meal programs.

Skills

Elderly care knowledge

Community resources knowledge

Public speaking

Microsoft Office

Email/Calendar/Collaboration tools

Interpersonal skills

Non-judgmental communication

Spanish/English bilingual (preferred)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Gerontology/ Social Work/ Psychology/ Human Services or related field

Tools

Outlook

Teams/Zoom

Job description

Introduction

Help Shape an Engaging Community for Older AdultsThe City of New Haven is seeking an enthusiastic, compassionate, and organized professional to serve as Elderly Services Program Manager. In this rewarding role, you will oversee the daily operations of a multi-purpose senior center, creating a welcoming environment where adults aged 60 and older can connect, learn, stay active, and access valuable community resources. Working closely with members, volunteers, instructors, and community partners, you will develop engaging programs, coordinate special events, and ensure the center remains a vibrant hub that promotes health, independence, and social engagement.This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults. If you have experience in human services, recreation, social services, or community programming—and are passionate about fostering inclusive, welcoming spaces where seniors can thrive,we invite you to join our team and help enhance the quality of life for New Haven's older residents.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

This is professional work involving organizing and directing programs for the elderly, which will be delivered either to a group or by contact with an individual in a City-managed public setting. Program activities include recreation, education, community service, as well as referral and follow-up work. The Elderly Services Program Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management and coordination of multi-purpose senior centers. This role ensures a safe, welcoming, and vibrant environment for community members aged 60 and older. The Program Manager oversees facility logistics, coordinates daily programming, and serves as the primary point of contact for members, instructors, and community partners.Evening and weekend hours may be required.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Manages the opening and closing procedures of the designated facility.Ensures common areas, activity rooms, and dining spaces are clean, organized, and properly set up for daily events.Maintains a visible presence at the center to address member concerns, provide tours, and foster a positive social atmosphere.Monitors facility maintenance needs and coordinate repairs with appropriate City department or contracted vendorsImplements a diverse calendar of activities for program participants, including fitness classes, arts & crafts, educational seminars, and social clubs.Schedules and supervises instructors, guest speakers, and contract service providers.Coordinates the daily congregate meal program, ensuring compliance with health safety standards and nutritional guidelines.Organizes and leads special events, holiday celebrations, and community outingsFacilitates program membership registration and maintains an accurate database of participants.Provides information and referrals to seniors and their families regarding local resources (e.g. housing, healthcare, nutrition assistance).Conducts intake assessments to identify the needs of new members and ensure they are connected to appropriate center services.Facilitates the membership registration process and maintains an accurate database of participants.Provides information and referrals to seniors and their families regarding local resources (e.g., housing, healthcare, nutrition assistance).Conducts intake assessments to identify the needs of new members and ensures they are connected to appropriate center services.Works closely with staff of municipal and other service providers to meet the needs of senior citizens, including entitlement programs. Also works with volunteer groups to meet these needs.Maintains records of daily attendance, program participation, and volunteer hoursAssists in the preparation of monthly reports and grant documentation.Manages the collection of fees or donations in accordance with municipal financial policies.Assists with the recruitment, training, and supervision of center volunteers.Maintains current knowledge of industry trends, technologies, and best practices and incorporates appropriate advancements into work activities.Performs related work as required.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's Degree in Gerontology, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related fieldOne to three years' experience working with older adults, preferably in a community center or social service settingIn lieu of a Bachelor's Degree, an additional 4 years of directly related experience may be substituted.Spanish/English bilingual is preferred as this position serves a substantial Spanish-speaking community.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Considerable knowledge of the physical, social, and emotional needs of the elderly.Considerable knowledge of the services available to the elderly from the federal, state, and local governments as well as from the private sector.Considerable knowledge of federal, state and local regulations related to the elderly.Skill in developing program activities for older adults.Proficiency with Microsoft Office for creating items such as documents, spreadsheets, and for data collection.Competency in using email clients (e.g., Outlook, Gmail), calendar applications, and collaboration tools (e.g. Teams, Zoom) for scheduling, managing correspondence, and participating in remote meetings.Ability to collect and maintain information and data related to program participants.Ability to deal effectively and tactfully with senior citizens, families, .Public speaking and presentation skills sufficient to facilitate group education sessions and presentations.Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including city officials, state agencies, boards and committees, staff, community organizations, and the general public.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey information to employees, community members, and other stakeholders.Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and programming needs.Must possess strong organizational skills to effectively prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.Ability to interact in a non-judgmental manner with culturally diverse populations and people experiencing a wide range of social conditions.Must demonstrate high ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality and upholding professional integrity in all interactions.Ability to identify and apply new methods, technologies, and best practices to improve work processes and outcomes.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

NOTE SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN REVISED.Possession of a valid Connecticut driver's license. May be required to travel to sites throughout the city.Must obtain CPR and First Aid Certifications within 6 months of hire.Ability to work occasional evening or weekend hours for meetings, programming, and related assignments.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical RequirementsAmount of TimeWorking EnvironmentAmount of TimeNoneUnder 1/31/3 to 2/3Over 2/3StandXWet or humidconditions (non-weather)XWalkXWork near moving mechanical partsXSitXWork in high, precarious placesXTouch, handle, or feelXFumes or airborne particlesXReach with hands and armsXToxic or caustic chemicalsXClimb or balanceXOutdoor weather conditionsXStoop, kneel, crouch, or crawlXExtreme cold (non-weather)XTalk or hearXRisk of electrical shockXTaste or smellXWork with explosivesXRisk ofradiationXLiftingor force to be exerted?VibrationXHow much and how often?Amount of TimeNoneUnder 1/31/3 to 2/3Over 2/3Up to 10 poundsXUp to 25 poundsXUp to 50 poundsXUp to 75 poundsXUp to 100 poundsXMore than 100 poundsX

SALARY, BARGAINING UNIT & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

This is a 'General Fund,' tested position.This position is included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Bargaining agreements are available to review HERE.Benefit InformationEmployees become eligible to participate in the Medical & Dental benefit plan provided for members of Local 3144. Employees may elect a medical plan including prescription drug and dental coverage, for which employees must contribute a portion of the premium cost. Benefit information can be found online HERE, under the Local 3144 Management & Professional banner.Eligible employees receive paid vacation, paid sick days, paid personal days, and paid holidays.Term Life Insurance of $20,000 is provided at no cost to the employee.Short-Term Disability coverage is also provided at no cost to the employee.General Funded hires into this class are not covered by Social Security and will not pay Social Security taxes. They instead participate in the City Pension; the employee contribution rate is 10.5% of pay.The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening accordance with the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy*, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.