Elderly Services Program Manager

newhavenct.gov; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

City of New Haven is seeking an Elderly Services Program Manager to oversee a multi‑purpose senior center, coordinating programs, events, and resources for adults 60+. You will lead staff, volunteers, instructors, and partners to create a welcoming, healthy, and engaging space.

The role requires organizational prowess, strong communication, and a dedication to serving older residents. Evening/weekend availability may be required, with bilingual English/Spanish ability preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Gerontology, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field.
• One to three years’ experience with older adults; Spanish/English bilingual preferred.
• In lieu of a Bachelor’s Degree, an additional 4 years of directly related experience may be substituted.

Responsibilities

• Manages opening and closing procedures of the designated facility.
• Coordinates daily programming, supervises instructors and contract providers.
• Organizes special events, outreach, and community outings; maintains participant database.
• Assists with monthly reports, grant documentation, and volunteer coordination.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Public speaking

Organizational skills

Bilingual Spanish/English

Microsoft Office

Data collection

Email and calendar apps

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Gerontology, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or related field

4+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree

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

Possession of a valid Connecticut driver’s license. May be required to travel to sites throughout the city.Must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications.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 2/3NoneUnder 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.Job description pending Civil Service approval.This position is included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.Bargaining agreements available to review HERE.General Funded hires into this class shall not be covered by Social Security but rather the City pension, contributing 10% of salary.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.

Selection Plan

Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources. Applicants must demonstrate within their submission that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification. Applicants meeting minimum requirements may be invited to participate in a Civil Service exam process at a later date.It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to ascertain if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. This information may be used to determine the eligibility list. As such, this job announcement should be considered the exam announcement, and submissions may be evaluated prior to the posted closing date.Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.