Program Manager - Senior Center

Catholic Charities; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 62,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago seeks a Program Manager for the Senior Center to oversee operations, programming, and partnerships that support wellness and lifelong learning for older adults.

The role emphasizes service excellence, regulatory compliance, and growth of programs. Bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years’ related experience are required; Master’s preferred. Evening events may be required, with strong MS Office and data-tracking skills essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3–5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to build relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple programs, schedules, and priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data systems; some evenings/events may be required.
• Spanish language proficiency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and programs at the Senior Center.
• Develop engaging programs promoting wellness, learning, and social connection.
• Build partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders.
• Lead and develop staff, instructors, volunteers, and support personnel.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Relationship-building

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Data tracking

Job description

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.

Role Overview

Program Manager - Senior Center leads all aspects of Senior Center operations, programming, community partnerships, and team development to deliver high-quality, inclusive services that promote wellness, engagement, lifelong learning, and meaningful connections for older adults while ensuring operational excellence, participant satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and continuous program growth.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations, administration, and facility coordination of the Senior Center to ensure high-quality services, efficient operations, and a positive participant experience. Develop, implement, and evaluate engaging programs that promote wellness, recreation, lifelong learning, enrichment, and social connection for older adults. Manage program schedules, registrations, participant records, communications, and operational systems to support effective service delivery. Coordinate vendors, contractors, and resources required to support center activities, events, and ongoing programming. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, safety procedures, and all applicable regulations governing program operations. Foster a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and participant-centered environment that promotes dignity, belonging, and engagement for all seniors.
• Monitor program participation, outcomes, and participant feedback to evaluate effectiveness and drive continuous improvement. Identify opportunities to expand program offerings, enhance participant engagement, and improve operational efficiencies that advance the Senior Center's mission and impact. Create and maintain participant communications through engaging print materials, creative marketing efforts, and a strong digital presence that increases awareness and participation.
• Build, strengthen, and maintain partnerships with community organizations, service providers, local stakeholders, and civic partners to expand resources and opportunities for older adults. Represent the Senior Center within the community and cultivate collaborative relationships that support participant needs and program growth. Support outreach, marketing, and community engagement initiatives that increase visibility, participation, and community awareness of Senior Center services and programs.
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments to align services, share resources, and ensure coordinated support for older adults participating in Senior Center programs.
• Lead and develop Senior Center staff, instructors, volunteers, interns, and program support personnel by setting clear goals and expectations, monitoring performance, and providing regular feedback and guidance. Inspire team excellence by modeling accountability, collaboration, and solution-oriented thinking, and ensure team members are supported, empowered, and high-performing while fostering a positive, purpose-driven culture.
• Develop staff capability through ongoing training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Cultivate a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and improvement to strengthen team engagement, retention, and impact.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
• Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
• Lift, push, and pull up to 10 lbs

Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:

• Background check

Education and Experience Requirements:

Minimum

• Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience
• Demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills, with knowledge of community resources, stakeholder networks, and the needs of older adults.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple programs, schedules, and priorities simultaneously, develop participant-centered programs, and build partnerships with community organizations, parishes, service providers, and local stakeholders.
• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data tracking or registration systems, and the ability to work occasional evenings or special events as needed.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Arts/Sciences (MA/MS) in related field of study 5+ years relevant experience
• Possess experience supervising staff, volunteers, or contractors.
• Professional proficiency in English and Spanish (written and spoken).
• Knowledge of aging services, wellness programming, and community resources for older adults.
• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data tracking or registration systems, and the ability to work occasional evenings or special events as needed.

Certifications and Licensure

• Minimum Obtain CPR and First Aid certification within the first 12 months of employment.
• Preferred CPR and First Aid certification.

$62,000 - $65,000 / year

Pay Transparency

In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 (820 ILCS 112/5, et seq.), Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is required to provide the wages and benefits that it reasonably expects in good faith to offer for any specific job positions posted. Please note that the exact compensation package ultimately offered to an applicant may vary based on skills, experience, and location, amongst other permissible factors.

Locations

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Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and consideration for employment is made without regard to: race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Catholic Charites is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an email to [e-mail] or call 312-655-7127 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.