Thrive 55+ Supervisor

Groton; Groton (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

HSA contribution

Pension/457 plan

Deferred compensation

Life insurance

Employee assistance program

Wellness program

Paid holidays

Professional development

PSLF eligible employer

Job summary

The Town of Groton seeks a dedicated Thrive55+ Supervisor in the Parks and Recreation Department. This role leads a six-member team, directing health, nutrition, transportation, and advocacy programs for residents aged 55 and older, while ensuring fiscal responsibility and strong community partnerships.

Responsibilities include strategic planning, budget management, grant administration, and program evaluation to align with town priorities and public service standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public-related field plus five years admin/management of community programs.
• Master’s degree may substitute for part of experience with at least three years in management.
• Strong leadership, judgment, budgeting, and partnership skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and oversight for Thrive55+ services.
• Develop and manage the division budget and funding opportunities.
• Foster partnerships with social services, healthcare providers, and community orgs.
• Lead a team of six full-time staff and supervise operations.

Skills

Budget management

Grant management

Team leadership

Public speaking

Partnership development

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Master's degree may substitute for experience

Job description

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodations to complete the selection process should inform the Human Resources Office as soon as possible.

Documentation supporting the need for this accommodation may be required.

The Town of Groton seeks a dedicated and community-focused professional to fill the role of Thrive 55+ Supervisor in the Parks and Recreation Department. The Supervisor will direct and manage comprehensive programs, services, and facility operations dedicated to enriching the lives of older residents. This position plays a key role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality health, nutrition, and advocacy initiatives while leading the team, managing operational budgets, and fostering vital partnerships with local social services and community agencies. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership expertise, sound administrative judgment, and a commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and exceptional public service. This is a non-union, exempt, full-time position.

Groton is located on the shoreline in southeastern Connecticut and is home to a diverse community that celebrates inclusivity. The Town is active in economic development and diversification, and is conveniently located midway between New York and Boston. Groton boasts diverse educational options, historic sites, attractions, and outdoor spaces, for a balanced quality of life.

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels; it is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and encourages all individuals to apply.

The total rewards package for this position includes the following:

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Employer HSA contribution
• Traditional Pension, or 457 Defined Contribution, Retirement Plan
• Optional Deferred Compensation plans (Roth IRA or 457(b))
• Employer sponsored life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness activities and resources
• Generous accrued leave time (Vacation and Sick)
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Professional Development Opportunities
• The Town is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer

Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodation to complete the selection process should inform the Human Resources Department on or before the application deadline. Documentation supporting the need for this accommodation may be required. Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Thrive55+ Supervisor serves as the administrative and managerial leader for the Thrive55+ Division within the Department of Parks and Recreation, providing strategic direction, operational oversight, and leadership for a team of six full-time team members. The position is responsible for the planning, administration, coordination, and evaluation of comprehensive services and initiatives serving residents age 55 and older, including health and wellness, transportation, nutrition, advocacy, and community engagement.

The Supervisor provides leadership in establishing division goals, policies, and priorities; develops and manages the division budget; identifies and administers grant and other funding opportunities; supports and oversees personnel growth, and organizational operations; and develops effective partnerships with municipal departments, social service agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. The position ensures that Thrive55+ services are effectively managed, responsive to community needs, fiscally responsible, and aligned with the strategic priorities of the Department and Town.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

The knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this position are generally acquired through a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Public Health, Social Work, Recreation Administration, Gerontology, Human Services, or a closely related field, supplemented by five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the administration, management, and oversight of community-based programs and services. A master’s degree in a related field may be substituted for a portion of the required experience, with a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in a comparable administrative or management role.

An equivalent combination of education, training, and progressively responsible experience may be considered in lieu of the stated education and experience requirements. The position requires demonstrated leadership and organizational abilities, strong verbal, written, and presentation skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to effectively manage personnel, budgets, programs, and community partnerships.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

Must possess and maintain a Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:

Review and screen of applications/resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral examination(s).