Director of Council on Aging

Job Description

JOB TITLE:                           DIRECTOR OF THE COUNCIL ON AGING/SENIOR CENTER

DEPARTMENT:                   COUNCIL ON AGING

EMPLOYMENT TYPE:        FULL-TIME/EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION:        NON-UNION/MANAGEMENT

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of older adults? Do you have the vision, energy, and leadership skills to inspire a dynamic team and create a vibrant community for our seniors? If so, we want YOU to be our next Director of the Council on Aging!

The Council on Aging Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, programming, and administration of the Pittsfield Senior Center. This role involves advocating, developing and implementing programs that meet the social, recreational, educational, and health needs of seniors in the community. The Director will work closely with staff, volunteers, local government agencies, and community organizations to provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for seniors.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administer, direct and coordinate activities of the Council on Aging/Senior Center; Develops plans, policies, and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of senior services.
• Provide direct assistance to seniors, addressing their individual needs and connecting them with appropriate resources and services.
• Creates, manages, and monitors annual operating budget and capital improvement plan.
• Prepares agenda for Council on Aging meetings, provide reports, monitor performance of services/programs, make recommendations for new or modified services/programs, advise Council on Aging regarding legislative and government issues, as well as new findings and trends in gerontology and program/service needs.
• Develop and build relationships with state and local officials, community leaders, and citizens groups serving senior citizens, health care providers, and senior citizens.
• Coordinate the purchase of materials required to operate the Senior Center and the Council on Aging.
• Research grant opportunities; prepare grant applications; administer grant funding received.
• Supervise the operation of the transportation system for seniors and other various programs.
• Explore additional sources of funding, as well as assistance from health and human service agencies in sponsoring programs and events for seniors.
• Act as a representative and liaison of the City and Council on Aging.
• In collaboration with the Building Maintenance Department, oversees and requests the maintenance of the Senior Center facility and equipment; ensures compliance with building and fire codes.
• Gathers and interprets data regarding demographic changes as they relate to future senior service needs, developing strategic plans in order to prepare and respond to these needs.
• Supervisory activities which may include but is not limited to: responsibility for performance management including annual reviews, hiring, scheduling work hours/granting time off, providing training and development, assigning/reviewing work, rewarding/disciplining employees, and conducting regular/monthly staff meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, gerontology, or related field.
• Five (5) – Seven (7) years of experience in senior services, community center management, or a related field, including supervisory experience.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• CPR/First Aid certification highly desirable.
• Requires broad knowledge of federal, state, and local services available to the elderly.  Requires the ability to use initiative, persuasion, tact and judgment in advocating for the City’s seniors with local, state and federal officials, and other agencies.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills; Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in budget management and grant writing.
• Familiarity with the needs and challenges of the senior population; firm understanding of local laws and ordinances, and Massachusetts General Laws as they pertain to human services and elderly welfare
• Requires the ability to build a positive team environment, manage and motivate staff; Familiarity with personnel/HR practices.
• Requires strong computer skills including familiarity with Microsoft office, ability to learn relevant software related to position and City employment. 

WORKING CONDITIONS (The characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

This is an office-based job in a dynamic municipal building.  While performing the duties of the Director the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

Operates standard office equipment including computers and keyboards, at efficient speed; and moves throughout the Senior Center and other municipal offices as needed/required. Lifts/moves objects weighing up to 20 pounds.

HOURS

Monday – Friday, 37.5 hours per week, 8:00am – 4:00pm (occasional evening and weekend work may be required for meetings and special events.)

SALARY RANGE

$69,063 - $89,781 annually

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

Applications accepted until May 19, 2026 @ 4:00pm or until the position is filled.

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Wellness programming for employee and family
• Incentives for bilingual individuals