Director of Office for the Aging, Schoharie County

Position and Department
This position plans, develops, coordinates, and directs the services, programs and activities of the Office for the Aging. It is professional and administrative work involving responsibility for directing the programs and activities of the office, including research, planning, policy making and public relations. This office attempts to improve the status and condition of the aging population through various services and programs, and in certain cases the provision of necessary direct assistance. The work is performed under general direction of the Board of Supervisors in conformance with local, state and federal laws, rules, and regulations with wide latitude allowed in the administration of the overall program. Supervision is exercised over the work of subordinate employees. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative Only)

• Plans, organizes, promotes and directs services and activities designed to meet the needs of older adults;
• Evaluates and assesses the needs of older adults and the effectiveness of agencies and organizations
  providing services;
• Supervises administrative functions such as budgeting, grant administration, finance, personnel and purchasing;
• Develops and administers an area plan for programs on aging;
• Participates in collaborative efforts with other County agencies, non-profits and community-based organizations in the creation and implementation of programs and services which benefit older adults;
• Contacts public officials and community leaders to obtain and encourage cooperation and action in setting up programs for the aging population;
• Provides leadership and advocacy on behalf of older adults in the County;
• Provides technical assistance to various community agencies and organizations regarding services and programs;
• Conducts research on the needs of older adults and develops proposals and alternative approaches for meeting such needs;
• Supervises counseling and referral services for the aging population;
• Conducts and attends pertinent conferences, workshops, trainings and seminars;

The Ideal Candidate
The Director of Office for the Aging will serve a crucial role in the success of the Schoharie County economy through the support of the planning, execution, and monitoring of services to our growing population of older adults.
Key attributes of a successful candidate include:

• A willingness to collaborate interdepartmentally.
• Strong analytical skills
• Knowledge of governmental operations
• Effective communication skills

The Community
Schoharie County, once celebrated as the breadbasket of the American Revolution, epitomizes rural charm amidst the scenic backdrop of the Catskill Mountains and Mohawk Valley. Its rich agricultural legacy and fertile landscape have shaped a community of nearly 30,000 residents, spread across sixteen towns and six historic villages. These villages offer quaint, walkable neighborhoods brimming with diverse shops, cozy eateries, and immersive experiences. From farm stands showcasing locally grown produce to charming shops offering artisanal goods, Schoharie County embodies a commitment to its agricultural roots. With its idyllic setting and warm community spirit, Schoharie County is a tranquil haven to call home.
Conveniently located just three hours from bustling New York City and a short 30-minute drive from the state capital of Albany, Schoharie County offers the best of both worlds—a serene rural lifestyle with easy access to major metropolitan areas. The county is a hub for award-winning craft beverage producers, captivating historical sites like the Old Stone Fort, and awe-inspiring natural wonders such as Vroman’s Nose, Howe Caverns and Mine Kill State Park. As a result, Schoharie County has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking to explore this hidden gem of New York.Moreover, Schoharie County stands at the intersection of economic innovation and agricultural excellence, with SUNY Cobleskill and the Institution for Rural Vitality. These educational entities offer experiential learning opportunities focused on agriculture and entrepreneurship, contributing to the vitality of agriculture across the entire United States.
Serving Schoharie County and its neighboring communities, Cobleskill Regional Hospital (CRH), an integral part of the Bassett Healthcare Network, attained prestigious recognition in 2024. It was honored as one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the U.S. by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, distinguishing it as the sole hospital in New York State to achieve such distinction.
Strategically positioned within the Mohawk Valley regional economic development district and designated as part of the Appalachian Region by the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Southern Tier, Schoharie County is well-positioned to capitalize on its participation in these initiatives. Leveraging funding sources and actively participating in key initiatives such as expanding broadband coverage and investing in strategic corridor developments, Schoharie County is poised for continued growth and prosperity in the years to come.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Possession of a bachelor’s degree or higher in Public Health, Health Care Administration, Public Administration, Social Work, Nursing, Gerontology, one of the Behavioral Sciences, or a closely related field; AND three (3) years of administrative-level supervisory experience in a human services organization.

NOTE: This class requires extensive travel. Incumbents will be required to possess a valid, appropriate-level, New York State Motor Vehicle operator’s license, or otherwise demonstrate the ability to meet the travel needs of the job.

Compensation and Benefits
The starting salary is $70,327 to $85,976 annually, with a full benefits package including health insurance, vision, dental, and New York State Retirement.

How to Apply
Applications are available at Personnel and Civil Service – Schoharie County, New York (schohariecounty-ny.gov)

Candidates interested in being considered for this position must submit a completed employment application to the Schoharie County Department of Personnel & Civil Service to 284 Main Street, PO Box 675, Schoharie, NY 12157 (e-mail: civilservice@co.schoharie.ny.us) by the close of business on June 3, 2024