About Town of Salem:
The Town of Salem is a dynamic and fast-growing community in southern New Hampshire, ideally located with direct access to I-93 and close proximity to Boston, the seacoast, and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. As the 7th largest municipality in the state, Salem offers a unique blend of suburban charm and economic vitality.
Home to attractions like Canobie Lake Park and the expansive Tuscan Village development, Salem is a regional hub for shopping, dining, housing, and recreation. The town boasts excellent schools, including a strong Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, diverse housing options, and a high quality of life supported by accessible healthcare and abundant open space.
Recreational opportunities include the 5-mile Town Forest trail network and the expanding Salem Rail Trail, which connects to nearby communities and transportation corridors. Salem is proud of its strong support for veterans and Town Council-Town Manager form of government to guide its future growth.
With a commitment to fiscal responsibility, modern infrastructure, and community services, Salem continues to attract residents and businesses alike. Learn more at salemnh.gov.
The Town of Salem seeks a Community Services Director responsible for providing dynamic leadership and daily administration of the Community Services Department. This role oversees the design, implementation, and delivery of programs and services that enhance quality of life for Salem residents. The Director ensures the effective management of personnel, budgets, facilities, and equipment, while fostering community engagement and promoting public trust in Town programs.
FLSA: Exempt
Accountability: This position reports directly to the Assistant Town Manager.
Affiliation: SPAA Affiliation
What You'll Do:
(This list is illustrative and not all-inclusive. Please refer to the full job description below for complete details.)
- Provide strategic direction and daily oversight for the Community Services Department, including supervision of staff and management of facilities.
- Develop and implement departmental standards, policies, and procedures to ensure safety, efficiency, and accountability.
- Prepare, present, and administer the departmental operating budget to the Town Manager, Town Council, and Budget Committee.
- Oversee capital improvement projects, including planning, design, and construction of parks, recreation facilities, and senior center initiatives.
- Lead community outreach, public relations, and program promotion through public speaking, media relations, and partnerships with civic groups.
- Evaluate and manage operational needs, staffing levels, and program sustainability.
- Oversee the maintenance, accessibility, and safety of facilities such as the Senior Center and recreational areas.
- Coordinate seasonal hiring, staff training (including CPR and incident management), and ensure compliance with Town hiring policies.
- Maintain and update the department's social media presence and public communications.
- Collaborate with the Council on Aging and Recreation Advisory Committee on program development and community engagement initiatives.
Director of Senior Services and Recreation Programs-Job Description
Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree in Recreation, Social Services, or related field required.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in recreation or social services administration.
- At least 3 years of experience in budget preparation and financial oversight.
- Proven leadership, supervisory, and administrative skills.
- Strong communication, organizational, and strategic planning capabilities.
- Ability to work effectively with staff, the public, and community partners.
- Valid motor vehicle operator's license required.
Additional Information:
What We Offer: Benefits are provided by the Town and described in the SPAA Collective Bargaining Agreement, and include the following:
Annual paid time off: 15 vacation days; 12 earned sick days; 2 personal days, and 13 holidays.
Health, and Vision Insurance HSA - Employee pays:
- $62.81/ week for family coverage.
- $46.50/week for 2-person coverage.
- $23.09/ week for single coverage.
Dental Insurance: Employee pays:
- $13.12/ week for family coverage.
- $5.75/ week for family coverage.
- $0.00/week for single coverage.
If an employee already has qualifying insurance, the Town will pay $5,000 annually to waive coverage.
- Disability Insurance: 70% of base wages for up to 26 weeks.
- Life Insurance: Equal to base annual earnings to a maximum of $100, 000
- New Hampshire Retirement System: Defined benefit pension plan.
- Tuition reimbursement for pre-approved courses.
The Town of Salem is an equal opportunity employer.
Application Instructions:
Interested candidates must complete a Town of Salem Employment Application and submit a resume and cover letter. Applications will be held in confidence. Candidates will be rated based on education, assessment, training, and experience related to the job requirements. Please provide complete and accurate educational and employment information. Pre-employment testing includes educational and criminal background checks.
Internal candidates may apply in accordance with the SPAA Collective Bargaining Agreement up through October 31, 2025. Closing Date: Open until filled.