Employment Programs
The Employment Programs Bureau includes two Older Worker Programs. These programs partner with senior centers, other aging network providers, and public and private employers to provide jobs, job training and employment services throughout NM. The 50+ The Older Worker Connection sponsors Job Clubs in Santa Fe and Albuquerque and has a Resource Center in Santa Fe.
Older Worker Programs
Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)
The Aging and Long-Term Services Department manages one of the five federally funded SCSEPs in New Mexico. Enrolled trainees are paid minimum wage for twenty hours per week. They are placed in not-for-profit or governmental organizations, known as host agencies. Host Agencies work with their assigned trainees to prepare them for transition into unsubsidized employment. Enrollees’ income must be 125% of poverty or lower; they must be at least 55 years old, unemployed and residents of New Mexico. Enrollees are not state employees, but are paid through the state system. At intake, an assessment of job skills and interests is conducted. On-site host agency supervisors are responsible for conducting evaluations of enrollees and assisting with assessments. The program helps to cover the costs of an annual physical for each enrollee and assists with some work-related expenses, such as the cost of eyeglasses, uniforms, and shoes.
New Mexico Senior Employment Program
This program operates similarly to the Senior Community Service Employment Program, however, as program is state-funded, the Department may grant waivers of income, hours, salary and training requirements. The majority of the funds in this program are contracted to the Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging to fund older workers who serve in aging network provider sites. The Department administers the balance of the positions.
50+ Older Worker Connection
- Ensures that mature workers are prepared for and secure meaningful employment.
- Works with employers to create awareness of the value of mature workers.
- Recruits and refers well qualified mature applicants who meet the workforce needs of employers.
The 50+ Connection includes an Older Worker Resource Center located in the Department's Santa Fe office, furnished and equipped with computers, tables, chairs, a sitting area and a library of resources for older workers and employers. Job clubs are also provided in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Staff provides personal assistance to job seekers, including discussing work history and goals, providing information on various employers' processes for job application, assistance with resume preparation, employment counseling and guidance on interviewing techniques.