Senior Employment Programs
Welcome to the Senior Employment Programs
At the Senior Employment Bureau, part of the New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD), we’re committed to helping older adults age 55 and up access meaningful, skill-building employment opportunities. Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, gain hands-on training, or explore a new career path, we’re here to support your journey toward greater independence and fulfillment.
Want to know if you qualify?
Answer the following questions:
- Are you 55 years of age or older?
- Are you unemployed?
- Do you earn a low or no income? (We will help you determine the income criteria.)
- Do you wish to work in your community?
- Do you want to be paid to learn new skills through on-the-job training?
Our Partners
We collaborate with a network of agencies dedicated to uplifting New Mexico’s seniors, including:
University of New Mexico Community Health Workers – supporting outreach and empowerment through community-based services
Non-Metro New Mexico Area Agency on Aging – Senior Employment Program – extending job placement and training support to communities
A variety of local nonprofits and public agencies that offer real-world training sites, job search assistance, and mentoring. These partnerships allow us to reach across the state and ensure seniors have the tools and support to succeed.
What it is the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)?
SCSEP is a work-based job training program for older Americans, authorized by the Older Americans Act.
Who does SCSEP serve?
The program targets low-income, unemployed seniors who are at least 55 years old.
How does SCSEP work?
Eligible participants are placed in part-time roles at nonprofit and public agencies, where they gain hands-on experience and earn a modest income with wages paid directly by ALTSD.
Training and Skills:
Participants receive paid training and gain valuable skills and experience in a variety of community service activities.
Placement:
Participants are placed in host agencies, which are non-profit or governmental organizations.
Goal:
The program aims to help participants transition to unsubsidized employment.
Examples of host agencies:
Schools, hospitals, day-care centers, senior centers, and other community organizations.
Examples of training positions:
Customer service representative, maintenance worker, teacher assistant, childcare worker, food preparation worker, retail salesperson, and shipping and receiving clerk.
Program Components:
Assigned Coordinator, Subsidized Training, Job development and placement, post-placement support, job skill training, resume building, job clubs
Senior Employment Program (SEP).
Modeled after SCSEP and supported by general funds, SEP offers similar services to help older New Mexicans succeed in today’s job market.
Helpful Resource Links
If you’re an experienced worker 50 and up, the following websites can help you find a position that fits your abilities and meets your needs.
If you want to brush up on your technology skills, use these free websites.
Helpful Links
Links to Partner Sites
Other SCSEP Opportunities
Providers
Senior Employment Bureau Staff
Bureau Chief: Natasha Montoya: Natasha.Montoya@altsd.nm.gov
Program Coordinator: Enriquez McKenzie: Enriquez.McKenzie@altsd.nm.gov
Employee Representative: Vacant
Become a Host Agency
Why Partner with Us?
- ALTSD pays participant wages—no cost to your agency
- Gain part-time support
- Make a lasting impact in your community
What Host Agencies Do?
- Provide a safe, supportive training environment
- Offer supervision and mentorship
- Help participants build skills and confidence
Benefits to Your Organization
- Boost capacity without increasing payroll
- Support your mission with skilled, motivated workers
- Receive support from ALTSD.