Culinary & Dining Services Leader
Reports to: Community Executive Leader
Overview of the Opportunity
A senior living community is seeking an experienced Food Service Director to lead all
aspects of dining operations. This role is part of the community’s leadership team and
plays a critical role in supporting resident satisfaction through high-quality nutrition,
service excellence, and regulatory compliance.
The Food Service Director is responsible for managing kitchen operations, overseeing food
service staff, controlling costs, and ensuring meals meet both nutritional standards and
resident preferences. Success in this role requires strong leadership, operational
discipline, and a commitment to safe food handling practices.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Dining Operations & Food Quality
- Coordinate the preparation and service of daily meals for residents and associates, including holidays and special events
- Oversee menu planning to ensure meals are nutritious, appealing, and aligned with the dietary needs of older adults
- Ensure consistent execution of kitchen standards, policies, and procedures
- Maintain appropriate food, supply, and equipment inventory levels while monitoring costs
- Regularly inspect kitchen and dining areas to ensure cleanliness, safety, and proper equipment functionality
Regulatory Compliance & Food Safety
- Maintain continuous compliance with local, state, and federal health department regulations
- Ensure that a certified Food Protection Manager is present during food preparation and service, as required
- Apply HACCP principles and best practices for food safety and sanitation
- Maintain required documentation and certification readiness for inspections Resident & Family Engagement
- Foster positive relationships with residents and families by maintaining open communication regarding dietary needs and preferences
- Respond to feedback and collaborate with community leadership to enhance the dining experience
Team Leadership & Workforce Development
- Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise food service team members
- Provide ongoing coaching, direction, and performance feedback to kitchen staff
- Participate in new associate onboarding, 90-day evaluations, and annual performance reviews in collaboration with the Executive Director.
- Document coaching conversations and corrective actions in accordance with community guidelines.
- Deliver food service and kitchen safety training programs for all dietary associates.
- Identify and support a secondary team member to serve as a backup certified Food Protection Manage.
Professional Qualifications & Experience
Required Experience
- Minimum of five (5) years of professional dietary or food service experience
- Demonstrated experience supervising kitchen staff, planning menus, and managing inventory
- Prior experience in senior living, healthcare, or similar regulated environments preferred
Knowledge & Skills
- Working knowledge of HACCP standards and food safety regulations
- Understanding of the nutritional requirements of older adults
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Proven organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Ability to collaborate effectively with leadership, staff, residents, and families
- Occasional travel may be required
Certification Requirement
- Must obtain and maintain an active ServSafe Food Protection Manager
Certification or an equivalent ANSI-accredited Food Protection Manager certification
- Certification must remain current and available for review during Health
Department inspections.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
