Title Culinary Operations Coordinator, Full-time
Department Visitor Experience
Reports to Director of Visitor Experience
Position Summary The Culinary Operations Coordinator is responsible for all food production, inventory management, purchasing, food safety compliance, kitchen operations, and catering for Palette Café. This position ensures consistent food quality, efficient kitchen operations, compliance with health and safety regulations, and exceptional food service for guests of the museum. The Culinary Operations Coordinator works closely with the Director of Visitor Experience and Palette Café Supervisor to support the museum's hospitality goals and maintain the high standards of the Flint Institute of Arts.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Prepare and oversee all menu items, ensuring consistent food quality, presentation, portioning, and adherence to established recipes and standards
- Train staff on food preparation procedures, food safety standards, and kitchen best practices, serving as a resource for culinary and food safety questions
- Develop weekly specials and contribute to menu planning and seasonal offerings
- Ensure timely preparation of food and beverages to support daily café operations
- Manage inventory levels for food and beverage, purchasing, and product receiving
- Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, ServSafe standards, sanitation requirements, and proper foodhandling, storage, and temperature controls
- Monitor food production, quality, and waste to maximize efficiency
- Maintain a clean, organized, and operationally ready kitchen, storage, and food preparation areas
- Monitor kitchen equipment and coordinate maintenance and repair needs
- Plan and prepare food and beverage service for meetings, staff gatherings, and museum events
- Collaborate with the Palette Café Manager to ensure seamless coordination between front-of-house andback-of-house operations
- Support the Palette Café Manager during absences, peak business periods, and special events
- Maintain awareness of museum programming and support a collaborative, mission-driven environment
- Communicate regularly with the Director of Visitor Experience regarding kitchen operations and food safety needs
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Visitor Experience
Requirements & Qualifications This role offers an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional to oversee food production and kitchen operations while supporting the visitor experience at one of the region's premier cultural institutions.
- Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts preferred; equivalent experience considered.
- 3-5 years of food service, culinary, catering, or kitchen management experience.
- Knowledge of food preparation, inventory management, purchasing, vendor relations, cost control, and food safetyregulations.
- Catering and special event experience preferred.
- ServSafe Manager and TIPS/TAM certification preferred or ability to obtain.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills with attention to detail.
- Experience training and mentoring staff preferred.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and special events as required.
- Reliable transportation required for weekly resupply errands.
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.
- Must be able to endure shifts of up to twelve hours on your feet. This position requires standing, walking, lifting, grasping, reaching, pushing, pulling, bending, and kneeling. Adequate breaks will be taken when time allows.
To apply Cover letter and resume required. Submissions accepted via Indeed or emailed to [email protected]. No phone calls.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Remote work not applicable to this position.
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
