FOOD SERVICE MANAGER

Job Title: Food Service Manager
Location: Nursing Home, New York
Department: Food Services
Job Summary:

The Food Service Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the food service department at a nursing home. This role ensures that all food served meets the dietary needs of residents while adhering to safety, quality, and regulatory standards. The manager will lead a team of kitchen staff and work closely with dietitians, healthcare providers, and other departments to provide exceptional service and quality meals to residents.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage Food Service Operations: Oversee all food service functions, including meal preparation, presentation, and delivery to residents. Ensure that meals are nutritious, appetizing, and meet individual dietary needs, including specialized diets.

• Supervise Staff: Hire, train, and supervise kitchen staff, including cooks, dietary aides, and servers. Foster a positive and efficient work environment that emphasizes teamwork, safety, and quality service.

• Compliance & Safety: Ensure food preparation and handling comply with all applicable regulations, including local, state, and federal health and safety standards (e.g., NYS Department of Health regulations, FDA guidelines). Maintain sanitation standards and ensure that kitchen equipment is in good working order.

• Menu Planning: Collaborate with dietitians and healthcare professionals to create weekly meal plans that meet the nutritional needs of residents. Adjust menus as needed based on resident preferences, seasonal availability, and dietary restrictions.

• Budgeting and Cost Control: Monitor food inventory, ordering, and purchasing. Ensure cost-effective purchasing and minimize food waste while maintaining quality standards. Assist in budget preparation and work to stay within budgetary constraints.

• Resident Interaction: Respond to resident and family concerns regarding meal quality, dietary preferences, and special requests. Provide excellent customer service to ensure resident satisfaction.

• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of food service activities, including inventory logs, meal plans, and compliance reports. Prepare and submit required reports to senior management and regulatory bodies.

• Staff Training and Development: Provide ongoing training to staff on food safety, dietary guidelines, and customer service. Ensure staff are up-to-date with certifications and safety protocols.

• Collaboration: Work closely with the nursing, activities, and administrative teams to ensure that food service supports the overall care plan for residents. Participate in interdisciplinary care meetings as needed.

Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management, Hospitality, or related field preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of food service management experience in a healthcare or institutional setting (e.g., nursing homes, hospitals, senior living facilities) is preferred.

• Certifications: ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification required. Additional certifications in food safety or nutrition are a plus.

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and team management skills.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with residents, staff, and management.

  • Knowledge of dietary needs for elderly or medically fragile populations.

  • Proficiency in food service management software and inventory systems.

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

  • Detail-oriented with a focus on quality control and safety compliance.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. regularly and up to 50 lbs. occasionally.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform tasks in a kitchen environment.

• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as needed.

Compensation:

Competitive salary based on experience, with a benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan options.