Food Services and Preparation Lead

The Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) operated by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) is seeking an experienced Food Services professional to oversee the efficient and smooth operations of the trayline and kitchen areas of the hospital. You will lead a team of staff members, assigning duties and providing on-the-job training as needed. Your attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high-quality standards will ensure that meals are prepared and served in accordance with specific dietary requirements. Additionally, you will be responsible for maintaining accurate records and logs within the Food and Nutrition Department.

This position requires strong supervisory skills, knowledge of therapeutic diets, and a keen eye for detail. Our selected candidate will be responsible for overseeing trayline operations, training employees, ensuring food is prepared and served in accordance with dietary requirements, maintaining records, and upholding high-quality standards. By promoting cleanliness and safety in the work area, you will contribute to a positive dining experience for patients. WRCH provides inpatient services to 290 adults and 30 adolescents, inclusive of a Deaf Inpatient Mental Health Service program for 10 patients.

Please Note: The schedule is 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM with Sunday/Monday as the days off.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

• Direct trayline staff and oversee day-to-day operations, assigning duties to Food Service Workers as required.
• Prepare and serve food according to special dietary requirements specified on meal tickets, ensuring adherence to instructions.
• Ensure preparation and cooking of simple dishes, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and similar items.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and logs within the Food and Nutrition Department, ensuring proper documentation of food service activities.
• Provide comprehensive on-the-job training and orientation to new employees, ensuring their understanding of job responsibilities and promoting a smooth integration into the team.
• Conduct thorough inspections of completed work to guarantee compliance with established quality standards.
• Inspect assigned areas to assess adherence to prescribed procedures and confirm that work has been executed correctly.
• Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of food preparation and serving areas, employing appropriate supplies and equipment for cleaning purposes.
• Maintain the cleanliness of floors through regular sweeping and mopping, utilizing suitable supplies and equipment.
• Clean and sanitize interior walls, floors, kitchen equipment, prep tables, food delivery carts, and other surfaces, utilizing appropriate supplies and equipment.
• Safeguard the cleanliness and appearance of mop closets and storage areas by cleaning them with appropriate supplies and equipment.
• Empty waste receptacles promptly and dispose of waste in a proper manner, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene standards are maintained.

Required Qualifications:

• Skilled in following precise and clear oral and written instructions.
• Demonstrated capability in providing precise and understandable oral and written instructions.
• Proficient in comprehending and applying the protocols, rules, and regulations governing the Food Service Department.
• Strong familiarity with the principles, practices, and techniques of overseeing assigned work areas.
• Working knowledge of the various types and uses of utensils and equipment employed in preparing and serving food.
• Thorough understanding of safety and sanitation practices and procedures adhered to in the preparation and serving of meals.
• Extensive experience in maintaining cleanliness and organization in food service areas, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.
• Demonstrated proficiency in training and orienting new employees in food service operations.
• Proven ability to inspect completed work for quality assurance, ensuring adherence to established standards.
• Skilled in performing regular cleaning and maintenance tasks for maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a supervisory or leadership role within a healthcare food service operation or hospitality setting.
• Strong knowledge of dietary restrictions and ability to accommodate special diets.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to effectively communicate instructions and provide feedback.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and promote a positive and inclusive work culture.
• Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word and Outlook.
• Given the population served, bilingual or multilingual fluency.

About Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH):
Located on over 20 acres in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) is part of an integrated network of effective, efficient, and culturally competent mental health services. It provides intermediate and long-term inpatient care for individuals with serious and persistent mental illness who live in Massachusetts, as well as individuals requiring specialized court ordered evaluations.

WRCH provides inpatient services to 290 adults and 30 adolescents, inclusive of a Deaf Inpatient Mental Health Service program for 10 patients.

Learn more about WRCH: Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) | Mass.gov

DMH Mission Statement:

The Department of Mental Health assures and provides access to services and supports to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages, enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. The Department establishes standards to ensure effective and culturally competent care to promote recovery. The Department sets policy, promotes self-determination, protects human rights and supports mental health training and research.

Pre-Offer Process:

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines.

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website

If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements:

Applicants must have at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in building custodial or institutional housekeeping work.

Special Requirements: None

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!