Food Service Coordinator/Chef

Employment Services Elgin; St. Thomas; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative facility is seeking a Food Service Coordinator to lead kitchen operations and ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. This role involves meal planning, inventory management, and training volunteers while fostering a welcoming environment. With a focus on exceptional care and dietary needs, the Coordinator will play a crucial part in enhancing the dining experience for residents. Join a dedicated team in a fast-paced setting, where your culinary expertise and leadership skills will make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families in the community.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years’ experience in the Hospitality or Restaurant industry required.
• Certified in Safe Food Handling.

Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
• Prepare nutritious meals catering to dietary needs and preferences.

Skills

Culinary Skills

Food Safety Knowledge

Leadership

Budget Management

Adaptability

Education

Post-secondary diploma in Culinary Arts

Tools

Kitchen Appliances

Inventory Management Systems

Job description

Opening its doors in the summer of 2025, Hospice of Elgin is redefining end-of-life care for individuals and families in Elgin County. Our ‘cottage-like’ facility will have the honor of caring for individuals and their families by providing expert care at end-of-life.

Hospice of Elgin will provide wrap-around care to individuals by addressing pain & and symptoms, while also supporting the psycho-social, spiritual and practical needs of the individual. At Hospice, we are committed to supporting exceptional care at the end of life.

Report to the Manager of Hospice Care, the Food Service Coordinator, who is responsible for supporting day-to-day operations within the Hospice kitchen. The Food Service Coordinator will ensure that all Public Health and Health and Safety standards are met and continually reinforced, all equipment is maintained in good, safe working order, and all work is completed in a manner that promotes the safety of all.

Compensation

$45,000 to 50,000/annually

Key accountabilities of the Food Service Coordinator include, but are not limited to…

Kitchen Operations & Safety

• Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and infection prevention practices and control.
• Enforce proper sanitation, food handling, and preparation procedures in alignment with Ontario Food Premises Regulation (O. Reg. 493/17) and Hospice policies.
• Ensure preparation and cooking stations are clean, organized, and adequately stocked.
• Notify the Manager of Hospice Care of any required repairs or maintenance to kitchen appliances or equipment.
• Develop, implement, and maintain policies and procedures related to kitchen operations and food safety.
• Ensure safe storage, labelling, and timely disposal of food and beverages.

Meal Planning & Preparation

• Prepare nutritious meals and snacks that support the dietary needs and preferences of residents, including special diets (e.g., soft foods, diabetic, low-sodium).
• Review, revise, and implement menu plans to reflect seasonal availability, individual preferences, nutritional guidelines and special diets.

Inventory & Purchasing

• Order and maintain inventory of kitchen supplies, groceries, and non-perishable goods to ensure adequate stock levels.
• Develop and implement an organized inventory system for tracking kitchen supplies and food items.
• Create grocery lists and purchase needed items within the approved budget parameters.
• Serve as the first point of contact for kitchen volunteers.
• Collaborate with the People and Culture Coordinator to schedule volunteers and coordinate training and orientation.
• Orient, mentor, and provide ongoing training and knowledge sharing with kitchen volunteers and staff.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all.

Compliance & Recordkeeping

• Maintain a record of staff and volunteer Food Handler Certifications.
• Participate in audits, inspections, and quality improvement activities as required.
• Adhere to and enforce all Hospice policies and applicable regulatory standards.
• Liaise with care staff to ensure meals align with individual dietary needs and care plans.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with all others regarding food-related needs or concerns.

Other

Perform other duties assigned to support the Hospice of Elgin’s Noble Purpose.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and /or ability required.

• Post-secondary diploma in Culinary Arts or Hospitality is required.
• 3-5 years’ experience in the Hospitality or Restaurant industry required.
• Certified in Safe Food Handling.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and direct a volunteer team.
• Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic and changing environment.
• Knowledge of dietary needs with specialty diets.
• Knowledge of cost analysis, fiscal management, and budgeting techniques.

Additional Requirements

• Proof of vaccinations may be required.
• Driver’s License and reliable access to a vehicle.

Working Conditions

• Manual dexterity is required to operate various kitchen appliances and equipment.
• Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
• Standing and walking.
• Fast-paced environment.

How to Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Hospice of Elgin is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including but not limited to women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Application Acknowledgment

We thank all applicants for their interest in joining our team. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.