CDM: Culinary Leader for Resident Dining Excellence

Nutrition Therapy Essentials; Santa Rosa (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Nutrition Therapy Essentials, based in San Jose, CA, seeks an experienced Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) with strong culinary skills to lead the daily operations of our Food and Nutrition Services Department. You will mentor kitchen staff, ensure regulatory compliance, and create high-quality meals aligned with therapeutic diets.

Responsibilities include overseeing food production, menu execution, HACCP, CMS compliance, and collaboration with the Registered Dietitian to meet resident

Qualifications

• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential required.
• ServSafe Manager Certification preferred or required within established timeframe.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of dietary management experience in healthcare or long-term care.
• Strong culinary background with scratch cooking, recipe development, and large-volume meal production.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets, texture modifications, and food allergies.
• Understanding of CMS regulations and food safety standards (Title 22 CA preferred).
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with dietary software and Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operation of the dietary department including food production, meal service, sanitation, and staffing.
• Lead and mentor dietary staff through coaching, training, and performance management.
• Prepare and supervise high-quality meals that meet nutritional standards.
• Collaborate with the Registered Dietitian to ensure therapeutic diets are accurately prepared and served.
• Maintain compliance with CMS and health department regulations; HACCP practices.
• Develop standardized recipes and ensure portion control and food quality.
• Manage food purchasing, inventory, and budget while minimizing waste.
• Plan and coordinate special meals and resident-centered dining programs.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching & training

Culinary expertise

Nutrition knowledge

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Menu planning

Therapeutic diets knowledge

Education

Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential

Tools

Dietary software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Nutrition Therapy Essentials, based in San Jose, CA, seeks an experienced Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) with strong culinary skills to lead the daily operations of our Food and Nutrition Services Department. You will mentor kitchen staff, ensure regulatory compliance, and create high-quality meals aligned with therapeutic diets.

Responsibilities include overseeing food production, menu execution, HACCP, CMS compliance, and collaboration with the Registered Dietitian to meet resident