Corrections Food Service Director — Operations & Compliance

Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Middleton (MA); On-site; USD 88,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

Essex County Sheriff’s Department is seeking a Food Services Director to act as the primary operational liaison with the contracted food service provider, ensuring compliance, safety, and efficiency in inmate food service operations.

The role oversees daily vendor performance, conducts inspections for sanitation and security, coordinates with custody staff, and reports on diet adherence and contract compliance to management.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent; two years military experience preferred.
• Experience with vendor management, food service oversight or correctional operations.
• Familiarity with MA DOC and DPH food service regulations.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations; ServSafe certification and therapeutic/religious diet training preferred.
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and respond appropriately in emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance & Contract Oversight: ensure vendor compliance with policies and contracts; monitor menus, portions, diets and scheduling.
• Health, Sanitation & Safety: inspect kitchen/storage areas for health code and safety compliance; ensure proper cleaning, temperature control and pest management.
• Security & Reporting: follow security procedures during deliveries and meals; document sanitation/safety deficiencies and verify corrective actions.
• Operational Monitoring: verify inventory vs counts; monitor food cost, waste and efficiency; coordinate with vendor management and custody staff.

Skills

Vendor management

Food service oversight

Correctional operations

MA DOC & DPH regulations

Food safety (ServSafe)

Communication & documentation

Decision making under pressure

Education

Associate’s degree

Tools

ServSafe certification

Job description

Essex County Sheriff’s Department is seeking a Food Services Director to act as the primary operational liaison with the contracted food service provider, ensuring compliance, safety, and efficiency in inmate food service operations.

The role oversees daily vendor performance, conducts inspections for sanitation and security, coordinates with custody staff, and reports on diet adherence and contract compliance to management.