Culinary Director – Senior Living Hospitality Leader

Better Living; Dixon (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off and holidays

401 (K) matching

Professional development opportunities

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

The Culinary Director at Better Living leads all dining operations across our senior living communities, delivering a restaurant-style dining experience aligned with our 'Expect Better' brand. You will oversee menu development, food safety, budget management, and team leadership while embodying a heart-first, resident-centered approach.

This role partners with Life Enrichment, Sales, and Executive leadership to drive occupancy through hospitality excellence, resident engagement, and tailored

Qualifications

• 3+ years culinary leadership experience in senior living, hospitality, healthcare, or restaurant sectors.
• Experience managing kitchen staff and food budgets.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets preferred.
• ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain).
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends for events.

Responsibilities

• Lead all dining operations, menu development, and food safety compliance.
• Oversee budget management, inventory, and cost tracking.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, and train culinary staff; conduct performance reviews.
• Partner with Life Enrichment and Sales to support occupancy through hospitality.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and proper documentation for health and safety.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Hospitality mindset

Regulatory awareness

Financial acumen

Job description

The Culinary Director at Better Living leads all dining operations across our senior living communities, delivering a restaurant-style dining experience aligned with our 'Expect Better' brand. You will oversee menu development, food safety, budget management, and team leadership while embodying a heart-first, resident-centered approach.

This role partners with Life Enrichment, Sales, and Executive leadership to drive occupancy through hospitality excellence, resident engagement, and tailored