Culinary Director — Senior Living Kitchen Leader

Clearwater Living; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent benefits

401(k) contributions

Paid Vacation and Sick leave

Exciting growth opportunities

Dynamic work environment

People‑first culture

Job summary

Clearwater Living is seeking a Culinary Director to lead the culinary team at our Ahwatukee community in Phoenix, AZ. The role oversees Cooks and Dishwashers, drives from-scratch menus using local ingredients, and upholds high standards of food quality and service for residents, guests, and staff.

This leadership position requires strong vision, budget oversight, safety compliance, and the ability to maintain timely, high‑quality meals in a fast-paced senior living environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts or Hospitality preferred.
• Combination of formal training from related culinary school and experience in overseeing restaurant and dining operations.
• Serve Safe certification preferred.
• First Aid Certification required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct the Culinary department and manage staff.
• Supervise production, presentation and food costs; create a balanced rotating menu.
• Serve as liaison between guests, residents, and culinary staff with cross‑functional communication.
• Resolve resident complaints regarding food quality or service.
• Establish a Food Committee or survey residents to tailor menus to preferences.
• Ensure sanitary work environment and compliance with health codes and safety policies.
• Develop and implement policies to ensure timely food readiness and proper temperatures.
• Back up culinary staff when needed and ensure dining room cleanliness.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Staff supervision

Budget management

Food service operations

Training & development

Guest communication

Sanitation & safety

Education

Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts or Hospitality

Formal culinary training

Job description

Clearwater Living is seeking a Culinary Director to lead the culinary team at our Ahwatukee community in Phoenix, AZ. The role oversees Cooks and Dishwashers, drives from-scratch menus using local ingredients, and upholds high standards of food quality and service for residents, guests, and staff.

This leadership position requires strong vision, budget oversight, safety compliance, and the ability to maintain timely, high‑quality meals in a fast-paced senior living environment.