Director of Culinary Services

Milestone Retirement; Baker City (OR); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision (full-time)

401(k) with employer match

Generous PTO

Pet insurance

Perks at Work

Employee Assistance Program

Voluntary benefits options

Job summary

Milestone Retirement is seeking a Director of Culinary Services to lead all aspects of the Culinary Service Department and dining room operations. You will oversee meals, safe food handling, and resident dining experiences, reporting to the Executive Director.

The role starts at $22 per hour and includes managing culinary staff, controlling expenses, and ensuring compliance with special diets and safety standards.

Qualifications

• ServSafe Certification required; must obtain/hold any local, state, or county required licenses.
• Minimum three years of experience in food service preparation and managing staff.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently, and make timely, sound decisions.

Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and coach staff in the Culinary Department, fostering teamwork and high performance.
• Follow the community Menu Program and approved purchasing practices, ensuring nutritional standards are met.
• Prepare meals in accordance with residents’ preferences and safe food handling standards.
• Maintain proper food temperatures, storage, and equipment usage to meet all health department regulations.
• Ensure positive resident experiences during meal service by monitoring satisfaction and addressing preferences.
• Provide input to the Executive Director on hiring, training, performance evaluations, and staff development.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and dining area, including equipment, storage, and preparation surfaces.
• Ensure compliance with all sanitation, culinary, and safety guidelines.
• Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

ServSafe Certification

Food service management

Communication skills

Staff coaching/leadership

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Two years continuing education preferred

Job description

Why You’ll Love Working at Milestone

Milestone is one of the fastest-growing senior living operators, with 100+ years of combined industry and hospitality experience. We focus on teamwork, creativity, and making a real impact for our residents and staff.

Perks & Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision (full-time employees)
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous PTO
• Pet insurance
• Perks at Work
• Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary benefits options

About The Role

We’re seeking a skilled Director, Culinary Services to lead all aspects of our Culinary Service Department and dining room operations. Reporting to the Executive Director, you’ll ensure residents enjoy high-quality meals, safe food handling, and exceptional dining experiences. This position has a starting wage of $22 per hour. You’ll also manage culinary staff, control expenses, and ensure compliance with special diets and safety standards.

What You’ll Do

• Plan, direct, and coach staff in the Culinary Department, fostering teamwork and high performance
• Follow the community Menu Program and approved purchasing practices, ensuring nutritional standards are met
• Prepare meals in accordance with residents’ preferences and safe food handling standards
• Maintain proper food temperatures, storage, and equipment usage to meet all health department regulations
• Ensure positive resident experiences during meal service by monitoring satisfaction and addressing preferences
• Provide input to the Executive Director on hiring, training, performance evaluations, and staff development
• Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and dining area, including equipment, storage, and preparation surfaces
• Ensure compliance with all sanitation, culinary, and safety guidelines
• Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality
• Perform other duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; two years of continuing education preferred
• Minimum three years of experience in food service preparation and managing staff
• Current ServSafe Certification required; must obtain/hold any local, state, or county required food handling licenses
• Must meet health requirements, including TB testing, and pass background check
• Compassion for and desire to work with older adults
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to perform well under pressure, resolve conflicts, prioritize tasks, and show initiative
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and professionalism
• Self-motivated, able to work independently, and make timely, sound decisions

Join Milestone to lead a supportive culinary team, create memorable dining experiences for residents, and make a meaningful impact every day.

Milestone is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.