Director of Dietary Services

Harbor-Village-Rehabilitation-; New London (CT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Harbor Village Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in New London, CT, is seeking a Full-Time Dining Services Director to lead the dietary team, oversee kitchen and dining operations, and ensure meals meet high standards of nutrition, safety, and resident dignity.

This role collaborates with nursing, complies with CMS and state regulations, and drives menu planning, budgeting, and staff development to deliver a superior resident dining experience.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• CDM or ServSafe Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
• 2–3 years of supervisory dining service experience in long-term care or healthcare.
• Understanding of special diets, regulatory standards in skilled nursing.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen and dining operations to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Implement and maintain seasonal and cycle menus in collaboration with a Registered Dietitian.
• Ensure compliance with state, federal, and CMS dietary regulations, including HACCP.
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise dietary staff.
• Coordinate with nursing and care plans on dietary needs.
• Monitor sanitation, safety protocols, and infection control.
• Oversee budgeting, inventory, and vendor relations.
• Promote resident-centered dining and dining room experience.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Regulatory compliance

Menu planning

Nutrition care

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Culinary / Hospitality / Nutrition education preferred

CDM (Certified Dietary Manager) or ServSafe Certification preferred

Job description

Harbor Village Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is seeking a Full-Time, Experienced Skilled Nursing Home Dining Services Director

Our Mission Statement at Harbor Village:

We strive each day to exceed our customers’ expectations while promoting our core values: Communication, Compassion, Dignity, Empathy, Integrity, Pride, Respect and Responsiveness.

The Dining Services Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service operations at Harbor Village. This role ensures residents receive nutritious, well-prepared meals while maintaining the highest standards of dignity, safety, and satisfaction. The Dining Services Manager leads the dietary team, works closely with nursing and clinical staff, and ensures full compliance with regulatory standards and dietary requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily kitchen and dining operations to ensure efficient service delivery.

• Implement and maintain seasonal and cycle menus in collaboration with a Registered Dietitian.

• Ensure compliance with state, federal, and CMS dietary regulations, including HACCP protocols.

Staff Management

• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise dietary staff, including cooks, aides, and servers.

• Provide coaching, support, and performance evaluations to maintain a strong team culture.

• Promote teamwork, professionalism, and a resident-first approach.

Resident Experience

• Ensure meals are served in an inviting, respectful, and timely manner.

• Address resident preferences, feedback, and special dietary requests.

• Participate in care plan meetings and coordinate closely with nursing on dietary needs.

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen according to health department standards.

• Enforce proper food handling, storage, portion control, and sanitation procedures.

• Monitor and audit practices to ensure infection control and safety protocols are met.

Menu Planning & Nutrition:

• Ensure therapeutic and modified diets (pureed, diabetic, low-sodium, etc.) are followed accurately.

• Work with the Registered Dietitian on nutrition care plans and documentation.

• Support resident well-being through appealing and nutritious meal offerings.

Budget & Inventory:

• Oversee ordering, vendor relationships, and inventory control.

• Manage budget, minimize waste, and ensure cost-effective operations.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required; education in Culinary, Hospitality, or Nutrition preferred.

• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) or ServSafe Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

• 2–3 years of supervisory dining service experience in long-term care, healthcare, or similar setting.

• Understanding of special diets, nutritional needs, and regulatory standards in skilled nursing.

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.