Director of Food Service (Outley House)

SELF Inc.; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

SELF Inc. is seeking a Food Service Director to oversee all aspects of food service operations. The role involves meal planning, staff supervision, and ensuring compliance with health codes while providing nutritious meals to diverse populations. Candidates should have significant experience and qualifications in culinary arts or food management.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Generous paid time off

Flexible work schedules

401(k) matching program

Professional development programs

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in food service operations.
• At least 4 years in a commercial kitchen environment.
• 5+ years of staff supervision experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the food service program.
• Supervise and train food service staff and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Nutrition

Food Preparation

Kitchen Safety

Sanitation Standards

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Team Leadership

Education

Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, or Nutrition

Tools

Microsoft Office

Kitchen Inventory Systems

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: PHILADELPHIA, PA

Salary Range: Undisclosed

Description

Department: Food Services

Shift: Varies depending on operational needs

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Position Summary:

The Food Service Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization’s food service operations, including meal planning, food preparation, procurement, compliance, staff supervision, and kitchen safety. This leadership role ensures high-quality, nutritious, and culturally appropriate meals are provided in accordance with health codes, contract requirements, and organizational values. The Food Service Director manages teams that operate out of a commercial kitchen and serve diverse client populations, including those in shelters and housing programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the food service program, including meal planning, production, delivery, and service.
• Supervise and train food service staff, volunteers, and kitchen assistants; foster a collaborative and accountable team culture.
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local health and safety regulations (including ServSafe guidelines).
• Maintain inventory, order food and supplies, and establish vendor relationships in alignment with budget and nutrition standards.
• Develop and implement menus that meet the dietary needs of the community served, in coordination with program leadership and nutritionists (as needed).
• Monitor food costs, waste, and budget compliance; implement cost-saving strategies without compromising quality or nutrition.
• Oversee maintenance and sanitation of all kitchen equipment and facilities.
• Manage scheduling, timesheets, and evaluations of food service staff.
• Collaborate with program teams and case managers to align food service delivery with programmatic needs.
• Ensure compliance with any relevant funding or regulatory requirements, including food safety audits and inspections.
• Support community engagement by participating in food drives, donor relationships, and volunteer events as needed.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• An associate's or bachelor’s degree in culinary arts, Food Service Management, Nutrition, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in food service operations, with at least 4 years in a commercial kitchen environment.
• 5+ years of staff supervision or team leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of nutrition, food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation standards.
• ServSafe Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).
• Demonstrates ability to plan and manage food service budgets and inventory.
• Must have experience working with vulnerable populations (e.g., individuals experiencing homelessness, seniors, youth, or low-income families) preferred.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and kitchen inventory systems.
• Ability to lift to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in hot/cold environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• An associate's or bachelor’s degree in culinary arts, Food Service Management, Nutrition, or a related field.
• Bilingual or multilingual is a plus.
• Experience in a nonprofit, institutional, or human services setting.
• Familiarity with USDA, CACFP, or other food program compliance guidelines.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules.
• 401(k) matching program.
• Professional development programs, as well as leadership training.

SELF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran and/or disability status.