Lead Chef for Senior Dining & Menu Innovation

Railside Assisted Living Center; United States; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Railside Assisted Living Center is seeking an experienced Chef to provide high-quality dining for residents, balancing preferences with dietary needs and aging-related nutrition. You will lead culinary staff, plan menus, manage kitchen operations, and ensure food safety compliance with HACCP and ServSafe standards.

This salaried role requires a culinary degree or certification, strong leadership, reliable time management, and the ability to adapt recipes for geriatric dining.

Qualifications

• Degree as Chef from a culinary institute or certified program, or Restaurant/Food and Beverage management; or significant experience in food service and sanitation.
• HACCP/ServSafe certification and knowledge of geriatric dietary needs; strong emphasis on food safety and sanitation.

Responsibilities

• Menu planning with resident preferences and dietary considerations; maintain inventory for 3 days of meals and emergency supplies.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served on time and at proper temperature; establish standardized recipes and production guides.
• Lead staff in cooking, training, and supervision; manage scheduling and labor to control overtime.
• Monitor sanitation and cleanliness; ensure proper storage and food handling practice.
• Comply with regulatory guidelines (HFA, Health Department, SERVSAFE) and maintain accurate documentation.
• Participate in resident dietary assessments and customize nutrition plans as needed.
• Assist in marketing outreach through meal programs and guest events.
• Oversee live herb wall if applicable and use fresh herbs when possible.
• Maintain budget compliance for food, beverages, supplies, equipment, and labor.
• Collaborate with Resident Services Coordinator on nutrition-related issues and program planning.
• Promote a safe, clean kitchen environment and adherence to HIPAA policies.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food safety

Staff training

Dietary knowledge

Time management

Education

Culinary degree or certification

Tools

ON SHIFT

Job description

Railside Assisted Living Center is seeking an experienced Chef to provide high-quality dining for residents, balancing preferences with dietary needs and aging-related nutrition. You will lead culinary staff, plan menus, manage kitchen operations, and ensure food safety compliance with HACCP and ServSafe standards.

This salaried role requires a culinary degree or certification, strong leadership, reliable time management, and the ability to adapt recipes for geriatric dining.