Senior Living Culinary Director Elevate Dining Experience

Addington Place of Carroll; Carroll (IA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

Addington Place of Carroll is seeking a Director of Culinary Services to lead daily operations, plan menus, and ensure high‑quality dining experiences for residents. The role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on leadership in a high‑volume kitchen.

The position emphasizes menu planning, safety, and cost controls, with collaboration across departments to align food services with community goals and resident satisfaction. Strong leadership and food safety credentials are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of culinary leadership in high‑volume, high‑standard environments (e.g., country clubs, resorts, cruise ships).
• Hands‑on experience leading kitchen operations, including cooking and staff oversight.
• Food Safety Certification required.
• Strong knowledge of sanitation, food handling, and loss prevention practices.
• Culinary training or certification preferred.
• Experience with menu engineering, cost controls, and vendor management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and kitchen management systems.
• Experience in senior living culinary services is a plus—but only if paired with demonstrated high service standards.
• Ability to lift or assist with kitchen operations as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily culinary operations while participating in meal preparation and service.
• Plan and execute menus that meet resident dietary guidelines and preferences.
• Monitor food quality, consistency, and presentation; implement improvements as needed.
• Ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and dietary standards.
• Conduct food safety audits and quality assurance checks.
• Oversee purchasing, inventory control, and vendor contracts.
• Manage budgets, monitor costs, and take corrective action when needed.
• Manage, recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate culinary staff.
• Lead orientation and in‑service training programs for team members.
• Engage with residents during mealtimes to ensure satisfaction and resolve concerns.
• Collaborate with Executive Director and department heads to align food services with community goals.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Staff oversight

Budget management

Food safety

Menu planning

Leadership

Education

Food Safety Certification

Culinary training or certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Kitchen management systems

Job description

Addington Place of Carroll is seeking a Director of Culinary Services to lead daily operations, plan menus, and ensure high‑quality dining experiences for residents. The role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on leadership in a high‑volume kitchen.

The position emphasizes menu planning, safety, and cost controls, with collaboration across departments to align food services with community goals and resident satisfaction. Strong leadership and food safety credentials are essential.