Soup Kitchen & Food Pantry Lead

The Salvation Army; East Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 36,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army USA Eastern Territory in East Cleveland is seeking a Food Pantry Lead and Soup Kitchen Lead to oversee pantry operations, menu planning, and meal service while ensuring food safety and program compliance.

This role also involves supervising volunteers, maintaining records, coordinating donations, and delivering compassionate, ethics-driven service to the East Cleveland community under the guidance of the Social Services & Volunteer Coordinator.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; 1-2 years related experience preferred.
• Two years Commercial Kitchen/Restaurant cooking experience.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing; ability to drive 12-passenger van.

Responsibilities

• Receive and stock pantry food deliveries and maintain inventory.
• Assist with client intake and eligibility verification.
• Oversee meal preparation, service, and food safety compliance.
• Supervise and train volunteers; provide orientation for new volunteers.
• Maintain records for client services, donations, and program documentation.

Skills

Food safety

Inventory management

Volunteer supervision

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Current Qualified Food Operator Certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Driver's license

Job description

Overview

Serving under the direction of the Social Services & Volunteer Coordinator, assist with the outreach and administrative services of the Soup Kitchen (Café Armee) and Food Pantry for the East Cleveland community, recognizing their spiritual, emotional, physical & social needs. The Soup Kitchen & Food Pantry Lead will support and maintain the Mission of The Salvation Army and the Vision of the East Cleveland Corps, in accordance with all applicable internal & external policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Food Pantry Lead

• Receive and stock food deliveries.
• Maintain pantry inventory and place approved food orders.
• Conduct client intake and eligibility verification.
• Assist clients with food selection following program guidelines.
• Ensure consistent pantry operations during scheduled hours.
• Maintain cleanliness, food safety, and health code compliance.

Soup Kitchen Lead

• Receive and verify food deliveries and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Order food and supplies within approved guidelines and conduct monthly inventory counts.
• Prepare menus and oversee meal preparation and service.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health code regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness of the kitchen, cafeteria, equipment, and food preparation areas.
• Supervise and train volunteers, including providing orientation for new volunteers.
• Monitor kitchen operations and report safety concerns or maintenance issues as needed.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide general program support and assist with special events, seasonal programs, and Corps activities.
• Assist with front desk operations, including answering phones, welcoming guests, and processing receipts.
• Maintain accurate records, including client services, in-kind donations, and program documentation while ensuring confidentiality.
• Support Social Services operations and related administrative tasks, including donation pickups as needed.
• Promote a safe, positive, and ethical environment for participants, volunteers, and staff.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and workshops and perform additional duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise assigned volunteers
• Assist with supervision of assigned Summer Youth participants

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED with 1-2 years of related experience preferred
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must conduct oneself in a manner which reflects credit on The Salvation Army, its leadership, and on the Lord Jesus Christ.
• Must be able to function in a fast-paced, frequently changing work environment with the ability to multi-task.
• Two years Commercial Kitchen/Restaurant Cooking Experience
• Valid Motor Vehicle Driver’s License in good standing
• Ability to drive 12 passenger van and pass required Salvation Army driving test
• Must possess strong organization skills and be detail oriented.
• Must possess a professional attitude and approach to problem-solving.
• Must be able to relate well to all people and be a team player.
• Must possess excellent communication skills.Must possess the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Must possess computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn other programs as used by The Salvation Army.
• Current Qualified Food Operator Certificate

Salvation Army Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church.

Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.

Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.