Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
We're not just a senior living management company-we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in ... The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety ...
Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
We're not just a senior living management company-we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in ... The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety ...
Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
We're not just a senior living management company--we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in ... The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety ...
Culinary Director
Charles City, IA · On-site
We're not just a senior living management company--we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in ... The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $43K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$28K - $38K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$28K - $38K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$34K - $46K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $45K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$33K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$31K - $42K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Specialist
$32K - $44K/yr
Enlisted • Both Overview Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventories and records, and contributing directly to ...
Culinary Management information
See Iowa salary details
$30.1K - $34.1K
4% of jobs
$34.1K - $38.1K
10% of jobs
$41.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$38.1K - $42.1K
13% of jobs
$42.1K - $46.1K
9% of jobs
$46.1K - $50.1K
6% of jobs
The median wage is $53K / yr.
$50.1K - $54.1K
12% of jobs
$54.1K - $58.1K
15% of jobs
$60.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$58.1K - $62.2K
14% of jobs
$62.2K - $66.2K
9% of jobs
$66.2K - $70.2K
5% of jobs
$70.2K - $74.2K
4% of jobs
$30.1K
$53.1K
$74.2K
How much do culinary management jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for culinary management in Iowa is $53,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $61,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Culinary Management, and why are they important?
To excel in Culinary Management, you need a solid background in culinary arts, food safety, and business administration, typically supported by a culinary degree or hospitality management certification. Familiarity with kitchen management systems, inventory software, and health regulations is essential. Strong leadership, time management, and interpersonal skills help managers motivate teams and deliver excellent customer experiences. These abilities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, maintaining high standards, and achieving business success in a competitive food service industry.
What can you do with a culinary management degree?
A culinary management degree prepares individuals for leadership roles in food service operations, such as restaurant manager, food service director, or catering manager. It provides skills in kitchen management, budgeting, staff supervision, and customer service, often complemented by certifications like ServSafe. Graduates can work in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or food production facilities.
What is the difference between Culinary Management vs Food Service Management?
| Aspect | Culinary Management | Food Service Management |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Often requires culinary certifications or degrees | May require hospitality or business management certifications |
| Work Environment | Kitchen, culinary operations, restaurant kitchens | Front-of-house, restaurant, catering, hospitality settings |
| Industry Usage | Used in restaurants, hotels, culinary schools | Common in restaurants, catering, hospitality industry |
| Job Focus | Food preparation, menu development, kitchen management | Customer service, staff supervision, operational management |
While Culinary Management focuses on kitchen operations and culinary skills, Food Service Management emphasizes overall restaurant or hospitality service and staff supervision. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.
What does a culinary manager do?
A culinary manager oversees kitchen operations, including food preparation, staff management, inventory control, and ensuring food safety standards. They coordinate menu planning, manage budgets, and maintain quality to deliver a positive dining experience.
What are some common challenges faced in culinary management, and how can new managers effectively address them?
Culinary managers often encounter challenges such as balancing food quality with cost control, managing diverse kitchen staff, and handling high-pressure service periods. New managers can address these by fostering clear communication, implementing standardized procedures, and maintaining strong relationships with both staff and suppliers. Staying organized and consistently monitoring inventory and labor can also help prevent common issues like food waste or scheduling conflicts. Building a supportive team environment encourages collaboration and smooth kitchen operations.
What does culinary management do?
Culinary management involves overseeing food service operations, including menu planning, staff supervision, budgeting, and ensuring food quality and safety. Professionals in this role often coordinate kitchen activities, manage staff schedules, and implement standards to deliver a consistent dining experience.
What is the highest paying culinary career?
The highest paying culinary careers are executive chefs, culinary directors, and restaurant owners, with executive chefs earning salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Advanced management skills, extensive experience, and certifications like the Certified Executive Chef (CEC) can contribute to higher compensation in these roles.
What is culinary management?
Culinary management is the field focused on overseeing the operations of restaurants, kitchens, and other food service establishments. It combines culinary arts with business and management skills, including menu planning, budgeting, staff supervision, food safety, and customer service. Culinary managers are responsible for ensuring food quality, efficiency, and profitability while also following health regulations. This profession often requires both formal education and hands-on experience in the food industry.
What are popular job titles related to Culinary Management jobs in Iowa? For Culinary Management jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Culinary Management jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Culinary Management jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Culinary Management jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Culinary Management job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.
Job description
At Better Living, we believe every stage of life should be filled with purpose, dignity, and joy.
We're not just a senior living management company-we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in hospitality, and committed to doing what's right for residents, families, and staff. Our communities are built on meaningful connections, personalized support, and everyday moments that matter.
This is senior living, only better.
Benefits:
Position Summary
The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining experience that reflects our 'Expect Better' brand promise. This role goes beyond food production - it is about creating meaningful moments, supporting resident independence, leading with heart, and contributing to occupancy growth through hospitality excellence.
The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety compliance, budget management, team leadership, and resident engagement - while supporting Better Living's Resident-Led Initiative philosophy and Better Days Memory Care program.
At Better Living, dining is not a department. It is an experience.
Resident Experience & Hospitality Leadership
Culinary Operations
Regulatory Compliance
Financial Accountability
Team Leadership
Sales & Occupancy Support
Qualifications
Core Competencies
Physical Requirements
We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
We're not just a senior living management company-we're a team driven by compassion, grounded in hospitality, and committed to doing what's right for residents, families, and staff. Our communities are built on meaningful connections, personalized support, and everyday moments that matter.
This is senior living, only better.
Benefits:
- Compensation:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- 401 (K) matching
- Professional development opportunities
- Employee assistance programs
Position Summary
The Culinary Director at Better Living is a strategic leader responsible for delivering an exceptional dining experience that reflects our 'Expect Better' brand promise. This role goes beyond food production - it is about creating meaningful moments, supporting resident independence, leading with heart, and contributing to occupancy growth through hospitality excellence.
The Culinary Director leads all dining operations including menu development, food safety compliance, budget management, team leadership, and resident engagement - while supporting Better Living's Resident-Led Initiative philosophy and Better Days Memory Care program.
At Better Living, dining is not a department. It is an experience.
Resident Experience & Hospitality Leadership
- Create a restaurant-style dining experience aligned with Better Living standards.
- Build meaningful relationships with residents and families.
- Implement Resident-Led Initiatives including menu input sessions, culinary committees, themed dining events, and resident recipe spotlights.
- Ensure individualized accommodations for preferences, allergies, therapeutic diets, and cultural needs.
- Partner with Life Enrichment to integrate food into purposeful programming.
- Support tour experiences and marketing events to drive occupancy.
Culinary Operations
- Develop and execute seasonal menus in partnership with approved vendors.
- Maintain consistency in presentation, portioning, and quality standards.
- Ensure therapeutic diets are implemented accurately in collaboration with nursing and care teams.
- Maintain inventory control systems and cost tracking.
- Oversee kitchen production schedules and staffing coverage.
- Lead catering for internal events, marketing functions, and family nights.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with state assisted living regulations and local health department requirements.
- Maintain ServSafe certification (or state equivalent).
- Ensure proper documentation of temperature logs, cleaning schedules, food storage compliance, and diet modifications.
- Participate in state surveys and respond promptly to any deficiencies.
Financial Accountability
- Manage food and kitchen labor budget.
- Maintain target food cost percentages.
- Monitor waste and implement waste reduction strategies.
- Participate in monthly budget review with Executive Director.
- Contribute to NOI improvement through operational efficiency.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, hire, onboard, and train culinary staff.
- Promote a culture of accountability and heart-first leadership.
- Conduct performance reviews and coaching conversations.
- Maintain staffing levels aligned with occupancy and census.
- Support cross-department collaboration.
Sales & Occupancy Support
- Participate in tours when appropriate.
- Partner with Sales Director and Executive Director for special events.
- Ensure dining experience supports closing confidence.
- Provide sample menus and culinary storytelling for marketing use.
Qualifications
- 3+ years culinary leadership experience (senior living, hospitality, healthcare, or restaurant preferred).
- Experience managing kitchen staff and food budgets.
- Knowledge of therapeutic diets preferred.
- ServSafe Certified (or ability to obtain).
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends for events.
Core Competencies
- Hospitality mindset
- Emotional intelligence
- Operational discipline
- Financial acumen
- Resident-centered service
- Regulatory awareness
- Team development
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Exposure to kitchen heat and cleaning chemicals.
We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.