Director of Culinary ExperienceLove to make a difference in the lives of seniors?
At Solera Senior Living, we are guided by our Core Values—Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and Creativity—in everything we do. We are seeking a Director of Culinary Experience who is passionate about hospitality, nutrition, and team leadership, and who is committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences that enhance residents’ quality of life.
What Solera Offers You
A growing company with opportunities for career advancement
Immediate pay access — no more waiting for payday
Tuition reimbursement to support your professional growth
Comprehensive medical benefits with discounted gym memberships
Dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid holidays and paid time off
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Perks and employee discount programs
Supportive, team-oriented workplace culture
Position Overview
The Director of Culinary Experience leads all culinary operations for the community, ensuring high-quality, nutritious meals are prepared and served in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. This role oversees menu planning, food preparation, sanitation, budgeting, inventory control, and team development while ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
The Director of Culinary Experience partners closely with the General Manager and interdisciplinary team to align dining services with resident preferences, clinical needs, and Solera hospitality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development
Hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate culinary team members
Provide coaching, performance feedback, and disciplinary recommendations as needed
Conduct in-service training and ongoing education for culinary staff
Ensure appropriate coverage and continuity of service at all times
Culinary Operations & Resident Experience
Plan, prepare, and oversee the delivery of all meals served in the community
Develop menus in accordance with regulatory requirements, nutritional standards, and resident preferences
Visit residents regularly to understand likes, dislikes, and dietary needs
Support therapeutic and special diets in coordination with care teams and physician orders
Assist with meal preparation as needed to support service excellence
Food Safety, Compliance & Sanitation
Maintain compliance with ServSafe, food handling, and sanitation standards
Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local food service regulations
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen and dining environment
Inspect food storage, supply areas, and equipment regularly
Budgeting, Inventory & Purchasing
Manage food, supply, and labor costs within approved budget guidelines
Order food and supplies; maintain accurate inventories and portion controls
Prepare annual budget requests and monitor monthly spending
Implement systems to ensure quality, consistency, and cost control
Operations, Documentation & Collaboration
Maintain accurate documentation including menus, evaluations, purchase orders, and policies
Participate in daily leadership stand-up meetings
Assist with resident care planning and attend care conferences as applicable
Support community marketing efforts through tours, events, and special programs
Plan and prepare food for activities, marketing events, and special occasions
Perform other duties as assigned by the General Manager
Required Qualifications & Experience
High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or education in food service, hospitality, or leadership preferred
ServSafe / Food Handler’s Certification required (or ability to obtain)
Supervisory or leadership experience in culinary operations; healthcare or senior living experience preferred
Knowledge of quantity food production, nutrition, and therapeutic diets
Ability to manage budgets, inventory, and food cost controls
Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make sound decisions under pressure
Passion for serving older adults and enhancing their daily dining experience
Solera Senior Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
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