Community Kitchen Coordinator

The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory•Burnaby, BC

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The Community Kitchen Coordinator is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. The role ensures the safe and efficient operation of the community kitchen while creating a welcoming environment that promotes dignity, belonging, and community connection. Working closely with volunteers, clients, and community partners, the Community Kitchen Coordinator leads meal preparation, menu planning, food purchasing, inventory control, and food safety practices. The incumbent also supports community meal programs and kitchen activities that bring people together, helping to meet practical needs while fostering positive relationships and supporting the mission of The Salvation Army.

Requirements

Completion of a formal post-secondary program of one academic year.
Food Safe Certification.
Emergency First Aid and WHMIS certification (or willingness to obtain).
Experience working in community outreach, nonprofit, church, or social service environments.
At least one year of experience in food service, commercial kitchen operations, hospitality, or community food programming.
Knowledge of food safety regulations and safe food handling practices.
Experience coordinating volunteers or teams.
Strong organizational and administrative skills.
Valid BC Drivers license and a Driver's abstract.
Ability to lift and move food supplies and kitchen equipment up to 30 pounds as needed.
Ability and willingness to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion (i.e., The Salvation Army Abuse Registry) and provide an original copy of a Background Check screening.

Nice To Haves

Willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.
Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures.
Communicate the mission and values of The Salvation Army with integrity and respect.
Demonstrate compassion, hospitality, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills when working with clients, volunteers, staff, and community members.
Have the ability to help individuals feel welcomed, values and connected within in the life of the Corps/Church.
Build positive relationships and communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Exercise initiative, sound judgment, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends for programs and events.
Work effectively both independently and as part of a team, providing leadership when required and actively contributing to day-to-day operations.

Responsibilities

Prepare and serve weekly community meals for 100+ guests, working alongside volunteers to ensure meals are delivered safely, efficiently, and with hospitality.
Plan menus, organize food supplies, and prepare nutritious meals that support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Lead hands-on cooking and meal preparation activities that help participants develop practical cooking, nutrition, meal planning, and budgeting skills.
Maintain a welcoming and respectful dining environment that promotes dignity, inclusion, community connection, and reflects the mission of The Salvation Army.
Assist with menu planning, food preparation, and kitchen coordination for seasonal programs, special events, and community gatherings.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen, including all food preparation, storage, and service areas.
Operate and care for kitchen equipment, ensuring it is properly maintained and used safely.
Follow and enforce all health regulations, food safety standards, sanitation requirements, and safe food handling practices.
Order food and kitchen supplies, monitor inventory levels, and coordinate the receipt and storage of food donations.
Ensure food is stored, rotated, and handled appropriately to minimize waste and maintain quality.
Support efficient kitchen operations by maintaining organized workspaces, supplies, and inventory systems.
Assist with the orientation, training, and scheduling of volunteers supporting kitchen and meal programs.
Work collaboratively with volunteers during food preparation, meal service, and community events.
Provide guidance and support to volunteers to ensure food is prepared and served safely and efficiently.
Promote a positive, welcoming, and team-oriented environment that reflects hospitality, respect, and compassionate service.
Other related work duties as assigned.