Dining Services Director

Cedarhurst of West Plains•West Plains, MO

About The Position

The Dining Services Director leads all aspects of the community’s dining program, ensuring residents, families, and guests receive nutritious, high-quality meals and exceptional hospitality. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role manages and develops the dining services team, oversees daily kitchen and dining operations, and works with vendors, community leadership, and regional dining leadership to meet food safety, infection control, and budgetary standards. The position requires flexibility to perform cook and server responsibilities. It also directs menu planning, food preparation, and special events, and contributes to resident satisfaction, marketing initiatives, and a positive service-oriented culture.

Requirements

Associate’s degree with culinary training or 3–5 years of culinary experience.
Applicable state or county licensure.
Food Manager Certification or the ability to obtain it.
Proficiency with common digital tools and applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word, web-based platforms, electronic health record systems, and applicable HR systems.
Ability to walk or stand for extended periods and move throughout the community and resident apartments.
Ability to communicate effectively and identify and interpret written information.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently and up to 200 pounds with assistance.
Follow infection prevention and control protocols, including using PPE when necessary.
Remain current with required training and ongoing education and pursue continuous learning.
Complete required background checks, drug screening, health assessments, and use designated PPE as required by company policy and applicable law.

Nice To Haves

CPR or BLS certification.
Previous staff management, coaching, or mentoring experience with a dining services team.
Experience in a senior living community.

Responsibilities

Supervise 10–15 employees in the day-to-day delivery of dining services designed for seniors.
Schedule staff and provide coverage when necessary staffing cannot otherwise be secured.
Maintain communication with vendors, community leadership, and the regional dining services team.
Support catering, room service, special parties, marketing functions, and related needs.
Maintain, order, and account for food inventory while keeping food and supply costs within budget.
Instruct employees on operating, maintaining, and cleaning kitchen equipment.
Understand all food service positions and provide hands-on staff training.
Understand dining services shifts, staff assignments, and residents’ dining needs.
Create recipes that are easy for dietary staff to follow.
Handle food safely and appropriately.
Recruit, orient, and hire dining services staff.
Assist the Executive Director with monthly staff in-service meetings and serve on committees as appointed.
Assist with sales and marketing procedures, resident satisfaction, sales, tours, and community needs when required.
Safely manage the company credit card and file receipts promptly.
Maintain appropriate food temperatures and ensure proper cooling and heating procedures and functioning equipment.
Apply basic mathematical concepts to practical situations.
Follow Cedarhurst safety standards for infection control and current FDA, state, county, and local food safety licensing requirements and guidelines.
Collaborate with others, take direction, show initiative, and engage in conflict intervention and resolution when needed.
Create and manage the department schedule through Attendance on Demand, ensuring coverage within the labor budget and compliance with platform expectations and guidelines.
Perform other duties as assigned.