Food Services Director

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Middleton, MA

10d • Onsite

About The Position

This mid-management position serves as the primary operational liaison between the Essex County Sheriff’s Department and the contracted food service provider. This position answers directly to Assistant Superintendent V or designated higher authority. It is responsible for the daily monitoring of vendor compliance, enforcing security and safety standards, and protecting the operational and contractual interests of the Sheriff’s Department. Work involves oversight of food service performance, verification of contractual obligations, coordination with inmate workers, and regular inspections of kitchen and storage areas for sanitation, safety and security.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree and/or Two years Military Experience preferred.
• Experience with vendor management, food service oversight or correctional operations.
• Familiarity with MA DOC and DPH food service regulations
• Knowledge of food safety regulations; ServSafe certification and therapeutic/religious diet training preferred.
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and respond appropriately in emergencies.

Nice To Haves

• ServSafe certification
• Therapeutic/religious diet training

Responsibilities

• Ensure the contracted food service provider is in compliance with written policies and CMR’s.
• Monitor contract details: menus, portion standards, special diet requirements and daily service scheduling.
• Participate in vendor performance reviews and audits.
• Track vendor adherence to staffing, training, and safety requirements outlines in the contract.
• Inspect kitchen and storage, and food preparation areas for compliance with health codes and safety regulations.
• Confirm cleaning, temperature control and pest control measures, meet required standards.
• Collaborate with the Office of Professional Standards – Inspection and Compliance Division and serve as the point of contact in the for annual inspections.
• Ensure meals are served under staff supervision to prevent favoritism and mishandling.
• Monitor inmate workers assigned to kitchen duties to ensure compliance with facility rules, PPE use, and security protocols.
• Oversee tool, utensil and chemical control in coordination with custody staff.
• Ensure security procedures are followed during deliveries, storage, and meal distribution.
• Document and report any sanitation or safety deficiencies by either correctional or contracted food service employees and assist and verify corrective actions are taken.
• Verify that inventory records match physical counts; investigate discrepancies.
• Inquire with management from the food service provider to be aware of food cost, waste and efficiency, and provide update to department management.
• Report operational deficiencies to vendor administration for follow-up/monitor follow up with the vendor.
• Is aware of substitutions and menu changes, ensuring dietician reviews and documentation as required by 103 DOC 760.
• Serve as the daily point of contact between department management and the food service provider on-site management.
• Prepare and submit inspection reports, diet adherence, incident reports, and monthly compliance summaries.
• Work with department management and the Contract Monitor to address compliance issues not resolved at the local level.
• Coordinate with custody, classification, and programs division on issues affecting food service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree