Kitchen Manager

Rescue Mission Alliance•Oxnard, CA

54d•Onsite

About The Position

The Kitchen Manager oversees all kitchen operations, food services, and culinary training activities for Rescue Mission Alliance Ventura County. This role manages a high-volume kitchen that produces approximately 20,000 meals per month, including meals for residential program participants, outreach meals for community guests, sack lunches, and groceries distributed through outreach and community partners. In addition to managing kitchen operations, this position leads the Mission’s hands-on Culinary Vocational Training Program. Program participants receive practical kitchen training while helping prepare and serve meals. The Kitchen Manager teaches professional food service skills, models strong work ethic, and mentors participants within a Christian recovery environment. This is a regular, exempt position reporting to the Director and located in Oxnard, CA. Compensation is commensurate with skills and experience.

Requirements

Strong and active Christian faith aligned with RMA’s Statement of Faith.
Min. 5 years’ experience in culinary arts, food service management, or commercial kitchen operations.
Ability to train and lead individuals from diverse backgrounds in a recovery setting.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to maintain food budgets and manage inventory effectively.
Commitment to the mission and values of Rescue Mission Alliance Ventura County.
Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured under Rescue Mission Alliance vehicle policy.
Manager Serve Safe Certificate – 5 year (current)
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
Ability to attend required safety and driver training.
Strong leadership and communication skills.
Ability to manage high-volume kitchen operations.
Ability to creatively utilize food donations and manage food costs.
Strong organizational and scheduling ability.
PC knowledge including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook

Nice To Haves

Experience teaching or mentoring others in a hands-on environment preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee and lead the Mission’s Culinary Arts training program for Life Recovery Program participants.
Teach progressive food preparation, cooking techniques, and food service skills.
Instruct participants in menu planning, food ordering, and kitchen budgeting.
Prepare men for employment in the food service industry by developing practical job skills and work habits.
Assist participants in obtaining California Food Handler Cards when appropriate.
Develop kitchen work schedules for program participants.
Provide spiritual encouragement and mentorship within a Christian recovery environment.
Plan and prepare weekly menus for residents, shelter guests, and special events.
Oversee meal preparation and service for in-house residents, outreach meal guests, and special events.
Ensure meals are prepared efficiently, safely, and in accordance with health regulations.
Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness, organization, and safety.
Order food and related supplies while maintaining responsible cost control.
Develop and maintain relationships with food retailers, wholesalers, and community partners to increase food donations.
Coordinate with food banks and other food donors to arrange and receive donations.
Creatively utilize donated food items to maximize resources and reduce food costs.
Work with volunteers assisting in kitchen and food service activities.
Coordinate with staff members to support Mission events and program needs.
Collaborate with the Workforce Development Coordinator to develop curriculum and help program participants in job employment preparedness.
Attend regular staff meetings and participate in organizational initiatives.
Provide leadership and oversight to vocational trainees, volunteers, and kitchen helpers during daily meal preparation and special events.