Kitchen Manager

Lutheran Life Villages•Fort Wayne, IN

About The Position

Lutheran Life Villages (LLV) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Kitchen Manager to support and lead daily kitchen operations within our Dining Services Department. This position plays a key role in ensuring the consistent preparation and service of high-quality meals while maintaining a safe, sanitary, and efficient kitchen environment. The Kitchen Manager provides hands-on leadership, supervises kitchen staff, and supports departmental operations to meet the needs of residents, guests, and staff. This role is ideal for an organized, team-oriented professional who is passionate about food service excellence, staff development, and operational compliance within a long-term care or hospitality environment.

Requirements

Previous experience in food service or kitchen operations
Leadership or supervisory experience in a kitchen or dining environment
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Ability to communicate effectively with staff and leadership
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and safety standards

Nice To Haves

Experience in healthcare, senior living, or institutional food service
Experience with scheduling and staff coordination
Familiarity with regulatory compliance in food service operations

Responsibilities

Directing and assisting in the preparation and serving of meals according to established menus and production schedules
Ensuring meals are prepared and served in a timely, consistent, and high-quality manner
Supervising, training, and supporting kitchen staff to promote teamwork, accountability, and performance excellence
Assigning daily tasks and adjusting staffing levels as needed to meet operational demands
Managing employee schedules, attendance, and shift coverage
Ensuring proper use, care, and storage of food, supplies, and equipment
Monitoring kitchen workflows to promote efficiency and reduce waste
Maintaining all kitchen areas, equipment, and storage spaces in clean, safe, and sanitary condition
Ensuring compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards, including local, state, and federal guidelines
Supporting inspections and audits by maintaining proper documentation and readiness
Addressing operational issues promptly and professionally
Modeling professionalism, integrity, and respect in all interactions
Clear communication of expectations and procedures
On-the-job training and coaching of new and existing team members
Reinforcement of safety practices and sanitation standards
Encouragement of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
Collaboration with Dining Services leadership to support departmental goals
Ensuring all food handling practices meet sanitation and safety standards
Monitoring temperatures, storage, and preparation methods
Ensuring proper cleaning and sanitizing of kitchen equipment and workspaces
Supporting infection control and workplace safety practices
Reporting maintenance or equipment issues promptly