Corrections Food Service Coordinator (Portland) Temporary or Job Rotation Opportunity

The Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) is the state agency responsible for overseeing over 12,000 adults in custody across 12 state prisons throughout Oregon. The department also manages probation and parole programs for more than 24,000 offenders supervised in the state's communities. ODOC's mission focuses on protecting communities, promoting accountability, and transforming lives through innovative and proven correctional practices. As a government agency deeply invested in safety, equity, and community well-being, the department fosters a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and belonging while ensuring a secure institutional environment for both staff and those housed in correctional facilities.

Located within the Columbia River Correctional Institution in Portland, Oregon, the temporary position of Corrections Food Service Coordinator is a unique opportunity for experienced food service professionals to apply their culinary skills and leadership abilities within a correctional setting. This role is anticipated to last approximately six months, with potential extension or reduction depending on operational needs, and may also be considered for internal job rotations with managerial approval. The pay range for this position is $5,105 to $6,118, reflecting the importance of the role in maintaining high standards for nutrition, safety, and operational efficiency within a secure environment.

The Corrections Food Service Coordinator is essential in managing the daily food service operations within the correctional facility. Leading a team predominantly made up of Adults in Custody (AICs) who participate in work programs, this role involves coordinating, supervising, and instructing these individuals to prepare nutritious meals in adherence to strict safety and sanitation standards. Emphasis is placed on fostering skill development among AICs, contributing to their personal growth and potential reintegration into society.

Key responsibilities include overseeing work crews, ensuring proper food preparation, maintaining sanitation standards, requisitioning and managing inventory, and accurately recording production and labor metrics. The coordinator supervises AICs in food service activities ranging from cooking diverse meals to managing specialized dietary needs and minimizing food waste through planned cooking schedules. The role requires strict adherence to security protocols, including conducting area inspections and searches to prevent contraband and ensure a safe environment.

The work environment exposes the coordinator to physical demands such as high noise levels, extreme temperature variations, prolonged standing on concrete floors, and necessary physical actions including stooping, bending, reaching, and lifting. Given the nature of the correctional setting, the position also entails direct interaction with potentially hostile individuals, requiring vigilance and a calm, authoritative presence. This role does not currently offer PERS benefits for temporary appointments; however, eligible employees may access a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, paid leave, life insurance, retirement plans, and flexible spending accounts through the state of Oregon.

Candidates for this position are expected to meet minimum qualifications, including a high school diploma or GED plus one year of experience in commercial food service, or an associate's degree in a relevant field such as Food Service Management or Hospitality. A Food Handlers Permit must be obtained within 30 days of hire. Preferred skills include experience managing or supervising large kitchen crews, proficiency in cooking a wide variety of foods, knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation procedures, and the ability to maintain a positive, orderly work environment. The role also values certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certificate.

The Oregon Department of Corrections is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, actively working to create a workplace that respects and reflects the varied backgrounds of both employees and those served. The department is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming candidates from all races, colors, religions, sexes, sexual orientations, gender identities, national origins, disabilities, veteran statuses, and other legally protected characteristics. Security clearance through fingerprint-based background checks and compliance with the Federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) is required, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all. Join the Oregon Department of Corrections as a Corrections Food Service Coordinator and contribute to impactful correctional operations by leading food service excellence within a structured, secure setting.