Culinary Director

Washington DC Department of Corrections, in partnership with Aramark, is seeking a seasoned Culinary Director to lead and manage culinary training and retail food service operations as part of the impactful In2Work (I2W) re-entry program. Aramark is a global leader in food, facilities, and uniform services, serving millions of guests across 15 countries. With a mission rooted in service and a commitment to community and employee growth, Aramark provides a supportive environment for those passionate about making a difference. This role is a unique opportunity to combine culinary expertise, retail management, and community engagement to help individuals successfully reintegrate into society by preparing them for careers in the food service and hospitality industry.

The Washington DC Department of Corrections Culinary Director will oversee all aspects of the culinary training curriculum and retail food service deliveries that support the I2W re-entry initiative. The position offers a salary range of $60,000 to $70,000 and includes access to comprehensive benefits such as medical, dental, vision coverage, and work/life resources, as well as retirement savings plans and paid time off. This employment opportunity does not have a predetermined application window and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, including those with arrest or conviction records, in compliance with applicable fair chance laws.

As Culinary Director, the successful candidate will design, implement, and manage an all-encompassing culinary training program that equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in food service and hospitality roles after release. The role demands a hands-on leader who can supervise daily kitchen and retail operations, ensuring adherence to stringent food safety, sanitation, and correctional regulations. Beyond operational management, the Director will mentor and evaluate program participants, nurturing professionalism, confidence, and accountability.

Financial stewardship is also central to this role, with responsibilities including managing inventory, controlling food costs, purchasing, and budgeting to meet operational and retail objectives. Collaboration is key, as the Director will work closely with Aramark, the Department of Corrections leadership, and community partners to strengthen workforce development, facilitate job placement, and support successful re-entry outcomes.

Creativity in culinary and retail food service concepts will enhance customer satisfaction and market relevance, making this role both dynamic and impactful. Compliance with safety, security, and operational policies in a correctional environment is critical, alongside monitoring program performance, tracking outcomes, and preparing reports on training progress and participant success.

Serving as a positive ambassador for the I2W program, the Culinary Director will contribute to community engagement efforts, representing the program professionally and advocating for its mission of rehabilitation and career preparation through education and skill-building. This position is ideal for culinary leaders who are passionate about making a meaningful community impact through innovative training and strong operational leadership within a structured environment.