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Culinary Director

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $74,400.00 - $102,400.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional development opportunities
Employee assistance program
Life insurance

Job Description

Lifespace Communities is a reputable non-profit senior living provider with over 40 years of success, operating communities across the United States. Headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, and Dallas, Texas, Lifespace is one of the nation’s largest providers of retirement living, serving over 5,100 residents and employing more than 4,500 dedicated team members. The organization is committed to fostering environments where residents can live their aspirations and team members can thrive in purposeful careers. Lifespace believes in creating meaningful, personalized experiences by placing team members at the center of their mission. The company culture emphasizes growth, teamwork, excellence, and community involvement, ensuring every individual feels empowered and valued.

Located in Meadow Lake, Tyler, Texas, Lifespace’s community is looking to welcome a skilled Director of Culinary to join their culinary team. This role offers an annual pay range of $74,400 to $102,400 and represents an exciting leadership opportunity within a caring and dynamic senior living environment. The Director of Culinary is vital in ensuring that residents experience high levels of satisfaction through quality menu offerings and excellent hospitality services. This position requires a strategic leader who can develop and execute comprehensive culinary plans aligned with Lifespace's community and organizational goals.

The successful candidate will have responsibility for managing financial aspects like labor, operations, inventory, and capital budgets while maintaining efficient use of electronic tracking systems such as menu development software, timekeeping, bill pay, and point-of-sale programs. Additionally, active participation on various committees—including resident culinary, quality assurance, safety and risk management, and department director meetings—is essential for fostering collaboration and continuous improvements. The role demands exceptional leadership, culinary expertise, and the ability to cultivate a positive dining experience that supports residents’ health and well-being.

Lifespace offers a supportive company environment where team members can grow professionally and personally. The Director of Culinary role is perfect for a seasoned leader with a passion for food service management and a commitment to delivering exceptional care through innovative culinary practices. Working at Lifespace means being part of a family focused on innovation, community, and purpose. Team members are encouraged to live their purpose, thrive through teamwork, and create meaningful experiences in every interaction. This position provides a meaningful career path with ample opportunities for professional growth and contribution within the senior living industry.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
  • Eight to ten years of managing a culinary department experience
  • State certified in safe food handling and sanitation where applicable
  • Certified dietary manager preferred
  • Food handler certification obtained within 60 days of hire as required by state guidelines, if state certification program exists

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
  • Eight to ten years of managing a culinary department experience
  • State certified in safe food handling and sanitation where applicable
  • Certified dietary manager preferred
  • Food handler certification obtained within 60 days of hire as required by state guidelines, if state certification program exists

Job Duties

  • Ensure resident satisfaction levels are achieved by offering quality menu items and hospitality services
  • Provide leadership and vision by developing strategic plans
  • Implement Lifespace Communities and community strategic plans, evaluate progress and measure results
  • Develop and operate within annual budget which includes but is not limited to labor, operations, inventory, and capital
  • Maintain and update electronic tracking systems which include menu development software, timekeeping system, bill pay, and point of sale program
  • Participate and serve on resident culinary committee, quality assurance committee, safety and risk management committee, other assigned committees, and department director meetings

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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