Director of Dining Services / Executive Chef

Albuquerque, NM, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Salary

Exact $85,000.00

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Retirement benefits

short-term disability

long-term disability

Paid Time Off

Job Description

Senior Lifestyle is a reputable organization committed to enhancing the lives of the communities it serves through exceptional hospitality and dedicated service. With a strong emphasis on values represented by HEART - Hospitality, Excellence, Appreciation, Respect, and Teamwork - Senior Lifestyle fosters an environment that encourages both professional growth and personal fulfillment. This company specializes in senior living services, ensuring that every dining experience contributes to the overall well-being and satisfaction of its residents. Known for its dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive community, Senior Lifestyle places a high priority on delivering superior quality dining options and experiences tailored to meet the needs of its clients.

This exciting opportunity is for a Director of Dining Services / Executive Chef position based in Albuquerque. This role is essential for overseeing the entire culinary operations at the community. Offering a competitive salary of $85,000 and a great work-life balance, this position is ideal for a visionary and experienced culinary professional who wants to spearhead innovative dining programs and ensure operational excellence. The successful candidate will be responsible for crafting and executing a strategic vision aligned with the organization’s goals, managing budgets effectively, developing menus that incorporate current culinary trends and nutritional standards, and leading a team of culinary and dining staff to deliver outstanding service. Additionally, this role involves maintaining rigorous food safety standards, controlling costs, negotiating with vendors, and contributing to special events and catering services planning.

The Director of Dining Services / Executive Chef will play a critical role in shaping the dining atmosphere and experiences for residents by leading all facets of dining services operations. The ideal candidate should bring at least 10 years of progressive culinary experience, with a minimum of 5 years in leadership or management roles within food service environments. Expertise in menu development, food cost analysis, kitchen management, and vendor negotiations is essential. This role demands a strong understanding of food safety protocols, nutrition science, and team leadership skills that motivate and uplift a diverse workforce. The individual must be adept in using food service software, inventory management systems, and have proven abilities in budgeting and expense control.

At Senior Lifestyle, the emphasis on teamwork, respect, and service excellence is ingrained in every aspect of daily operations. Therefore, the Director of Dining Services not only functions as a leader but also as a mentor and innovator, ensuring culinary standards meet the highest level while fostering a positive work environment. The company also encourages flexible work schedules, recognizing the diverse needs and commitments of its employees. This role offers a meaningful chance to make a tangible difference in senior living through culinary excellence and operational leadership.

Job Requirements

Minimum education of a high school diploma or equivalent
At least 10 years of progressive culinary experience in a professional kitchen environment
Minimum 5 years of leadership or management experience in food service operations
Proven expertise in menu development food cost analysis and kitchen management
Strong knowledge of food safety standards sanitation protocols and regulatory compliance
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control operational expenses
ServSafe Food Handler Certification or equivalent food safety certification
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as needed

Job Qualifications

Minimum 10 years of progressive culinary experience in a professional kitchen environment
Minimum 5 years of leadership or management experience in food service operations
Proven expertise in menu development food cost analysis and kitchen management
Strong knowledge of food safety standards sanitation protocols and regulatory compliance
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control operational expenses
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to lead and motivate diverse teams
Experience with inventory management systems and food service software
Knowledge of nutritional science and ability to create balanced health-conscious menus
Familiarity with institutional or corporate dining environments
Proficiency in vendor negotiation and supply chain management
ServSafe Food Handler Certification or equivalent food safety certification
Experience with event planning and catering operations
Understanding of sustainability practices and locally sourced ingredient sourcing
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as needed

Job Duties

Develop and execute strategic vision for dining services ensuring alignment with organizational goals and guest satisfaction objectives
Design innovative menus that reflect culinary trends seasonal availability and nutritional standards while maintaining cost efficiency
Manage dining operations budget including food costs labor expenses and capital investments while maximizing profitability
Supervise train and mentor culinary and dining staff fostering a collaborative culture of excellence and continuous improvement
Ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations health codes and HACCP protocols across all kitchen operations
Maintain rigorous quality control standards for food preparation presentation and service delivery
Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with food vendors and suppliers to optimize quality and value