Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee wellness programs
Paid holidays
Professional Development
Job Description
Red Cedar Lodge is a senior living community based in Lansing, Michigan, dedicated to providing compassionate and quality care to its residents. The community is deeply invested in enhancing the lives of seniors through a blend of exceptional hospitality and a warm, supportive environment that fosters comfort, dignity, and joy. Known for its caring staff and resident-focused programs, Red Cedar Lodge emphasizes personalized experiences that cater to the unique needs and preferences of each individual, making it a preferred choice for families seeking a welcoming senior living environment. The facility boasts a range of amenities designed to promote active, healthy living along with social engagement and wellness support, ensuring that every resident experiences a vibrant lifestyle within a nurturing community.
The Executive Chef / Culinary Director role at Red Cedar Lodge is a pivotal position responsible for leading the culinary operations and shaping the dining experience within this senior living community. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional who is passionate about food and hospitality, and who values creating memorable, high-quality dining experiences that contribute to the overall wellness and satisfaction of residents. The role requires a dedicated leader who can blend creativity with operational excellence to manage all aspects of the culinary department, including menu design, food preparation, staffing, budgeting, and food safety compliance. The ideal candidate will embrace a hands-on approach, ensuring that meal quality and presentation consistently meet the highest standards while fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
As Culinary Director, this individual will play an integral role in not only managing the kitchen team but also engaging directly with residents to tailor the dining offerings to their preferences and dietary requirements, thereby enhancing their dining experience and quality of life. This position offers a meaningful way to contribute daily to a senior living community where food is more than sustenance—it is an opportunity to create joy, comfort, and connection. The role also provides support from an encouraging leadership team and a culture that values innovation and continuous improvement in hospitality services. The Executive Chef / Culinary Director at Red Cedar Lodge is more than a chef; they are a leader, mentor, and advocate for excellent food and service within a caring community setting.
The Executive Chef / Culinary Director role at Red Cedar Lodge is a pivotal position responsible for leading the culinary operations and shaping the dining experience within this senior living community. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional who is passionate about food and hospitality, and who values creating memorable, high-quality dining experiences that contribute to the overall wellness and satisfaction of residents. The role requires a dedicated leader who can blend creativity with operational excellence to manage all aspects of the culinary department, including menu design, food preparation, staffing, budgeting, and food safety compliance. The ideal candidate will embrace a hands-on approach, ensuring that meal quality and presentation consistently meet the highest standards while fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
As Culinary Director, this individual will play an integral role in not only managing the kitchen team but also engaging directly with residents to tailor the dining offerings to their preferences and dietary requirements, thereby enhancing their dining experience and quality of life. This position offers a meaningful way to contribute daily to a senior living community where food is more than sustenance—it is an opportunity to create joy, comfort, and connection. The role also provides support from an encouraging leadership team and a culture that values innovation and continuous improvement in hospitality services. The Executive Chef / Culinary Director at Red Cedar Lodge is more than a chef; they are a leader, mentor, and advocate for excellent food and service within a caring community setting.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 3 years of culinary experience
- Proven leadership experience in a culinary or kitchen management role
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Flexibility to work various shifts including weekends and holidays
- Must be able to stand for long periods and perform physical tasks related to kitchen operations
Job Qualifications
- 3-5+ years of culinary experience required
- Previous leadership or kitchen management experience preferred
- Experience in senior living, hospitality, healthcare, or restaurant operations strongly preferred
- Strong knowledge of food safety and kitchen operations
- Passion for hospitality and resident satisfaction
- Hands-on leadership style with strong communication and organizational skills
- Culinary degree or certification preferred, but not required
Job Duties
- Lead day-to-day culinary and dining operations
- Ensure high-quality meal preparation, presentation, and service
- Manage food and labor costs while maintaining budget goals
- Oversee kitchen sanitation, food safety compliance, and regulatory standards
- Create and execute seasonal menus and specials
- Train, mentor, and develop culinary team members
- Maintain staffing schedules and support team accountability
- Engage with residents to ensure satisfaction and accommodate dietary needs
- Collaborate with community leadership to enhance the resident experience
Job Criteria
Experience
Expert Level (7+ years)
Job Location
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