Food Service Manager- Potter County Jail Kitchen

The hiring establishment is a large private correctional food service provider based in Texas, specializing in delivering comprehensive food service solutions to correctional facilities. This company has established a significant presence in the correctional food service industry by maintaining high standards of food quality, safety, and operational efficiency while catering specifically to correctional institutions across the state and region. With a focus on providing nutritious meals that comply with strict regulatory guidelines, the company supports the well-being of inmates and staff alike, alongside stringent safety and security protocols that align with correctional facility requirements.

This specific role is at the Potter County Jail located in Amarillo, Texas, where the company manages all food service operations. The position available is that of a Food Service Director, a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing every facet of the food production and service cycle within the jail. The Food Service Director ensures adherence to operational standards, safety compliance, and budgetary controls. Employment type is full-time, with a starting annual salary of $45,000, accompanied by a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and paid leave.

The Food Service Director's core responsibility is to supervise the cooking, baking, and serving of meals for the jail population, ensuring that every aspect of meal preparation meets established nutritional and safety standards. This includes direct involvement in menu planning, food delivery, inventory control, and staff supervision. The role requires proactive management of kitchen supervisors and inmate trustees who assist in meal preparation, necessitating strong leadership skills and a hands-on approach.

Daily operational duties include preparing menus that satisfy dietary guidelines, conducting weekly inventories to maintain adequate food supplies, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the kitchen environment. This role also mandates close coordination with jail staff, the corporate office, and regional management teams to ensure smooth communication and operations. Documentation and accountability are critical components; hence, the Food Service Director handles weekly paperwork for the accounting department and manages employee time-keeping and scheduling.

Safety is paramount in this position, with responsibilities encompassing conducting monthly safety training sessions for all shifts, ensuring compliance with safety gear usage, vehicle inspections, and maintaining a secure work environment for all employees. The Food Service Director also plays an active role in human resources activities, including interviewing, hiring qualified candidates, facilitating pre-employment physicals and drug tests, and managing necessary employment documentation.

Overall, this role is ideal for a professional with a background in institutional or commercial food service, preferably with experience in correctional facility food service environments. The successful candidate must possess strong communication skills, be detail-oriented, and capable of following strict operational protocols. There is a strong emphasis on maintaining compliance with safety and security procedures, making this a challenging yet rewarding leadership position within the correctional food service industry.