Food Service Specialist III (1 Vacancy)

The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (Academy) is a premier state government agency dedicated to training law enforcement personnel who serve the citizens of South Carolina. As the foundational training ground for all law enforcement officers in the state, the Academy plays a crucial role in educating and preparing those entrusted with public safety during times of distress, worry, and injury. The Academy prides itself on being a collaborative team of dedicated professionals committed to maintaining high standards and providing meaningful, challenging work while promoting a balanced work-life environment. Known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the Academy strictly prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex including pregnancy and childbirth or related medical conditions, age over 40, or disability. Furthermore, the Academy prioritizes veterans in its hiring process, reflecting its respect for those who have served the country. With its status as a full-time employment opportunity, the Academy offers an exceptional benefits package, including health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance coverage for employees and their families, paid vacation and sick leave, holidays, paid parental leave, and participation in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program.

The role of Food Service Specialist within the Academy's Food Service Unit involves supervising inmate personnel engaged in food preparation and service. This critical position requires a responsible and capable individual who can oversee the daily preparation and serving of breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, as well as occasional special events. The Food Service Specialist is tasked with preparing alternative daily meals to minimize leftovers and expand the variety of meal options, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet for those served. They must maintain strict cleanliness, sanitation, and safety standards throughout the kitchen, equipment, and storage areas to comply with health regulations such as those mandated by the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

In addition, the specialist trains inmates on kitchen procedures, recipes, and safety protocols, fostering an environment of learning and adherence to established standards. Inventory control and proper storage of perishable items fall under their responsibilities, alongside managing kitchen operations across shifts in collaboration with other supervisors. The work environment requires physical stamina to perform duties that involve prolonged standing, handling heavy food cases, exposure to temperature fluctuations, and safely lifting large pots and pans. The position also includes the responsibility to transport inmate personnel using Academy vehicles, adding a security and compliance aspect to the duties.

Candidates for this role should have experience in quantity and quality cooking or baking, with knowledge of dietetic principles to plan nutritionally adequate menus. Familiarity with the operation and maintenance of cooking appliances, as well as sanitation and safety regulations related to meal preparation, is essential. Physical requirements include the ability to lift and move food supplies and equipment, respond well to verbal and written instructions, and meet all health and safety guidelines expected in a professional kitchen and correctional environment. The Food Service Specialist role is vital to the smooth operation of food services at the Academy and supports the overarching mission of training competent law enforcement officers by maintaining an efficient, safe, and compliant kitchen.