Food Service Specialist IV (#013839) Broad River Correctional Inst., Columbia (RICHLAND) Level 3

The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) is a state government agency dedicated to managing correctional facilities and ensuring public safety through the management and rehabilitation of inmates. SCDC operates under strict state guidelines to maintain the security, safety, and well-being of inmates and staff within its facilities. Known for its commitment to equal employment opportunities, SCDC provides a supportive work environment focusing on professional growth and community service. The department emphasizes training and certification to uphold high standards of service and accountability in all aspects of its operations.

This job opening is for a Food Service Supervisor position within the South Carolina Department of Corrections. This role is crucial for overseeing the operations of the inmate food service program, ensuring food quality and safety, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. The position involves managing a diverse team, including cooks, bakers, kitchen assistants, and dining hall personnel, all while maintaining security within the cafeteria setting. This supervisory role requires a combination of culinary expertise, leadership skills, and a strong commitment to operational standards.

The Food Service Supervisor is responsible for interviewing, hiring, evaluating, and, when necessary, terminating inmate food service employees. Onboarding and ongoing training fall under the supervisor's duties, ensuring all staff members understand and perform their roles effectively and safely. This training includes everything from food preparation to proper sanitation and security protocols. As a leader, the supervisor oversees daily operations to maintain efficiency and compliance with the SCDC Master Menu and state health regulations.

A key responsibility of the Food Service Supervisor is to act as a security officer within the cafeteria, maintaining internal order and collaborating with inmate representative committees to address grievances or operational issues. The role also includes preparing accurate food orders weekly, monitoring deliveries, and ensuring that cook’s worksheets align precisely with the SCDC guidelines. Maintaining records for a minimum of five years is required for audit and reference purposes.

Health, fire, and OSHA inspections are a regular aspect of the role, requiring the supervisor to ensure the cafeteria meets all regulatory standards. Equipment maintenance and repairs within the kitchen are also overseen to guarantee a safe and operational work environment. ServSafe manager certification is mandatory, either prior to employment or to be attained within six months of hire, reflecting the importance of food safety in this position.

Employment in this position mandates successful completion of a four-week SCDC Basic Training program at the start of employment. Additionally, the supervisor must complete basic supervisory courses within eighteen months of employment. This ensures that all supervisory personnel are equipped with the essential skills to manage staff and operations effectively in a correctional setting. The South Carolina Department of Corrections values integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to service, making this role ideal for candidates who are passionate about food service management in a unique environment.