Head Culinary Specialist

City Union Mission is a faith-based nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of the homeless and urban poor in Kansas City through comprehensive Christ-centered ministries. Operating for over a century, the Mission provides shelter, food, education, and recovery services aimed at meeting the physical and spiritual needs of those experiencing homelessness. As a well-established charitable institution, City Union Mission relies on dedicated staff, volunteers, and donors to maintain its impactful programs and outreach efforts. The organization fosters a culture rooted in compassion, unity, and spiritual growth, emphasizing service to those in need while exemplifying Christian values in daily operations.

The Food Service Supervisor at City Union Mission plays a pivotal role in ensuring the provision of nutritious and appealing meals to shelter guests, volunteers, and staff within a welcoming and team-oriented kitchen environment. This full-time position requires availability for both morning (6am-2pm) and afternoon (10:30am-6:30pm) shifts to maintain seamless food service coverage. The supervisor is responsible for upholding health department cleanliness standards, managing kitchen inventory, coordinating meal preparation in accordance with established menus, and supervising volunteer and client workers. Additionally, the role includes overseeing meal counts, logging attendance, hosting and orienting volunteers, planning for special events and holidays, and ensuring kitchen organization and operational excellence even in the administrator's absence. Integral to the position is the expectation that the supervisor will exemplify Christ-like conduct and be ready to share the Gospel as opportunities present themselves, reinforcing the Mission's spiritual objectives.

This role requires a meticulous and compassionate individual passionate about cooking and able to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen setting. The successful candidate will blend strong culinary skills with effective team leadership and spiritual maturity, cultivating unity among the kitchen and shelter staff while delivering impactful ministry through food service. A minimum of one year sobriety, abstinence from substances, and adherence to a lifestyle reflecting biblical standards are prerequisites for employment, emphasizing the Mission's commitment to integrity and example. For food safety compliance, the candidate must obtain a Manager's-level Food Safety certification within 90 days of hire. Physical demands include standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in heated kitchen environments, underscoring the role's dynamic and hands-on nature.

This opportunity at City Union Mission offers more than just a job—it's a chance to serve a transformative mission that meets urgent human needs while fostering spiritual renewal. The Food Service Supervisor will be an essential leader in providing sustenance, support, and hope to the vulnerable populations served by the Mission. Those embarking on this role should be ready to engage heartily in a ministry-driven workplace where food service intersects with impactful evangelism and community upliftment.