Discovery Senior Living

Director of Culinary Services (Senior Living)

Discovery Senior Living$80K — $88K *
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in culinary leadership with high standards and volume
  • Hands-on kitchen operations experience
  • Food Safety Certification required
  • Strong knowledge in sanitation and food handling
  • Preferred culinary training or certification
  • Experience in menu engineering and cost control
  • Effective leadership and problem-solving abilities

Responsibilities

  • Lead and oversee daily culinary operations
  • Plan and execute resident menus considering dietary preferences
  • Monitor and enhance food quality and presentation
  • Ensure compliance with food safety standards
  • Conduct audits and quality assurance checks
  • Manage purchasing and vendor contracts
  • Oversee culinary budget and manage operational costs

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Paid training and career growth opportunities
  • Wellness-related benefits and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Full Job Description


As Director of Culinary Services, you'll play an essential role in enriching the lives of seniors, creating meaningful connections, and making a difference every single day.

Your Role:

As the Director of Culinary Services, your role includes providing both strategic oversight and hands-on leadership of the Culinary Services Department. This includes responsibility for menu planning, staffing, food quality, safety, and budget performance. You'll play a vital role in resident satisfaction by creating memorable dining experiences while ensuring operational excellence.

Position Highlights:
  • Community Name: Discovery Village Stuart
  • Status: Full-Time
  • Schedule: Monday-Friday with flexibility for holidays, special events, evenings as needed, and Manager on Duty (MOD) responsibilities
  • Location: Stuart, FL 34997
  • Rate of Pay: Starting at $80,000 Base Salary + 10% Annual Bonus


What You'll Do:
  • Lead daily culinary operations while participating in meal preparation and service
  • Plan and execute menus that meet resident dietary guidelines and preferences
  • Monitor food quality, consistency, and presentation; implement improvements as needed
  • Ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and dietary standards
  • Conduct food safety audits and quality assurance checks
  • Oversee purchasing, inventory control, and vendor contracts
  • Manage budgets, monitor costs, and take corrective action when needed
  • Manage, recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate culinary staff
  • Lead orientation and in-service training programs for team members
  • Engage with residents during mealtimes to ensure satisfaction and resolve concerns
  • Collaborate with Executive Director and department heads to align food services with community goals

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 5 years of culinary leadership in high-volume, high-standard environments (e.g., country clubs, resorts, cruise ships)
  • Hands-on experience leading kitchen operations, including cooking and staff oversight
  • Food Safety Certification required
  • Strong knowledge of sanitation, food handling, and loss prevention practices
  • Culinary training or certification preferred
  • Experience with menu engineering, cost controls, and vendor management
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and kitchen management systems
  • Experience in senior living culinary services is a plus-but only if paired with demonstrated high service standards
  • Ability to work in kitchen environments
  • Oversight of food safety audits and inspections
  • Exposure to high-pressure operational deadlines
  • Ability to lift or assist with kitchen operations as needed
  • Participation in rotating on-call schedule or Manager on Duty (MOD) responsibilities required

Benefits You'll Enjoy

For eligible employees, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, paid time off and holidays, a 401(k) with employer match, paid training and career growth opportunities, wellness-related benefits, and additional support through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).



JOB CODE: 1008863

About Discovery Senior Living

Discovery Senior Living provides authentic lifestyle experiences that parallel the distinctive local and regional culture and the traditions that typify life in each area. It is a real estate company providing senior living, care, and resort lifestyle services.

Discovery Senior Living Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join the dedicated team at Discovery Senior Living—the leader in providing exceptional service and care in the senior living industry.

Work You’ll Do

Join Discovery Senior Living's highly regarded team to assist in transforming the experience of senior living across the nation. This role offers the chance to be a part of a community that values growth, leadership, and innovation. Lead in a unique role that combines deep industry knowledge with a commitment to improving the lives of seniors. Engage with a professional team that drives industry standards through a culture of diversity, networking, and professional development. Collaborate with the nation’s top experts in senior living – a community of professionals dedicated to pioneering advancements in care and lifestyle options for seniors.

Introducing the Discovery Senior Living Career Development Program

The program is designed to foster the next generation of leaders in the senior living industry through comprehensive leadership and diversity training. Discovery Senior Living is committed to nurturing talent and providing pathways for career advancement.

Innovate and Lead

Be part of a team that is at the forefront of innovation in senior living. Discovery Senior Living employs over 6,000 dedicated professionals who are committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through cutting-edge solutions and compassionate care.

Grow Your Career

Discovery Senior Living offers a wealth of job opportunities that encourage professional growth and personal achievement. Team members are supported through extensive training programs and are encouraged to advance their skills through continued education and leadership roles.

Explore Job Opportunities and Benefits

Discovery Senior Living provides a robust array of benefits designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of each team member. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs, team members are equipped with resources to succeed.

The Discovery Senior Living Difference

Through a commitment to excellence and a culture of respect and compassion, Discovery Senior Living sets itself apart as a leader in the senior living sector. The company’s focus on innovation, combined with its dedication to quality and service, makes it a prime choice for those seeking meaningful careers in this dynamic field.

Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. Discovery Senior Living looks for passionate, curious, and solution-driven professionals. Explore the various employment and internship positions available that promise a rewarding career in senior living.

Keep Up to Date

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Learn more about Discovery Senior Living
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10,001 employees
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