Director of Dining Services

Company Description
Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC) supports individuals, families, and communities through a variety of compassionate services. The organization provides residential options and at-home care for seniors, helps veterans transition from homelessness, and supports children through foster care and adoption services. LSC also offers programs for individuals with mental illnesses, disabilities, and other life challenges, as well as welcoming refugees seeking sanctuary. With the help of dedicated volunteers, donors, and faith-based partners, LSC empowers individuals to live with dignity and independence.

Role Description
This is a full-time, on-site Director of Dining Services role based in Albemarle, NC. The Director will oversee all aspects of food service operations, ensuring high-quality meal preparations and customer satisfaction. Key responsibilities include managing food preparation and service staff, monitoring budgets, adhering to health and safety regulations, and maintaining cost controls. Additionally, you will develop menus, collaborate with dietary teams, manage inventory, and ensure that all food and beverage services align with the organization’s mission and standards.

• Lead and oversee dining services operations, staffing, and compliance
• Supervise, train, and evaluate dining team members
• Ensure food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards are met
• Manage budgets, equipment, menus, and dietary services
• Assess resident needs and ensure accuracy of physician-ordered diets
• Collaborate with departments and participate in meetings as needed
• Support care planning, documentation, and regulatory requirements (skilled nursing)
• Maintain a safe environment and perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Experience in Food Service Operations, including overseeing daily activities and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards
• Proficiency in Food Preparation and Food Service with a focus on quality and presentation
• Strong background in P&L Management, budgeting, and cost control strategies
• Knowledge of Food & Beverage services and menu development
• Proven leadership, organizational, and team management skills
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities
• Prior experience in a healthcare, residential, or senior living setting is a plus
• Certification in food safety and sanitation is preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or related field is highly desired

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• D.M.A. certification required or willingness to obtain

Experience:

• Minimum one (1) year of food service experience in a healthcare facility or retirement community preferred
• Prior supervisory or management experience preferred

Specific Skills/Abilities:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and maintain professional interactions

Specialized Knowledge, Licenses, etc.:

• Knowledge of local health regulations and state laws related to food preparation and dining services
• Understanding of safe food handling, sanitation standards, and infection control procedures

Ability to safely operate and maintain the following equipment:

1. Stoves, ovens (including convection), and microwave ovens
2. Toasters, blenders, mixers, and standard kitchen utensils (including knives)
3. Coffee machines, urns, and juice machines
4. Meat slicers
5. Steamers, steam tables, and kettles
6. Dishwashers, sanitation equipment, dryers, and pot sinks
7. Food scales, transport carts, and cleaning equipment

• Ability to lift and carry at least 20 pounds
• Frequently ambulatory throughout all areas of the facility
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach overhead, and perform repetitive motions