Kitchen Manager

Culinary Arts Program Leadership

Oversee and lead the Mission’s Culinary Arts training program for Life Recovery Program participants.
Teach progressive food preparation, cooking techniques, and food service skills.
Instruct participants in menu planning, food ordering, and kitchen budgeting.
Prepare men for employment in the food service industry by developing practical job skills and work habits.
Aid participants in obtaining California Food Handler Cards when appropriate.
Develop kitchen work schedules for program participants.
Provide spiritual encouragement and mentorship within a Christian recovery environment.

Kitchen & Food Service Operations

Plan and prepare weekly menus for residents, shelter guests, and special events.
Oversee meal preparation and service for in-house residents, outreach meal guests, and special events.
Ensure meals are prepared efficiently, safely, and in accordance with health regulations.
Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness, organization, and safety.

Food Purchasing & Donation Coordination

Order food and related supplies while maintaining responsible cost control.
Develop and maintain relationships with food retailers, wholesalers, and community partners to increase food donations.
Collaborate with food banks and other food donors to arrange and receive donations.
Creatively utilize donated food items to maximize resources and reduce food costs.

Volunteer & Team Collaboration

Work with volunteers assisting in kitchen and food service activities.
Cook with volunteers and assist in meal preparation.
Collaborate with the Workforce Development Coordinator to develop curriculum and help program participants in job employment preparedness.
Attend regular staff meetings and participate in organizational initiatives.

Qualifications

• Strong and active Christian faith aligned with RMA’s Statement of Faith.
• Min. 5 years’ experience in culinary arts, food service management, or commercial kitchen operations.
• Experience teaching or mentoring others in a hands-on environment preferred.
• Ability to train and lead individuals from diverse backgrounds in a recovery setting.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain food budgets and manage inventory effectively.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Rescue Mission Alliance Ventura County.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Provide leadership and oversight to vocational trainees, volunteers, and kitchen helpers during daily meal preparation and special events.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured under Rescue Mission Alliance vehicle policy.
• Manager Serve Safe Certificate – 5 year (current).
• Able to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Able to attend required safety and driver training.

Skills

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to manage high-volume kitchen operations.
• Ability to creatively utilize food donations and manage food costs.
• Strong organizational and scheduling ability.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work extended periods in a commercial kitchen environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during meal preparation and service.

Equipment

• Commercial kitchen equipment including dishwasher, ovens, tilt pans, fryer, steam table, mixer, bone saw, food preparation tools, and basic office equipment such as computers, copiers, and printers.