Food Services Manager in Cambridge

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) creates and coordinates services that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents. Driven by the needs of residents, DHSP’s extensive services and programs touch almost every sector in the city: from newborns to senior citizens, from school‑aged children to homeless families, from non‑profit organizations to local employers.

ABOUT THE ROLE: The Council on Aging (COA) is the “front door” of services and supports for older residents and caregivers. The COA offers a wide range of programs, activities, classes, and social services both virtually and in person at its two senior centers. The Food Services Manager will support the nutritional needs of older adults through the smooth operation of a congregate‑based meals program and other events and programs that support the social well‑being of seniors in Cambridge.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plan well‑balanced and healthy monthly menus to increase participation in the Senior Center Meals Program.
• Focus on the dietary needs and restrictions of older adults to ensure that high quality, healthy foods are served to participants.
• Collaborate with Nutrition Department Staff at Somerville Cambridge Elder Services.
• Purchase fresh foods and related supplies required for the Meals Program and for special events and programs, staying within approved budget.
• Check the quantity and quality of received products and ensure safe storage of both perishable and shelf‑stable non/food items.
• Clean and maintain commercial kitchen equipment.
• Ensure local health and safety standards are maintained; prepare kitchen for inspection and assist local health inspectors as required.
• Supervise 2 to 3 kitchen staff who assist with food prep and clean up.
• Ensure staff under their supervision are maintaining appropriate documentation related to operational procedures and following protocols to ensure food safety.
• Provide on‑the‑job training for staff as needed, coaching and support for their professional development.
• Manage various approved vendors for kitchen supplies, food products, appliances, etc.
• Collaborate with other Council on Aging/Senior Center Staff to plan and develop menus for special events, culturally based programs, and educational programs for up to 100 participants.
• Prepare, cook, and serve meals daily with average attendance of 85 participants with pride and exceptional customer service.
• Plan, develop, and evaluate menus with a focus on foods that promote brain and cognitive health.
• Provide support to inter‑departmental job‑readiness program.
• Follow established policy regarding suggested meals financial contribution.
• Submit paperwork as required and provide written reports.
• Actively engage in and support the Department’s Race and Equity Initiative.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Associate degree with three to five (3–5) years of related work experience or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Supervisory experience.
• Special Requirement: Must have Serv‑Safe Certification, Allergy Awareness, Choke Safe, and CPR.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of food handling rules/guidelines and proper sanitation practices in food preparations and cooking.
• Ability to deal with the seniors and other members of the public in a patient and understanding manner; ability to multi‑task.
• Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint.
• Commitment to anti‑racism, diversity, equity and inclusion.
• The City of Cambridge’s workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

CORI REQUIREMENTS: This position is subject to Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) checks.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, WORKING CONDITIONS, WORK FLEXIBILITY AND ACCOMMODATIONS:

• Ability to operate industrial‑sized equipment including stove, oven, convection oven, deli slicer, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher.
• A fast paced and physically small setting for preparation, cooking and serving of meals.
• Job requires standing and walking for a good part of the day.
• Stove and oven heat often affect the temperature of the kitchen area.
• Meals must be ready for serving at appointed times.
• Ability to lift a minimum of up to 50 lbs., such as supplies, food, and equipment.

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Vacation and sick leave eligible.
• Paid parental leave.
• Sick incentive pay eligible.
• 3 Personal days.
• 14 paid holidays.
• Management allowance, $2,700/year.
• City employee commuter benefits (T‑Pass reimbursement, Bluebikes membership, EZRide Shuttle membership).

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

• Resume
• Cover letter