Director of Culinary Experience

Job Description

Job Description

Director of Culinary Experience at The Reserve at Lake Austin

Love to make a difference in the lives of seniors?

At Solera Senior Living, we are guided by our Core Values—Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and Creativity—in everything we do. We are seeking a Director of Culinary Experience who is passionate about hospitality, nutrition, and team leadership, and who is committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences that enhance residents’ quality of life.

What Solera Offers You

• A growing company with opportunities for career advancement

• Immediate pay access — no more waiting for payday

• Tuition reimbursement to support your professional growth

• Comprehensive medical benefits with discounted gym memberships

• Dental, vision, life, and disability insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid holidays and paid time off

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Perks and employee discount programs

• Supportive, team-oriented workplace culture

Position Overview

The Director of Culinary Experience leads all culinary operations for the community, ensuring high-quality, nutritious meals are prepared and served in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. This role oversees menu planning, food preparation, sanitation, budgeting, inventory control, and team development while ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.

The Director of Culinary Experience partners closely with the General Manager and interdisciplinary team to align dining services with resident preferences, clinical needs, and Solera hospitality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate culinary team members

• Provide coaching, performance feedback, and disciplinary recommendations as needed

• Conduct in-service training and ongoing education for culinary staff

• Ensure appropriate coverage and continuity of service at all times

Culinary Operations & Resident Experience

• Plan, prepare, and oversee the delivery of all meals served in the community

• Develop menus in accordance with regulatory requirements, nutritional standards, and resident preferences

• Visit residents regularly to understand likes, dislikes, and dietary needs

• Support therapeutic and special diets in coordination with care teams and physician orders

• Assist with meal preparation as needed to support service excellence

Food Safety, Compliance & Sanitation

• Maintain compliance with ServSafe, food handling, and sanitation standards

• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local food service regulations

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen and dining environment

• Inspect food storage, supply areas, and equipment regularly

Budgeting, Inventory & Purchasing

• Manage food, supply, and labor costs within approved budget guidelines

• Order food and supplies; maintain accurate inventories and portion controls

• Prepare annual budget requests and monitor monthly spending

• Implement systems to ensure quality, consistency, and cost control

Operations, Documentation & Collaboration

• Maintain accurate documentation including menus, evaluations, purchase orders, and policies

• Participate in daily leadership stand-up meetings

• Assist with resident care planning and attend care conferences as applicable

• Support community marketing efforts through tours, events, and special programs

• Plan and prepare food for activities, marketing events, and special occasions

• Perform other duties as assigned by the General Manager

Required Qualifications & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or education in food service, hospitality, or leadership preferred

• ServSafe / Food Handler’s Certification required (or ability to obtain)

• Supervisory or leadership experience in culinary operations; healthcare or senior living experience preferred

• Knowledge of quantity food production, nutrition, and therapeutic diets

• Ability to manage budgets, inventory, and food cost controls

• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make sound decisions under pressure

• Passion for serving older adults and enhancing their daily dining experience

Solera Senior Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.