DoD SkillBridge: Dining Director

DoD SkillBridge Internship: Dining Director

SkillBridge Industry Mentor: Juniper Communities SkillBridge Provider: Vets2PM LLC Location: Williamstown, Hamilton, or Chatham, New Jersey *Perfect opportunity for an E-5 or above* Applicants must be active-duty U.S. Military Members who qualify for the DoD SkillBridge Program. To Apply: Apply to this posting and then go to and complete the SkillBridge interest form.

About the company: Juniper Village is dedicated to nurturing the spirit of life in each individual whose life we touch so that we may all live fully throughout all seasons of life. We do this by encouraging an active body, an engaged mind and a fulfilled spirit. Juniper Village owns, operates and manages hospitality retirement communities in various regions across the country. The company's operations are designed and managed to provide the finest quality personal service and exceptional care to foster healthy and independent lives for those who live and work in our communities. The company's team of experienced committed individuals is deeply committed to achieving the company's mission and balancing quality in service, program and environment with financial stability and prosperity. Together, we nurture the spirit of life.

Company website:

Desired Military Experience, Backgrounds, and/or Aptitude Culinary Specialists / Food Service Specialists Galley Operations / Supply Chain Management Leading Mess Management Teams Logistics / Inventory Control Operational Leadership in Dining Facilities

Internship Summary Juniper Communities is seeking a Dining Director SkillBridge Intern to assist with leading and managing the operations of a hospitality retirement community's dining services department. This is a leadership role that blends hospitality, food service management, and resident care. As a Dining Director Intern, you'll gain valuable experience overseeing food service operations, supervising culinary staff, maintaining health and safety standards, and ensuring that meals meet the dietary needs of older adults. You will assist with menu planning, inventory control, vendor coordination, budgeting, and special event dining experiences. This internship is ideal for transitioning service members with backgrounds in logistics, food service management, galley operations, or leading teams in high-volume environments. You will also gain hands-on leadership experience through staff supervision, sanitation compliance, and interdepartmental collaboration. Dining services at Juniper is about creating community and delivering exceptional service every day.

Responsibilities

• Ensure continuous high-quality food service through effective oversight and delegation
• Enforce sanitation, safety, and compliance with all health regulations and Juniper policies
• Manage procurement, inventory, and budgeting for food and kitchen supplies
• Support food production and meal delivery to meet dietary standards and resident preferences
• Collaborate with leadership to coordinate dining events and support special occasions
• Maintain effective communication with residents, families, and staff
• Supervise, schedule, and evaluate Dining Services staff
• Assist with training, coaching, and performance management of team members

Requirements

• High School Diploma required
• Culinary or food service management education preferred
• Experience managing high-volume production kitchens with 30+ staff preferred
• Knowledge of food service equipment and kitchen operations
• Familiarity with health department guidelines and food safety regulations
• Understanding of the dietary needs and preferences of older adults
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills

Compensation Range : If hired after the internship the target compensation range is $52K - $78K. This compensation can vary depending on experience level, certifications, and other factors.

[ NOTE: Because this is a SkillBridge Internship, it is understood that no single candidate will have equal expertise in all the areas of responsibility listed. Successful candidates will possess a compelling combination of many of them and the self-awareness and wisdom to leverage existing and/or new resources in the area(s) where they lack personal mastery.] Vets2PM Provides: PMP/CAPM Certification Training Mentorship and guidance via weekly SkillBridge Intern Zoom Meetings. PM Fundamentals course, Resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and interview skills course. Other free resources, including an electronic copy of 'How to Speak Civilian Fluently'. Other: Not all internships include certification training by Vets2PM, as many host companies include their own internship-focused training instead. If selected for an internship with Vets2PM please read your approval email, letter, and training plan to be sure you understand what is included in your internship.