Culinary Director

Culinary Director

Join our team and make a difference! Washington DC Department of Corrections is hiring a Culinary Director to oversee our culinary training and retail services. This role combines culinary creativity, retail management, and community engagement to prepare individuals for successful re-entry through Aramark's In2Work (I2W) program.

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $70,000. Benefits: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, and work/life resources. Additional benefits may include retirement savings plans like 401(k) and paid days off such as parental leave and disability coverage. Benefits vary by location and are subject to any legal requirements or limitations, employee eligibility status, and where the employee lives and/or works.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all culinary training and retail food service operations supporting the In2Work (I2W) re-entry program.
• Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive culinary training curriculum that prepares program participants for employment in the food service and hospitality industry.
• Supervise daily kitchen and retail operations, ensuring consistent quality, efficiency, and compliance with food safety, sanitation, and Department of Corrections regulations.
• Mentor, train, and evaluate program participants, fostering professional skills, confidence, accountability, and job readiness.
• Manage inventory, food costs, purchasing, and budgeting to support operational and retail goals while maintaining financial accountability.
• Collaborate with Aramark, DOC leadership, and community partners to support workforce development, job placement, and successful re-entry outcomes.
• Develop and maintain retail food service concepts that reflect culinary creativity, customer satisfaction, and market demand.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and operational policies within a correctional environment.
• Monitor program performance, track outcomes, and prepare reports related to training progress, operational metrics, and participant success.
• Serve as a positive ambassador for the I2W program by supporting community engagement initiatives and representing the program professionally.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Food Service Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including kitchen management and staff supervision.
• Experience in retail food service operations, including menu development, cost control, and customer-focused service models.
• Demonstrated ability to train, mentor, and coach individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards, sanitation regulations, and quality assurance practices.
• Proven organizational, leadership, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a structured environment.
• Ability to work effectively within a correctional setting, adhering to strict security, safety, and compliance requirements.
• Passion for community impact, rehabilitation, and creating pathways to employment through education and skill-building.
• Proficiency in basic business operations, including budgeting, reporting, and performance tracking.
• ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.