Brookdale Resource Center
Kitchen Manager
Location: Macon, Georgia
Department: Brookdale Resource Center
Reports To: Manager of Operations or Executive Director
Employment Status: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Kitchen Manager runs the shelter's food service program, ensuring safe, nutritious meals are provided efficiently to guests experiencing homelessness while maintaining food safety, sanitation, and fiscal responsibility. This role oversees meal planning, staff, volunteers, inventory, donations, and compliance to support a welcoming, dignified environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Kitchen Operations
- Manage daily operations, scheduling, and dining areas.
- Plan and prepare balanced, nutritious meals within capacity and budget constraints.
- Control portions and minimize waste.
Food Safety and Sanitation
- Maintain full compliance with local, state, and federal food safety laws.
- Enforce strict cleaning schedules and log required safety data.
- Train staff and volunteers on food safety and prepare for inspections.
Food Purchasing and Inventory Management
- Track inventory and purchase supplies according to budget and capacity.
- Implement FIFO practices, manage expiration dates, and organize storage.
Food Donations and Community Partnerships
- Inspect, store, and utilize food donations efficiently.
- Maintain positive relationships with local donors, food banks, and businesses.
Staff and Volunteer Supervision
- Supervise, schedule, train, and coach kitchen staff and volunteers.
- Foster a respectful, trauma-informed, and compassionate team environment.
Guest Service and Shelter Support
- Accommodate dietary needs, allergies, and restrictions while promoting guest choices and dignity.
- Collaborate with case managers and participate in shelter meetings.
Budget and Administrative Responsibilities
- Operate within the food service budget, maintaining receipts and reports.
- Develop annual budgets and kitchen policies.
Equipment and Facility Management
- Inspect and maintain appliances, reporting repair needs promptly.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 2–3 years of commercial or institutional food service experience.
- ServSafe Manager certification.
- Previous supervisory experience and strong organizational skills.
- Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Preferred
- High-volume kitchen or nonprofit human services experience.
- Experience with budgets, volunteer management, and trauma-informed care.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage food costs, inventory, and meal plans under budget.
- Commitment to reducing homelessness and treating all guests with dignity and respect.
Working Conditions
Based in a shelter environment with regular interaction with guests. Work involves exposure to heat, cold, steam, and chemicals in a commercial kitchen. Requires prolonged standing, walking, and occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. A flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Brookdale Resource Center provides equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or other protected status.
Disclaimer
This job description outlines general job duties, which may be modified based on organizational needs, and is not an exhaustive list.
Interested applicants please send a cover letter along with your resume to acallaway@brookdalerc.org.