Food Services Coordinator

Job Title: Food Services Coordinator
Department: Business Operations
Reports To: Director of Business Operations
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Classification: Exempt

Overview

The Food Services Coordinator is responsible for overseeing daily food service operations at Pine Haven Boys Center. This includes meal planning, food preparation, kitchen organization, inventory management, purchasing, and administration of the New Hampshire Food and Nutrition Program.

This role is primarily hands-on in the kitchen while maintaining operational oversight to ensure meals are nutritious, appealing, and prepared in a safe, clean, and organized environment. The Food Services Coordinator supports the health and well-being of youth residing in care while ensuring compliance with applicable food service regulations, licensing standards, and organizational policies.

Distinguishing Characteristics

• Combines hands-on meal preparation with responsibility for coordinating kitchen operations and workflow.
• Serves as the lead point of contact for the New Hampshire Food and Nutrition Program, including program administration, compliance, and audit readiness.
• Operates with a high level of independence while aligning with organizational expectations and residential program needs.
• Balances daily food production with administrative responsibilities such as ordering, budgeting, inventory management, and recordkeeping.
• Adapts to changing program needs while maintaining consistency in food service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Food Service & Meal Preparation

• Plan and prepare weekly menus that meet nutritional guidelines and the needs of youth.
• Prepare and serve daily lunch and dinner meals (Monday-Friday).
• Prepare meals in advance for weekend use (Saturday-Sunday).
• Ensure meals are balanced, nutritious, and appealing.
• Monitor portion sizes and maintain consistent food quality.
• Accommodate dietary needs, allergies, and restrictions as required.
• Promote healthy eating habits and provide basic nutrition education when appropriate.

Kitchen & Operational Oversight

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen and dining environment.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations and workflow.
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and temperature control procedures.
• Follow all applicable food safety, sanitation, health, and licensing regulations.
• Monitor inventory and maintain appropriate stock levels.
• Order food and supplies in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs promptly.
• Ensure kitchen operations meet standards established by USDA, the New Hampshire Food and Nutrition Program, DHHS, local health authorities, and organizational policy.

Food Program Administration

• Serve as the primary contact for the New Hampshire Food and Nutrition Program.
• Ensure compliance with all state and federal program requirements.
• Complete and maintain required documentation, meal counts, reimbursement records, and compliance reports.
• Stay current with program regulations and implement updates as needed.
• Prepare for and participate in audits, inspections, licensing reviews, and program monitoring visits.
• Maintain records and documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements and organizational standards.

Collaboration & Support

• Work collaboratively with residential, clinical, educational, and administrative staff to support program needs.
• Help maintain a positive, respectful, trauma-informed, and structured dining environment.
• Model professionalism, appropriate boundaries, ethical conduct, and confidentiality at all times.
• Support daily schedules and adapt to the needs of the program.
• Contribute to a safe environment that promotes the health and well-being of youth.

Administrative Duties

• Track food purchases and maintain accurate records.
• Manage food service operations within established budget guidelines.
• Support emergency food planning and organizational preparedness efforts.
• Attend staff meetings and complete all required trainings.
• Maintain certifications and training requirements related to food safety and program compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall program.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in food service, institutional cooking, or a related setting preferred.
• Knowledge of basic nutrition, meal planning, and food safety practices.
• Ability to prepare meals for groups in an efficient and safe manner.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and follow established procedures.
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire) required.
• ANAB-accredited Food Manager Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire) required.
• Ability to successfully complete all required background checks, criminal record checks, child protection screenings, and other employment requirements applicable to residential child care facilities.
• Ability to complete and maintain all required trainings, certifications, and clearances in accordance with organizational policy and applicable regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid driver's license.
• Experience working in a residential or youth-serving program.
• Familiarity with state or federal food programs.
• Experience with inventory management and budgeting.
• Knowledge of USDA meal guidelines and reimbursement requirements.
• Ability to develop cost-effective, nutritious, and appealing meal plans.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily in a commercial kitchen within a residential youth facility. The role requires standing for extended periods, frequent movement, and the ability to lift and carry food supplies and equipment. The environment is fast-paced and requires adherence to strict food safety, sanitation, and operational standards.

The Food Services Coordinator regularly interacts with staff and youth and must maintain a calm, organized, and supportive atmosphere while adapting to the dynamic needs of the program. As an employee of a licensed residential care facility, the Food Services Coordinator is expected to uphold standards related to resident safety, confidentiality, professional conduct, mandated reporting, and compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.