Dietary Manager - Gateway Post Acute

Position: Dietary Manager
Location: Gateway Post Acute, Porterville, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $67,000 - $75,000, depending on experience
Job Summary

Gateway Post Acute, a skilled nursing facility in Porterville, CA, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Dietary Manager to oversee all aspects of our dietary department. The Dietary Manager will be responsible for managing staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining high standards of food quality and safety for our residents. This position plays a critical role in enhancing resident satisfaction and supporting their overall wellness.
Key Responsibilities

Department Leadership

• Supervise, train, and mentor dietary staff, including cooks, dietary aides, and other support personnel.
• Create staff schedules and ensure adequate coverage across all shifts.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to foster professional growth.

Menu Planning & Food Preparation

• Collaborate with registered dietitians and healthcare team members to develop and review menus that meet residents' nutritional needs and dietary restrictions.
• Oversee daily food preparation and service, ensuring meals are both appealing and nutritionally balanced.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, presentation, and temperature control.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations governing food service in a skilled nursing facility.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for inspections, sanitation requirements, and compliance audits.
• Implement and monitor HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) procedures and other safety protocols.

Budget & Inventory Management

• Manage the dietary department's budget, controlling costs while ensuring quality meals and necessary supplies.
• Oversee ordering, storage, and inventory of food, beverages, and supplies to prevent shortages or waste.
• Negotiate with vendors to obtain quality products at competitive prices.

Resident Care & Satisfaction

• Interact with residents, families, and the healthcare team to address dietary concerns or special requests.
• Conduct regular meal rounds to gather feedback and ensure resident satisfaction.
• Adapt menus and dining services to support individualized care plans when needed.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the facility's administration, nursing, and other departments to coordinate resident care and dietary services.
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and initiatives to optimize resident health and well-being.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; degree or certification in nutrition, culinary arts, or related field preferred.
• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) or eligibility strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in a supervisory role within a healthcare or long-term care dietary department.
• Thorough knowledge of state and federal regulations, particularly those relevant to skilled nursing facilities and dietary services (e.g., Title 22, CMS guidelines).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage inventory, budgets, and supply relationships effectively.
• Proficiency in using computer systems for menu planning, ordering, and documentation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk throughout the facility for extended periods.
• Capacity to lift and move items of moderate weight (up to 25 lbs.).
• Manual dexterity to operate kitchen equipment safely.

Benefits (may include but are not limited to)

• Competitive annual salary ($67,000 - $75,000) based on experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

If you're a passionate dietary professional with strong leadership skills and a commitment to providing quality meals in a caring environment, we encourage you to apply for the Dietary Manager position at Gateway Post Acute. Join our team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents each day!