Directs food service operations within the community including all food preparation, dining room operations and dining delivery services. Purchases all food and manages inventory ensuring effective cost controls and vendor service and quality. Ensures the highest nutrition and food quality for the health and pleasure of the residents. Complies with all federal, state and local regulations to ensure sanitary and safe operations. Plans and executes entertaining dining events and themes in conjunction with Activities Director, Marketing Director and other administrative staff to optimize the life and pleasure of the residents. May also cater events as requested by residents or staff.Hires, trains and manages all supervisory staff for the kitchen, dining room, catering and delivery services. Ensures that supervisors maintain a safe and sanitary environment and provide a caring and pleasurable dining experience for the residents. Coaches supervisors in maintaining appropriate staffing levels and effectively motivating, disciplining and training associates.Consults with chefs and cooks to develop and maintain pleasing and nutritious menus. Assesses and determines the desires and preferences of the residents regarding food selection and presentation through surveys and daily contact with residents. Ensures preferences are incorporated into the menu and events. Understands the dietary needs of residents and coordinates with dieticians, nursing staff, and care associates to ensure proper selection, preparation and delivery of meals.Develops department budget including purchasing and staffing expenditures. Approves food orders from company or selected food vendors and ensures a proper level of inventory to meet demand and minimize cost and waste. Routinely monitors budget compliance and recommends changes as needed to maintain operational quality and resident satisfaction.Encourages the identification of enjoyable ways to encourage socialization and enjoyment of residents through the use of food presentation and events. Improves the décor and condition of dining rooms to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.Networks with Regional Food Service Directors to improve operations, reduce costs and to obtain new program ideas for creative operations.This job description represents an overview of the responsibilities for the above referenced position. It is not intended to represent a comprehensive list of responsibilities. An associate should perform all duties as assigned by his/her supervisor.Grow your senior livingcareer at Brookdale Westland Meridian in Lakewood, CO!Dining Director Opportunity! 153 Unit Independent Living Senior Community setting!Early Access to Paycheck with Earned Wage Access is available for Hourly AssociatesMake Lives Better Including Your Own.If you want to work in an environment where you can become your best possible self, join us! Youll earn more than a paycheck; you can find opportunities to grow your career through professional development, as well as ongoing programs catered to your overall health and wellness.Full Time Benefits EligibilityMedical, Dental, Vision insurance401(k)Associate assistance programEmployee discountsReferral programEarly access to earned wagesOptional voluntary benefits including ID theft protection and pet insurancePaid Time OffPaid holidaysCompany provided life insuranceAdoption benefitDisability (short and long term)Flexible Spending AccountsHealth Savings AccountOptional life and dependent life insuranceOptional voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity Insurance, and legal planTuition reimbursementBase pay in range will be determined by applicants skills and experience. Full-time associates in role are eligible for an annual bonus incentive and sales referral bonuses.Veterans, transitioning active duty military personnel, and military spouses are encouraged to apply.Please note, Brookdale is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding mandatory COVID-19 vaccination.To support our associates in their journey to become a U.S. citizen, Brookdale offers to advance fees for naturalization (Form N-400) application costs, up to $725, less applicable taxes and withholding, for qualified associates who have been with us for at least a year.The application window is anticipated to close within 30 days of the date of the posting.