Culinary Manager

Overview

SUPERVISOR: Volunteer & Operations Manager

POSITION SUMMARY: The Culinary Experience Manager is responsible for the execution and administrative management of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central PA’s daily meal and Guest Chef programs, serving 50–75 guests per meal in our 36-bedroom House. This role combines hands-on culinary leadership (including menu development, meal preparation, and volunteer instruction) with the structured administration of a funded food service program.

In addition to cooking and teaching, this position is responsible for the administrative systems required to sustain program quality, safety, and funding viability. Success in this role requires a highly organized, system-driven professional who can balance daily execution with long-term program sustainability goals.

This is a relationship-focused role that works directly with volunteers, donors, and guest families and provides daily instruction and oversight to volunteer groups. While the position has no direct reports, it exercises leadership through guidance, accountability, and adherence to established standards and procedures.

• Develop and execute a safe and healthy food service program with 75% scratch cooking that delivers quality, variety, and value for RMHC-CP families
• Create and execute menus that reflect cultural diversity, dietary restrictions, and special needs using donated and purchased foods
• Provide hands-on instruction, guidance, and oversight to volunteer groups participating in the Guest Chef Program, ensuring safe and meaningful experiences
• Communicate proactively with volunteers participating in all meal programs (Guest Chef, Meals from the Heart, Baking, and other opportunities) to ensure clarity, support, and adherence to program requirements
• Create specialized menus and culinary experiences for holidays and special events to provide memorable experiences for guest families
• Promptly investigate and resolve complaints regarding food quality or safety concerns
• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, community organizations, and repeat volunteer teams to increase program participation and philanthropic support
• Collaborate with Development and Marketing teams to highlight Guest Chef and meal programs, converting volunteer participation into long-term support and donations
• Design and implement initiatives that increase volunteer retention, community engagement, and program visibility

• Maintain an organized inventory and supply system; order, receive, and track food and supplies to minimize waste, using first-in/first-out (FIFO) practices
• Track and analyze food waste, nutrition, and program metrics to support operational decisions and funding sustainability
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety regulations; maintain Serv Safe certification and all required documentation
• Assist in providing accurate data and documentation for internal review, partner agencies, and grant funder reports
• Forecast program needs, recommend equipment or capital expenditures, and implement improvements to kitchen systems and processes
• Collaborate with Facilities, Operations, and Marketing teams to ensure kitchen equipment maintenance and program visibility
• Participate in continuous professional development to stay current with culinary trends, food safety, and program best practices
• Additional duties related to organizational operations may be assigned.

Success in the Culinary Experience Manager role is measured by a balance of hands-on culinary execution, volunteer engagement, administrative accuracy, and program sustainability. Key indicators include:

• Meal Quality & Guest
  
  Experience:
  
  Nutritious, well-balanced, and culturally responsive meals that meet guest family needs; volunteers feel supported and meaningfully engaged.
• Administrative Excellence:
  Inventory, ordering, waste tracking, nutrition data, and compliance records are timely, accurate, and audit-ready, with consistent reporting for internal and grant requirements.
• Community Engagement & Sustainability:
  Volunteer groups, local businesses, and community…