Full time Kitchen Coordinator, Community Centre

Position Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm [40 hours per week].

Based on interview availability, applications may be reviewed asap upon submission and qualified candidates, contact immediately or shortly following. This posting will remain open for 2 weeks (Deadline: August 6, 2026) OR until capacity, so please apply at your earliest convenience for consideration - Thank you!

*We kindly ask that candidates limit the use of AI tools in preparing an application & we do not use AI for recruitment with human recruiters screening submissions. Overview The Kitchen Coordinator is responsible for the preparation and service of large volumes of high-quality food for our Community Centre guests.

The Kitchen

Coordinator will also work with the Program Director in ensuring a meaningful and mentoring relationship is provided to trainees enrolled in the Employment Services program. They will work collaboratively with Community Centre staff in a fast paced, high-pressure environment optimizing time, space and staff allocation to reach all daily targets and deadlines.

Specific

Responsibilities

- Provide training, direct supervision, guidance and support for employees and volunteers
- Ensure proper cleaning, sanitation, and health and safety requirements are always followed
- Maintain a clean, organized and sanitary kitchen always
- Develop and maintain interdepartmental relationships within Ray of Hope and coordinate with other departments as needed
- Supervise all aspects of food service for the guests accessing the Community Centre




- Ensure food preparation and service meets Ray of Hope’s requirements daily; which includes serving a balanced menu while being creative and flexible in the use of donated food items
- Receive food bank deliveries; ensure proper rotation and labelling and ensure food is stored in accordance with required standards
- Ensure refrigerator, freezers and storerooms are organized and maintained
- Maintain appropriate levels of fresh/frozen/dry product and paper inventory
- Implement and maintain cost control measures and minimize waste
- Plan food requirements for training and special events as requested by Ray of Hope if capacity exists to do so
- Work collaboratively to train recent staff and volunteers as required
- Manage petty cash/wholesale accounts/credit card, including disbursements as well as coding of receipts and invoices
- Collaborate to develop and implement new food service routines, procedures, and policies as required
- Attend all mandatory staff meetings and training
- Complete reports and other documentation as required ensuring compliance with local Health Unit standards
- Other duties as assigned Qualifications

Education

- High School Education with progressive experience OR • Post-Secondary education in a related field

Experience • Previous supervisory experience in food services required

- Minimum 3 years culinary experience
- Previous experience working with vulnerable people an asset





Preferred Certifications (ongoing training will be provided)

- Safe Food Handling Certificate
- Standard First Aid and level C CPR/AED
- Crisis Intervention

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities required to be successful in this position • Demonstrated knowledge of food quality, production, cost controls, presentation and all health and safety practices as relevant to operating a commercial kitchen

- Ability to always communicate in a professional manner
- Encompasses a leadership style that is compassionate and assertive
- Ability to be efficient while working independently or when leading/working in a team
- Must be organized and able to prioritize competing tasks; create lists and schedules
- Ability to delegate appropriate tasks
- Proficient in reading, writing, speaking and comprehension in the English Language (CLB-8)
- Manual dexterity required for use of kitchen tools and appliances

Requirements

- Vulnerable Sector Check/Police Check
- Valid, unrestricted Class “G” Ontario Driver’s licence
- Ministry of Transportation Drivers Abstract through Service Ontario
- Employment Medical Form including immunization record and fitness assessment

Physical Demands

- Ability to stand for long periods of time (up to 8 hours)
- Mental effort required; working under pressure, fast paced environment, minimally supporting trainees in the Employment Services program, schedule management, driving
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs, possibly, with or without use of a cart
- Occasional environmental exposures to cold, heat, and water
- Emergencies must be responded to which could require occasional evening and weekend availability

📌 Kitchen Coordinator - Community Centre (Kitchener)
🏢 Ray of Hope
📍 Kitchener