Culinary Director

Culinary Director
Pawnee Behavioral Health
Pawnee, OK | Full-Time | On-Site

About Us
Pawnee Behavioral Health is a mission-driven recovery center focused on whole-person care. We believe that food is part of the healing process—providing not just nutrition, but connection and comfort. We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Culinary Director to lead our food service program and help support our clients’ recovery through high-quality, therapeutic meals.

Job Summary
The Culinary Director oversees all aspects of food services within the recovery center, including menu planning, food preparation, staff supervision, and compliance with dietary and food safety regulations. This role plays a key part in fostering a supportive and healing environment through excellent meal service.

Responsibilities

• Plan weekly/monthly menus in collaboration with a Registered Dietitian (when required).


• Hire, train, and manage kitchen staff including cooks, dietary aides, and dishwashers.


• Maintain compliance with Oklahoma food safety regulations and Joint Commission standards.


• Monitor kitchen inventory, place orders, and manage vendor relationships within budget.


• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in kitchen and dining areas.


• Coordinate with clinical teams to meet medical and cultural dietary needs.


• Implement nutrition-focused programming when appropriate (e.g., therapeutic cooking).


• Maintain accurate food service records and prepare for audits and inspections.


• Respond to client and staff feedback to continuously improve meal services.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (required)


• Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential approved by the State of Oklahoma (or ability to get within first 30 days of employment)


• Minimum 5 years of food service experience, including 2 years in a supervisory role
  


• Willing to work flexible hours, including some weekends and holidays

Preferred

• Certificate or degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality, or related field


• Experience in a healthcare, behavioral health, or residential facility

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management


• Knowledge of state and federal food safety regulations


• Menu planning and budget management


• Excellent communication and collaboration with clinical teams


• Culturally sensitive approach to meal planning and delivery

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced indoor environment within a residential healthcare setting


• Frequent standing, lifting (50lbs), and multitasking


• Must be able to manage priorities under pressure and lead through change

Benefits

• Competitive pay (commensurate with experience)


• Health benefits and PTO


• Opportunities for advancement and professional growth


• Mission-driven culture focused on community and healing

Equal Opportunity Employer
Pawnee Behavioral Health is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion in our workplace. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, or genetic information.

Preference in hiring will be given to qualified Native American applicants and U.S. military veterans in accordance with applicable federal, tribal, and state laws.