Dietary service supervisors oversee the supply of food in places such as schools, nursing homes, cafeterias, and hospitals. In these settings, meals are usually provided on a mass scale, though some altering may be necessary in order to fit certain dietary restrictions.
To become a dietary services supervisor, some may need to complete a program of study related to nutrition or dietetics and have a registered dietitian or nutritionist certification. However, depending on the needs of the facility, some employers simply prefer those with many years of experience in the food service field. The supervisor will supervise a team which prepares meals, so strong leadership and management skills are important in this position. The supervisor will also hire and fire staff when necessary and provide performance feedback to employees, and is typically in charge of scheduling, payroll, and other administrative duties.
These supervisors must have in-depth knowledge of a variety of cuisines and nutritional values of meals and ensure that all meals are prepared in a clean and sanitary area; they may also have inventory duties so that stock levels can be maintained optimally. Incoming food supplies should also be inspected for quality, and it may be important to keep food purchase costs low, so deal searching and bargaining skills are highly beneficial. In some jobs, the supervisor will also have marketing duties in order to search for clients.
Dietary Services Supervisor Tasks
Schedule and receive food and beverage deliveries.
Prepare a variety of foods according to patient's meal plan.
Supervise staff and give direction.
Assist in hiring, training and reviewing performance of staff.
Ensure food service is in compliance with nutritional, safety, sanitation and quality standards, state and federal regulatory requirements.