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Program Manager (P/T): providing food security to transform lives

Providing food security & social connection, we transform lives!

 

·       Care about hunger reduction and food rescue?

·       Enjoy training and coaching small groups?

·       Love great food?

·       Skilled at planning and coordinating?

·       Value a cheerful, positive, and mission-driven work environment?

 

We’re seeking a Program Manager to join our collaborative, enthusiastic team at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring where we prepare and deliver delicious meals to homebound seniors, disabled people and veterans.

 

In this role, you will:

1.        Guide, train, and coach our volunteer kitchen assistant teams

2.        Plan our daily deli meal sandwiches and salads alongside the Chef and Deli Coordinator

3.        Welcome and incorporate food donations, maintaining relationships in the food rescue community

4.        Order food from a range of sources, including local farmers

 

Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring

Position Posting: PROGRAM MANAGER [onsite/PART-TIME]

OUR MISSION & VISION

With a vision of a more resilient, interconnected, and compassionate community, Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring’s mission is to nourish our community. We do this through the preparation and delivery of healthy, delicious meals to our homebound neighbors and other programs that support our community.

 

OUR CULTURE

In this workplace, we are focused on and guided by our mission and our vision. We are honest, kind, respectful, and encouraging; we communicate openly and directly. There is space for curiosity and innovation. We express a generosity of spirit, understanding that everyone makes mistakes, and we learn from our own. We work hard, we pitch in where needed, and we trust that others are working hard, too. Our small, friendly team enjoys working together and supporting one another.

OUR ORGANIZATION & TEAM

Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring (TPSS) is all about our people: 8 staff, 250 clients/year, and 150+ volunteers. We are a small, lively group of dedicated nonprofit professionals, and we work closely to ensure operations run smoothly. As a direct service organization, we work hard, and our work is imbued with shared camaraderie.

THE POSITION

The Program Manager, Deli Meals is passionate about food, cooking, and serving our homebound neighbors. The Program Manager reports to the Executive Director (ED) and works in partnership with the Chef and the Deli Coordinator towards the day-to-day success and long-term growth of our program.

 

The Program Manager is responsible for planning and preparing the daily deli meal (sandwich, 2 sides, juice & milk). The Program Manager is supported by and coordinates the efforts of the Deli Coordinator and the volunteers who assist in the kitchen. The Program Manager also coordinates with external partners for gleaning and events that include packaging shelf-stable meals.

 

The Program Manager is relied upon to complete your responsibilities each day; working closely and collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers as well as independently. You are excited about working at a nonprofit and committed to our mission of delivering delicious meals to our homebound neighbors. You are passionate about preparing great food and you also have administrative and training skills. You take pride in being consistent in your work, you are able to see how pieces and process flow together, and you communicate well to support a smooth-running operation. 

 

A TYPICAL DAY

·   8:30am arrive to cheerful greetings from other staff who are also arriving; check email.

·   Confer with Chef Anthony and Deli Coordinator Steve, help set out items for Kitchen Assistants and greet them on their 9am arrival. Everyone admires the kale and rhubarb that was donated the day before and you have a lively discussion about how we can use the rhubarb for our clients.

·   9:45am, the kitchen is filled with laughter and jokes, as is the office, as you settle down at your computer, emailing with our gleaning partners (gleaning is gathering food that is rescued or donated). You call a local farmer, from whom we buy produce, and ask if they have anything available that we can use. They have a fresh crop of spring greens. You let the Operations Manager know that we’ll need to have payment ready for them.

·   11am, go back into the kitchen to make sure the kitchen assistants are helping Chef Anthony plate up that day’s hot meals and you help out where needed.

·   12:30pm, all the meals have been ferried out by volunteer drivers for delivery to our homebound clients (seniors, disabled people, and veterans) and you grab a quick lunch in the conference room with other staff.

·   After lunch, you call one of our volunteers who is available to ferry some packages of grapes to a food pantry where they can use them while they are still fresh. At 1pm, you are winding down for the day and after a last email check, you turn off your computer at 1:30pm and head home.

QUALIFICATIONS:

·   Must be licensed by Montgomery County, MD as a food safety manager, or become licensed within 3 months of hire (costs covered by Meals on Wheels).

·   Value and support the mission of Meals on Wheels.

·   Able to work closely on a team with other staff and volunteers, as well as independently.

·   Deal tactfully with the public, especially volunteers.

·   Establish and maintain an efficient, orderly kitchen and properly prioritize demands to meet tight time deadlines.

·   Maintain a courteous, helpful manner and actively build up and support colleagues.

 

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

·   High School graduate or equivalent required.

·   At least three years of experience in nonprofit work (paid or volunteer) required. Preference for experience with supervision of volunteers, program management, and/or group meal preparation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, talk, see, hear, walk, handle objects and tools, and reach with arms and hands.  The employee must frequently lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift or move objects up to 40 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.   

HOURS, COMPENSATION, AND BENEFITS.  Hours are 8:30am-1:30pm M-Th and 9:30am-2:30pm F. Starting salary is 30K-35K annually, depending on experience (experience in food systems, food security, meal prep, or supervising volunteer teams required to start at the higher end of the range); benefits including paid vacation starting at 3 weeks, 10 days paid sick leave, paid child sick & dependent family leave, sabbatical opportunity at 5 years of employment; other types of leave and benefits as described in the Staff Handbook.

HIRING POLICY. Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring celebrates, supports, and thrives on diversity for the benefit of our staff, clients, and community. We welcome and encourage differences among our people and we are an equal opportunity workplace.

Average salary estimate

$32500 / YEARLY (est.)
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$30000K
$35000K

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What You Should Know About Program Manager (P/T): providing food security to transform lives, Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring

At Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring, we're all about transforming lives through food security and social connection! We're on the lookout for a passionate Program Manager (P/T) to join our friendly team. If you care deeply about reducing hunger and enjoy training and coaching small groups, this role is perfect for you! As our Program Manager, you'll work closely with our Chef and Deli Coordinator to plan and prepare delicious daily deli meals while guiding and coaching our volunteer kitchen assistants. Your love for great food will shine as you incorporate food donations and maintain strong relationships within the food rescue community. A typical day might include interacting with local farmers to order fresh produce, collaborating with enthusiastic volunteers, and ensuring that our homebound seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals receive nutritious meals and companionship. We're proud of our mission to nourish our community, and you'll play a key role in that through your ability to lead and inspire others in a cheerful and respectful environment. If you're excited about making a tangible impact in people's lives through food and community service, we can't wait to meet you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Program Manager (P/T): providing food security to transform lives Role at Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring
What are the main responsibilities of a Program Manager (P/T) at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring?

As a Program Manager (P/T) at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring, your core responsibilities include training and coaching our volunteer kitchen assistant teams, planning and preparing daily deli meals, maintaining relationships with food donors, and coordinating logistics for meal delivery.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Program Manager position at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring?

To qualify for the Program Manager position at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring, you must be a high school graduate (or equivalent), possess at least three years of experience in nonprofit work, and be licensed as a food safety manager by Montgomery County, MD within three months of hire.

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What is the work environment like for the Program Manager role at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring?

The work environment at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring is friendly, collaborative, and mission-driven. Our small team values open communication and mutual support, fostering a culture where innovation and respect thrive while working towards the common goal of nourishing our community.

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What type of experience is preferred for the Program Manager (P/T) at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring?

Preferred experience for the Program Manager (P/T) position at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring includes supervision of volunteers, program management, and experience in group meal preparation. Familiarity with food systems or food security will also help you succeed in this role.

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What does a typical day look like for the Program Manager at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring?

A typical day for the Program Manager at Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring starts with checking emails, conferring with the Chef and Deli Coordinator, helping kitchen assistants with meal preparation, and managing food donations and partnerships. You will also ensure meals are delivered and might engage with volunteers and staff throughout the day.

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Common Interview Questions for Program Manager (P/T): providing food security to transform lives
How do you prioritize tasks as a Program Manager?

In my role as a Program Manager, I assess deadlines and impact to prioritize tasks effectively. I ensure that urgent needs, like meal prep for clients, are addressed first, while also delegating tasks to volunteers and team members to ensure smooth operations.

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Can you describe your experience with food safety management?

Absolutely! I have a strong background in food safety management, having worked closely with teams to implement proper protocols, and I’m familiar with Montgomery County’s regulations. I also have my food safety manager certification and continuously stay updated on best practices.

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How would you handle a conflict between volunteers in the kitchen?

I believe in addressing conflicts directly and compassionately. I would listen to each party’s perspective to understand the root of the issue, and facilitate a constructive conversation to help them find common ground, while promoting a spirit of teamwork.

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What motivates you to work in the nonprofit sector, particularly in food security?

I’m deeply motivated by the impact that food security has on a community’s wellbeing. Working in the nonprofit sector allows me to align my personal values with my career, creating a fulfilling experience as I contribute to reducing hunger and nourishing lives.

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How do you approach training and mentoring volunteers?

My approach to training volunteers revolves around creating a supportive and engaging environment. I use hands-on training, clear communication, and encourage questions to help them feel confident in their roles. I believe in fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can contribute.

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How do you ensure meals are prepared and delivered on time?

To ensure timely meal preparation and delivery, I develop a detailed schedule that outlines each task, from food preparation to packaging and distribution. I keep communication open with the team to adapt as needed and monitor progress throughout the day.

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What is your process for sourcing food donations?

I cultivate relationships with local farmers, grocery stores, and food banks to source fresh food donations. Regular communication and follow-ups help maintain a steady flow of ingredients, ensuring we have supplies to meet our meal prep needs.

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Can you discuss a successful project you led in a prior nonprofit position?

Certainly! In a previous role, I organized a community food drive that exceeded our goals by 150%. I successfully engaged local businesses and volunteers, leading to increased food donations, which directly supported our meal programs for those in need.

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How do you manage stress in a busy kitchen environment?

I manage stress by staying organized and focused on tasks, while also keeping the atmosphere positive. I take regular short breaks if needed and encourage team members to do the same, fostering a collaborative approach to maintain morale and efficiency.

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Why do you think community engagement is important in your role?

Community engagement is vital in my role because it builds a network of support and collaboration. Engaging with our community fosters trust, encourages partnerships for food donations, and amplifies awareness of our mission, directly benefiting our clients.

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About Meals On Wheels: Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization that has provided home-delivered meals, professional case management, and other needed items or services to homebound elderly and ...

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DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Part-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 10, 2025

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