Food Security Specialist

Location: New Westminster

Job Summary:

Are you passionate about making nutritious food accessible, youth empowerment, and building inclusive communities? Aunt Leah’s Place is seeking a Food Security Specialist to lead our food programming for youth transitioning from foster care and young mothers at risk of homelessness. Based at our vibrant Resource Centre in New Westminster, you’ll be the heart of our kitchen—planning and preparing healthy meals, coordinating weekly grocery distribution, and managing emergency food supports.
This isn’t just a back-of-house role — we’re looking for someone who enjoys connecting with people, creating a welcoming space, and using food as a way to build trust and community! You’ll work directly with participants, staff, and volunteers in a collaborative, trauma-informed environment where relationships matter as much as recipes.
In this dynamic, hands-on role, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of our food security initiatives, maintain food safety standards, and ensure our programs are nourishing, empowering, and aligned with Aunt Leah’s values.

Reports To:

Resource Center & Pre-Employment Lifeskills Program Coordinator
Compensation:  $ 24.44 /hr.

Qualifications:

Minimum 2 years of relevant experience working in a kitchen environment preparing and cooking meals
A valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and clean driver’s abstract
Requirements:
Satisfactory Criminal Record Check (including vulnerable persons) and Local Police Information Check
Valid First Aid and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certification
Valid Food Safe Certification
Assets:
Access to a vehicle with the ability to acquire proof of $5 million business liability insurance
Strong organizational and time-management skills; ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment

Experience with menu planning and food budgeting; skilled in creating nutritious, cost-effective meal plans that consider dietary restrictions and cultural preferences
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively; takes initiative while contributing effectively in team settings
Demonstrates cultural competency; understands and applies trauma-informed care principles with awareness of the impact of inter-generational trauma and colonial policies on youth
Experience in community engagement and partnership development; effectively builds and maintains strategic relationships with community members, organizations, and donors to support program goals and resource sharing
Key

Duties and Responsibilities:

Essential Functions:

Program Operations:
Oversee daily operations of food security initiatives, including the emergency food cupboard and weekly grocery distribution
Plan, prepare, and distribute fresh, nutritious weekly meals in accordance with food safety standards
Create an inclusive, welcoming environment for guests and program participants
Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers assisting in kitchen and food programming

Manage food program budget, including tracking expenditures and ensuring cost-effective purchases
Shop for food and supplies as required, maintaining fiscal responsibility
Monitor and report on budget use and food inventory
Health & Safety:
Ensure the kitchen and food storage areas are clean, organized, and meet all safety and sanitation standards
Participate in annual review of Aunt Leah’s Health and Safety Policies and Procedures
Participate in emergency drills in the office as required

Professional Development:
Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities
Meet regularly with the Resource Center and Pre-Employment Lifeskills Coordinator to prioritize workload and receive feedback

Communication:
Maintain accurate and timely records related to program outcomes, attendance, and inventory
Communicate with internal teams to align food security efforts with broader organizational goals
Represent Aunt Leah’s in meetings with external partners and community stakeholders

Confidentiality:
Maintain confidentiality of participant information in accordance with agency policy and applicable privacy laws

Physical Demands   This position requires safely lifting and/or carrying up to 50 lbs
Regular movement and…