at Inner-city Muslim Action Network in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Description
OVERVIEW:
The Food Systems & Operations Coordinator plays a key role in advancing IMAN’s holistic food ecosystems vision through leadership of the Food & Wellness Center (FWC) and support of the Go Green Community Fresh Market. This position is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of IMAN’s shopper-style pantry located at 63rd and Racine in the heart of Englewood, ensuring a welcoming and dignified experience for all clients, staff, and volunteers. The Coordinator ensures that the Food & Wellness Center operates in full compliance with health codes and regulatory standards and serves as the primary liaison to the Greater Chicago Food Depository and other food ecosystem partners. In addition to overseeing the FWC, the role provides essential administrative, bookkeeping, and storekeeping support to the Go Green Community Fresh Market, with related duties assigned and scheduled by the Fresh Market General Manager.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Food & Wellness Center (FWC):
- Manage Daily Distribution: Oversee daily food distribution to ensure smooth operations in alignment with IMAN and Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) policies. Assist clients throughout their shopping experience, register new participants, explain pantry procedures, and direct individuals to additional resources as needed. Provide hands-on support including bagging and loading items into vehicles.
- Maintain Facility Standards: Ensure the Food & Wellness Center is clean, well-organized, and consistently meets all health, safety, and code compliance standards.
- Oversee Inventory Management: Place and manage food and supply orders with GCFD to maximize service delivery and minimize waste. Receive, stock, and organize deliveries from partner organizations and grocery stores using best food safety and storage practices. Pick up external donations as required.
- Volunteer Coordination: Recruit, schedule, and manage volunteers for stocking and distribution shifts. Foster a warm, inclusive, and community-centered environment for all team members and volunteers.
- Cross-Department Collaboration: Act as the primary liaison between the Food & Wellness Center and other IMAN departments. Work closely with the Health Center to connect clients with complementary services and wellness resources.
- Community Partnership Management: Maintain regular communication with the Greater Chicago Food Depository and other partner organizations. Attend external meetings, visit peer agencies, and participate in learning exchanges to strengthen service delivery.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Go Green Community Fresh Market (FM):
- Utilize Fresh Market’s IT Retail software to generate and share a monthly financial snapshot with supervisors, providing insight into market performance and sustainability.
- Conduct quarterly inventory checks and ensure accurate stock management.
- Maintain accounting records using provided software, ensuring financial accuracy and compliance.
- Receive grocery shipments, stocking shelves, and maintaining inventory organization.
- Perform storekeeper duties during assigned shifts.
- Dedicate 20 hours per week to Fresh Market responsibilities as assigned by the Fresh Market General Manager, ensuring alignment with operational needs and priorities.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 2–3 years of experience in community food access, food pantry operations, retail, nonprofit programs, or related fields.
- Commitment to IMAN’s mission and values, with a passion for food justice, community health, and equity.
- Experience working with diverse and multicultural populations.
- Spanish language proficiency.
- Proficiency with IT Retail, QuickBooks, or similar accounting and inventory management software, or willingness to learn
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Community Development, Nutrition, Social Services, or a related field preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
- Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods
- Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 80 lbs
- Comfortable with physical tasks such as bending, lifting, and stocking shelves
- Ability to work collaboratively and in close proximity with others in a team environment
