Food Service Director

Position Summary

The School Food Service Director oversees all district or school nutrition operations, ensuring students recieve safe, nutritious, and appealing meals in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. THis position manages food service staff, budgets, menu planning procurement, and program administration while promoting healthy eating and efficient operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Management

• Direct and supervise daily food service operations for a rural K-12 school system (one primary site).
• Ensure compliance with USDA school nutrition program requiremnts and health regulations.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures for food preparation, sanitation, and safety.

Menu, Planning, and Nutrition

• Plan nutritious, cost-effective menus that meet dietary guidelines.
• Accommodate special dietary needs and food allergies.
• Analyze nutritional content and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Promote nutrition education and healthy food choices.

Budget and Financial Oversight

• Prepare and manage departmental budgets.
• Monitor food, labor, and supply costs.
• Approve purchases and oversee inventory control.
• Prepare financial reports and maintain accurate records.
• Maximize program reimbursement opportunities.

Staff Supervision

• Hire, train, schedule, and evaluate food service employees.
• Provide leadership and professional development opportunities.
• Ensure proper staffing levels and operational effeciency.
• Address employee performance and disciplinary matters.

Procurment and Inventory

• Order food, supplies, and equipment.
• Negotiate with vendors and manage contracts.
• Maintain inventory systems and reduce waste.
• Ensure equipment maintenance and replacement planning.

Compliance and Safety

• Maintain sanitation and food safety standards.
• Prepare for health inspections and audits.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP procedures and OSHA regulations.
• Maintain required records for state and federal reporting.

Community and Student Engagement

• Respond to parent, student, and staff concerns.
• Promote participation in school meal programs.
• Collaborate with school administrators and wellness committees.
• Support special events and catering functions for the school as needed.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Food Service Management, Dietetics, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or other related field prefered.

Experience

• 3-5 years of food service management experience preferred.
• Experience in school nutrition programs strongly preferred.

Certifications

• ServSafe Certification or equivelent food safety certification required or willingness to get this summer.
• School Nutrition Association certification prefered.
• State-required child nutrition certification as applicable.

Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities

• Knowledge of USDA school meal regulations
• Strong leadership and organization skills
• Budgeting and financial management abilities
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Knowledge of nutrition and food safety standards
• Ability to use food service management software and Microsoft Office
• Ability to manage multiple locations and priorities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in kitchen and office environments
• Exposure to heat, cold, and commerical kitchen equipment

Work Environment

• Cooking and cleaning
• Interacting with students, staff, and parents
• School cafeterias and administrative offices
• May require early mornings, occasional evenings, or special events
• School-year schedule with some summer program responsibilities

Pay: $15.55 - $21.03 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $21