What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Dietary Manager position at Powerlink?
Certified Dietary Manager - USDA Educational Food Service Serving the Deaf Community
About the Position
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Certified Dietary Manager to lead our USDA-compliant food service program at our educational institution (Flint area) serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students. This role combines nutrition expertise, regulatory compliance, and cultural competency to ensure our students receive nutritious, appealing meals that support their educational success and wellbeing.
Key Responsibilities
The Certified Dietary Manager will plan, prepare, and oversee nutritionally balanced meals that meet USDA guidelines for educational food service programs. You'll manage menu development, food procurement, inventory control, and kitchen staff supervision while maintaining strict compliance with federal nutrition standards and food safety regulations. A critical aspect of this role involves collaborating with educators, parents, and support staff to accommodate dietary restrictions, food allergies, and cultural preferences within our deaf community.
You'll be responsible for maintaining accurate records for USDA meal reimbursement programs, managing budgets effectively, and ensuring all food service operations meet local health department requirements. Training and supervising kitchen staff, implementing food safety protocols, and creating an inclusive environment where communication is accessible to all team members and students are essential functions of this position.
Required Qualifications
- Certified Dietary Manager (CDM, CFPP) credential required
- Experience with USDA Child Nutrition Programs and meal pattern requirements
- Knowledge of food safety, HACCP principles, and sanitation standards
- Proven experience in menu planning, food production, and kitchen management
- Ability to manage budgets and maintain accurate financial records
- Strong leadership and staff supervision skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals
- American Sign Language (ASL) proficiency or willingness to learn
- Understanding of Deaf culture and communication best practices
- Previous experience in educational food service settings
- Familiarity with assistive technology and visual communication methods
Essential Skills
Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to creating a welcoming environment for students with diverse communication needs. You should be comfortable using visual communication aids, written communication, and adaptive strategies to ensure effective interaction with students and staff who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
To Apply
Submit your resume, CDM certification, and cover letter describing your experience with nutrition management and your interest in serving the deaf community.
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.