Culinary Manager

Job Title:

SR1 Culinary and Food Services Specialist (Full-Time & Part-Time)

Location:

Canton, Mississippi (Central MS)

Salary Range:

$40,000 – $74,000 (Commensurate with experience)

About SR1:

SR1 (Scientific Research) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of all people through education, health, and technology. We operate Mississippi’s first STEM-focused public charter school, SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy (SR1CPSA), and lead innovative community initiatives through SR1Tech and SR1Ag. Our culinary and agriculture programs work hand-in-hand to nourish children and families through fresh, seasonal meals, hands-on food education, and a “food as medicine” approach rooted in culturally and contextually relevant practices.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and purpose-driven Culinary and Food Services Specialist to lead daily meal preparation and nutritional programming at SR1 CPSA. This unique role is ideal for an early-career chef, recent culinary graduate, or intern ready to make a meaningful impact. You’ll craft from-scratch meals that reflect the rich flavors of Southern cuisine and are built on fresh, local ingredients—including produce grown by our own students.

Beyond the kitchen, you’ll host cooking demonstrations, collaborate with our agriculture team, and help develop menus and activities that teach children and families how to eat well. This is a rare opportunity to cook, teach, and lead in a supportive environment that values innovation and community wellness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare nutritious, scratch-made meals for K–5 students, emphasizing Southern cuisine and seasonal, farm-to-school ingredients
• Collaborate with SR1Ag to integrate school-grown produce into daily meals
• Lead and support cooking demonstrations, nutrition workshops, and after-school events for students, families, and staff
• Develop rotating menus that align with USDA nutrition guidelines and student preferences
• Uphold the highest standards of food safety and cleanliness; obtain or maintain SERVSafe certification
• Partner with staff on nutrition education and “food as medicine” initiatives
• Mentor student interns or volunteers with an interest in culinary or agricultural careers
• Participate in special event catering, school celebrations, and summer programs
• Help shape long-term plans for SR1’s future agriculture and food facility

Qualifications:

• Culinary degree or current enrollment preferred, but not required
• Willingness to obtain SERVSafe certification (required)
• Passion for cooking, learning, and creating culturally relevant meals
• Interest in community food access, child nutrition, or public health
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Experience working with children or in educational settings is a plus
• Creativity, flexibility, and enthusiasm for trying new things in the kitchen

Why SR1?

At SR1, we serve all people and promote culturally and contextually grounded approaches to tackle nutrition insecurity, prevent and control diet-related diseases, and empower future generations through food. We offer future opportunities for profit-sharing, entrepreneurship, and leadership in a growing farm-to-school and wellness ecosystem.

Apply Now:

Send your resume and a brief cover letter to info@sr1tech.org. Culinary portfolios, sample menus, or project photos are welcome but optional.

Learn More:

SR1CPSA.org | SR1Tech.org | SR1Ag.org