Cafeteria Manager

Torrington Public School District; Torrington (CT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life Insurance

Medical - HDHP withBOE contribution

Dental & Vision

15 sick days, 2 personal days

403b contribution

Job summary

Torrington Public Schools is seeking a Cafeteria Manager to oversee daily school kitchen operations and ensure nutritious, safe meals for students. You will supervise staff, coordinate production, manage inventory, and maintain records while upholding district guidelines.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, a food safety certificate, and at least two years in school food service. Ten-month schedule with a $25/hour rate and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (or progress toward GED as required by CT law).
• Minimum of two years' experience in food service operations within school lunch/breakfast programs.
• Completion of a certified food safety training course (e.g., ServSafe) within 90 days of hire.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and lead a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in school or institutional food service preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the school kitchen and cafeteria to ensure timely, high-quality meal service.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district nutrition, safety, and sanitation guidelines.
• Supervise, schedule, and train kitchen staff; monitor performance.
• Plan and monitor daily food production for efficiency and nutrition standards.
• Track inventory, place orders, and manage on-site budgets.

Skills

Team leadership

Supervision

Communication skills

Menu planning

Production scheduling

Food safety knowledge

Record keeping

Education

High school diploma or GED

ServSafe certification or equivalent

Tools

Basic computer software

Job description

REPORTS TO: Food Service Director

JOB GOAL: The Cafeteria Manager plays a vital role in supporting student success through nutritious, safe, and well-coordinated food service operations. This role is responsible for managing daily food service activities at a designated school site, ensuring full compliance with health and safety regulations, and leading a team of food service professionals to deliver exceptional service in a positive, student-centered environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Oversee the daily operations of the school kitchen and cafeteria to ensure timely and high-quality meal service
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district guidelines for nutrition, food safety, and sanitation
• Supervise, schedule, and evaluate kitchen staff; provide training and support for performance improvement
• Plan and monitor daily food production for efficiency, quality, and adherence to nutritional standards
• Track inventory, place supply orders, and manage on-site food service budgets
• Maintain accurate records and reports, including production logs, inventory sheets, and compliance documentation
• Coordinate substitute coverage for staff absences and ensure labor resources are used effectively
• Support food service for school-based events, meetings, and catered functions
• Foster a welcoming and efficient kitchen culture focused on collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and external vendors to address needs and resolve concerns
• Participate in required in-service trainings and professional development workshops
• Uphold district attendance expectations and code of ethics
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Food Service Director or Superintendent

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED (or documented progress toward GED completion as required by Connecticut law)
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in food service operations within the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.
• Completion of a certified food safety training course (e.g., ServSafe); Must be completed within ninety (90) days of hire.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and lead a team in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in school or institutional food service preferred

KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES:

Knowledge of:

• Large-scale food preparation, menu planning, and production scheduling
• USDA regulations and Connecticut food service compliance standards
• Health and sanitation codes, including safe handling, storage, and preparation of food
• Institutional kitchen equipment and inventory control procedures
• Budget management and cost control strategies
• Record-keeping practices and basic computer software for data entry and reporting
• Principles of team supervision, scheduling, and training
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to:

• Lead and manage school food service operations independently and effectively
• Train, mentor, and support food service staff
• Interpret and apply policies, regulations, and procedures accurately
• Prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and respond quickly to operational needs
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times
• Build a culture of respect, efficiency, and continuous improvement within the team

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position involves standing for extended periods, exposure to heat and cold, and lifting up to 40 pounds. Compliance with health and safety protocols, including proper uniform and hygiene standards, is required.

SALARY AND TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Ten-month work year, 188 work days. This position is non-affiliated. Salary = $25.00 an hour.

Benefits:

• Life Insurance
• Medical - HDHP ($4000/$2000 deductible); BOE provides a 45% contribution to participating employees
• Dental & Vision
• 15 sick days, 2 personal days
• 403b contribution

++TRANSFORM TORRINGTON TOGETHER++

At Torrington Public Schools we believe the uniqueness of each individual contributes to the success of all our students. The evolving Torrington community is rich in culture, history and diversity. We know through experience that the exchange of different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds creates a safe and empowering learning environment where students can engage as their authentic selves. Fostering a willingness to understand and appreciate others promotes critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and compassion for all people, preparing them for success in a dynamic global environment.

#transformtorringtontogether

Posted in accordance with the provisions of the Master Agreement between the Torrington Board of Education and Local 1579. The Torrington Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, national/ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation or disability in its programs, activities, and employment practices, as set forth in compliance with the Office for Civil Rights, Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. Any person having inquiries concerning Torrington Public Schools' compliance with Section 504, Title VI or Title IX should contact Kimberly A. Schulte, Director of Human Resources, at Torrington Public Schools, 355 Migeon Avenue, Torrington Connecticut or 860 489-2327, ext. 1636.