Director of Food Service

Kent Consortium; East Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Director of Food Service to lead and enhance food service operations across multiple schools. This hands-on leadership role involves ensuring compliance with USDA and state regulations, managing budgets, and overseeing staff development. The ideal candidate will be passionate about nutrition and equity, capable of creating cost-effective menus, and committed to continuous improvement. If you thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to make a positive impact on student health and well-being, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a team that values excellence in food service and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in food service management or related field required.
• Knowledge of USDA and state regulations essential for compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee food service operations across schools ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Manage staff, budgets, and food safety practices effectively.

Skills

Food Service Management

Nutritional Knowledge

Staff Management

Budgeting

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Menu Planning

Food Safety Regulations

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition or related field

Associate’s degree in related field with experience

Tools

POS Software

Food Service Equipment

Job description

• Location:
  East Grand Rapids Public Schools - Districtwide
  
  
• Date Available:
  June 2025 or earlier
  
  

DIRECTOR OF FOOD SERVICE (1.0 FTE)

General Duties:
The director of food service will oversee and support food service operations across elementary, middle, and high schools within the East Grand Rapids Public School District. This is a hands-on leadership role which requires strict adherence to regulations and guidelines set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), and district-specific K-12 meal service policies. The director will commit to actively supporting daily operations at all levels and will invest approximately 50% of their time in direct support of food production and service. The director is responsible for all aspects of the food service program including maintaining best practices in food safety, meal planning, personnel training, purchasing and inventory management, facility planning, budgeting, state and federal reporting, vending and banquet operations, POS software maintenance, and other related duties. Additionally, the director will provide strategic leadership in administering and evaluating the district’s food service program, overseeing staff management and development, ensuring regulatory compliance while advancing nutritional well-being, creating operational efficiencies, and ensuring meaningful collaboration with school and community stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent educational experience in food and nutrition, food service management, dietetics, family and consumer sciences, nutrition education, culinary arts, business, or related field; or an Associate’s degree or equivalent educational experience in one of the related fields along with at least 2 years of relevant school nutrition programs experience.
• Ability to complete at least 12 hours of continuing USDA education annually.
• Knowledge of federal and state law, as well as MDE rules and regulations relating to school food service.
• Ability to lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate food service staff to ensure a healthy and successful environment.
• Ability to plan and implement cost-effective monthly menus for all buildings which comply with USDA regulations.
• Willingness and commitment to include equity, social justice, and inclusion in all practices.
• Ability to prepare and administer the operational budget and to complete all required state and federal reporting.
• Willingness to apply for grants, as well as federal and state subsidies to support the district food service program.
• Willingness to inspect school kitchen facilities to ensure that standard operating procedures are being followed.
• Ability to work cooperatively with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and vendors.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills (written, verbal, and listening skills).
• Experience in a school food service environment (preferred).
• Ability to be enthusiastic, friendly, flexible, and a team player who is committed to continuous improvement.
• Ability to learn essential software, vending, and district systems and consistently apply District policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of food service preparation, sanitation, and food service equipment (3-5 years experience preferred).
• Ability to take inventory, order supplies, and keep accurate records of food production, cash receipts, and other data.
• Willingness and ability to obtain ServSafe Manager Certification and other essential certifications.
• Self-motivation and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to substitute for absent kitchen personnel and to execute all aspects of the food service program as needed.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and repeatedly lift, bend, squat, climb, and reach.
• Excellent attendance record with a commitment to completing all duties as assigned.

Location: East Grand Rapids Public Schools
Start Date: June 2025 or earlier as mutually agreed
Compensation: 260 day contract with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
To Apply: Interested applicants should apply at: http://www.applitrack.com/kent/onlineapp
Deadline: Until filled.