Food Security & Nutritional Programs Coordinator

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 54,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a full-time Program Coordinator for Campus Recreation to lead Food Pantry and Instructional Kitchen initiatives. The role oversees staff, volunteers, and program staff, ensuring program quality and safety across campus nutrition offerings.

You will collaborate with campus partners, manage budgets, and develop wellness programming and community outreach to expand access to nutritious food and education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and two years of education, training, or work experience in food pantry/nutrition program management.
• Experience supervising college students and volunteers.
• Experience working with students including those with vision, hearing, and physical disabilities.
• Valid IL driver’s license is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Hire, train, supervise and evaluate all staff including hourly program leads, kitchen monitors and instructors, interns, and volunteers.
• Determine staffing needs and hire qualified candidates based on education, certifications, experience, and abilities.
• Develop and maintain the online storefront and appointment system for the Food Pantry program.
• Organize, plan, conduct and evaluate Food Security and Nutritional programs and increase participation.
• Coordinate marketing and promotion efforts for food security and nutrition programs.

Skills

Staff supervision

Staff hiring

Staff training

Program management

Budget oversight

Food pantry operations

Community partnerships

Wellness programming

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Food Science and Human Nutrition, Community Health, Public Health or related field

Tools

Accounting software

Query tools

Job description

Department of Campus Recreation

Under the guidance of the Executive Director, responsible for the development and management of the Food Pantry and overall programmatic offerings in the Instructional Kitchen and Nutrition programs. Supervises all part-time and volunteer Food Pantry, Instructional Kitchen and nutritional programs staff.

Programmatic Responsibilities (60%)

• Hire, train, supervise and evaluate all staff including Grad Hourly Program Leads, kitchen monitors and cooking instructors, interns, and volunteers.
• Determine staffing needs and hire qualified candidates based upon education, certifications, experience, skills, and ability to contribute to the diverse needs of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Campus Recreation.
• Set working schedule for all staff.
• Monitor compliance with required staff certifications.
• Prioritize tasks and assign/delegate responsibilities to part-time employees as it relates to food security operations, services, and programs.
• Evaluate personnel via random shift audits and observations from professional and leadership staff.
• Oversee student infraction and discipline process.
• Establish financial partnerships and community programs.
• Organize, plan, conduct and evaluate Food Security and Nutritional programs; make program updates based on current research; conduct quality improvement projects and needs assessment of areas; increase participation of campus community.
• Schedule and coordinate department led cooking classes and nutritional programs.
• Coordinate custom cooking classes and nutritional programs.
• Develop and maintain the online storefront and appointment system for the Food Pantry program.
• Coordinate the Food Pantry open hours.
• Coordinate the operation of various campus Food Lockers.
• Establish financial targets.
• Research and analyze trends in collegiate food security programs. Provide input on the fiscal needs of the program including budget recommendations, revenue projects and fee rates. Provide programmatic recommendations and proposals utilizing such information.
• Design/Deliver cooking lessons, teach cooking techniques and food safety, supervise hands‑on activities, assess student progress, coordinate presentation of skills and cooking competitions, and maintain a safe, sanitary kitchen environment.
• In conjunction with the Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness Programs, develop wellness and nutritional programming and resource fairs for the campus community.
• Develop marketing and promotion efforts focused on food security and nutritional programs, packages, and events; In conjunction with the marketing department implement these efforts which may include print information, website design and social media outreach.
• Research and make purchase recommendations for all instructional kitchen equipment.
• Organize, maintain, and update the equipment in the instructional kitchen.
• Offer nutritional programs in collaboration with the Basic Needs Coordinator and campus partners in the Office of the Dean of Students, McKinley Health Center, Housing and Dining, and the College of ACES, etc.
• Conduct annual review of existing operations and other related areas’ policies. Make determinations for adjustment based on current risk management policies and procedures, incorporating industry trends and University and departmental expectations.
• Conduct quality improvement projects.

Departmental & Administrative (40%)

• Maintain records of certifications and provide food security training for student staff and volunteers.
• Communicate regularly regarding status of certification and if employee will need to seek recertification prior to expiration.
• Develop and locate food security related resources and training materials.
• Collaborate with department, campus and community partners on education and programming initiatives that promote healthy physical activity, exercise, and nutrition. Example: McKinley Health Education, etc.
• Work cooperatively with other Campus Recreation program areas when needed, including the development of collaborative programming. Example: Fitness Programs, etc.
• Work collaboratively with campus units and the general community services and resources.
• Participate as a member of the Campus Recreation professional staff in the development and implementation of policies and procedures.
• Manage the program responsibilities within the budget constraints established by Campus Recreation (Business Office & Director of Campus Recreation).
• Evaluate events and ensure compliance with university standards related to facility usage, risk management, and vendor agreements.
• Identify potential risks associated with events and maintain standards to ensure a safe environment for patrons.
• Track and compile information and data in conjunction with monthly, mid-year and yearly reports. Utilize information to develop policies, procedures, and strategic goals for fitness programs for Campus Recreation.
• Participate in the development of programs, departmental objectives, and long‑range planning by performing research, providing recommendations, and implementing plans as appropriate.
• Enforce and maintain Campus Recreation policies and procedures as they pertain to usage of facilities on campus.
• Obtain and maintain appropriate certifications.
• Serve on Division and/or University committees as assigned.
• Design and implement special projects that support the overall mission of Campus Recreation.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

In performing the functions of this position, the employee may be subjected to various physical demands including ability to move, transfer and/or transport packaged items frequently weighing twenty (25) pounds, and twisting, pushing and pulling movements.

Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations

There may be occasional travel for conferences, workshops, and training. This position requires flexibility to a variable work schedule, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Operation of department van/vehicles to pick up and/or deliver Food Pantry and other nutritional items requires a valid U.S. driver’s license.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Food Science and Human Nutrition, Community Health, Public Health or a related field.
• A total of two (2) years (24 months) in education, training and/or work experience in food pantry and/or nutritional program management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comprehensive and detailed knowledge of Food Security and Nutritional Programs.
• Experience operating a Food Pantry or offering nutritional programs.
• Experience supervising college aged students and volunteers.
• Experience working with students including those with vision, hearing, and physical disabilities.
• Valid IL driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Effective communication skills and an ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, faculty, staff, students, and community patrons.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project review deadlines.
• Strong commitment to developing a comprehensive understanding of the needs of various student populations and user groups.
• Ability to communicate with a diverse population of staff, students, external constituents, and community partners.
• Ability to work independently and exercise judgment to analyze and investigate a variety of questions or problems.
• Ability to analyze and develop guidelines, procedures, and systems.
• Ability to understand and apply principles and methods for training and instruction for individuals and groups.
• Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, and coordination of people and resources.
• Skill in analyzing information and evaluating results.
• Skill in scheduling events, programs, and activities.
• Ability to develop goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish work.
• Ability to effectively plan, delegate, and supervise the work of others.
• Ability to utilize various computer software packages, such as accounting software, query, etc.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5002 - Program Coordinator position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/25/2026. The budgeted salary range for this position is $54,000 to $58,000. This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.

Application Deadline

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on October 7, 2026. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Gina Moton at [e-mail]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

University Background

At the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first‑generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far‑reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well‑being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Benefits

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify.

Accommodations

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [e-mail].

Requisition ID

1038145

Job Category

Education & Student Services

Apply at

https://jobs.illinois.edu