School Kitchen Manager: Lead Service & Safety

SFE - Southwest Foodservice Excellence; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge School-District Office is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead daily operations in a school cafeteria, supervising staff, ensuring food safety, and delivering high-quality service to hundreds of students.

The role requires ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain) and strong leadership, organization, and communication skills to manage fast-paced kitchen environments and maintain compliance with school and health standards.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent.
• ServSafe certification required (or willing to obtain prior to start).
• Food service experience required; school nutrition experience preferred.
• Prior supervisory experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily food production and service to meet quality, safety, and portion standards.
• Train and supervise kitchen staff on recipes, equipment safety, and sanitation.
• Prepare daily and weekly paperwork, reports, and schedules.
• Monitor inventory and ensure proper ordering, receiving, and storage of supplies.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and report any repair needs.
• Enforce compliance with HACCP, health department regulations, and ServSafe standards.
• Manage labor and ensure schedules align with staffing and budget needs.
• Uphold company policies and administer fair, consistent performance evaluations.
• Ensure accurate temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and food safety documentation.
• Follow proper cash handling and reconciliation procedures.
• Act as the on-site leader responsible for smooth, safe, and efficient kitchen operations.
• Submit reports and complete tasks on time as assigned.
• Perform other duties as needed to support the school and food service program.

Skills

Communication

Time management

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

POS systems

Online reporting

Job description

Oak Ridge School-District Office is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead daily operations in a school cafeteria, supervising staff, ensuring food safety, and delivering high-quality service to hundreds of students.

The role requires ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain) and strong leadership, organization, and communication skills to manage fast-paced kitchen environments and maintain compliance with school and health standards.