Assistant Food Service Manager

Assistant Food Service Manager - District

SUMMARY: Under general direction, assists the Food Service Manager in the administration, coordination, and oversight of district-wide school nutrition operations, including compliance monitoring, operational support, and administrative management of the Food Service Program. Reports to the Food Service Manager.

DUTIES AND PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Operational Leadership & Program Oversight

• Oversee daily Food Service operations through regular visits to district schools, providing guidance and support to staff while ensuring efficient service, proper meal preparation, high food quality, regulatory compliance, and positive customer service.
• Conduct operational reviews of school kitchens and cafeterias to monitor compliance with USDA regulations, Health Department requirements, district policies, standard operating procedures, food safety and sanitation standards, and program quality expectations.
• Travel throughout the district to provide operational support, assist with problem-solving, monitor program performance, and provide temporary coverage during staff absences, vacancies, special events, or other operational needs.
• Demonstrate initiative and leadership by identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and implementing strategies that enhance operational efficiency, customer service, and overall program success.

Menu Planning, Purchasing & Financial Management

• Assist in the development of menu offerings by researching and recommending menu items, creating and testing standardized recipes, analyzing food costs, and submitting recommendations to the Food Service Manager for review and approval.
• Responsible for monitoring and assisting with the ordering of all food and non-food supplies for the department.
• Monitor food and supply costs, evaluate purchasing practices, and assist in implementing cost-control measures that support the financial goals of the School Nutrition Program.

Program Administration & Compliance

• Use computer systems and school nutrition software daily to efficiently manage program operations, including menu planning, production documentation, financial tracking, reporting, and communication, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Assist with the administration of free and reduced-price meal applications, including timely eligibility determinations, parent/guardian notifications, maintenance of approved information-sharing statuses, and strict adherence to confidentiality requirements.
• Effectively communicate Food Service Program information to parents and guardians and conduct appropriate follow-up regarding unpaid meal account balances.
• Perform and coordinate administrative functions for the department, including purchase order management, invoice processing, recordkeeping, reporting, and other office operations.

Staff Development & Support

• Participate in employee interviews, onboarding, performance evaluations, and staff development activities. Provide feedback and recommendations to the Food Service Manager regarding personnel matters.
• Coordinate and executive employee training and cross-training to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant Food Service operations across all school locations.

Special Events & Professional Development

• Assist in planning, scheduling, ordering, and staffing for special catering events through the Food Service Department.
• Attend seminars, workshops, and professional development opportunities outside the district as needed or assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 18 years of age and able to lift at least 50 lbs.
• Minimum 2 years institution food preparation and service or equivalent experience.
• Level 2 Food Safety Certificate and Serv Safe Certification.
• An Associate or Bachelor degree in a related field is desirable; equivalent experience will also be considered.
• Ability to operate institutional food preparation equipment.
• Must maintain positive relationships with staff, administrators, students, and parents.
• Must possess a valid Ohio driver''s license.
• Must pass criminal background check.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Effective Date: 2026/2027 School Year
• Type of Contract: One-year probationary
• Hours of Work: 6hrs/day / 193 day contract
• Salary and Benefits: In accordance with Board approved Exempt salary schedule.