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Food Consulting Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Serves as a consultant to medical and nursing staff. Assesses/analyzes data from medical records (e.g., medical diagnoses, medical/nutrition history, food intake records, anthropometric data ...

Lumper Sunday - Thursday

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America's food distribution system * Safe ... A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with ...

Meat Cutter/Butcher

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America's food distribution system * Safe ... A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with ...

Coord, Credit

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$22/hr

Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America's food distribution system * Safe ... A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with ...

Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America's food distribution system * Safe ... A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with ...

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Food Consulting information

What is food consulting?

Food consulting is a professional service that provides expertise and guidance to businesses in the food industry, such as restaurants, food manufacturers, and startups. Food consultants help with various aspects, including menu development, food safety, operations, product innovation, and compliance with regulations. They work to improve business performance, streamline processes, and ensure products meet market and legal standards. By leveraging industry knowledge, food consultants help clients achieve their goals and adapt to changing consumer preferences.

What are food consulting jobs?

Food consulting jobs include positions that focus on the development and improvement of food and beverage services, usually at a restaurant or retail location. In this role, you may help improve the daily operations of sales locations, evaluate the nutrition of menu items or packaged products, and otherwise help to ensure the smooth and reliable delivery of products throughout the year. Notably, this job heavily emphasizes the service aspect of food service, with tasks ranging from food safety inspections to environmental safety regulator. This job should not be confused with recipe development or teaching roles, which usually have different job titles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food consultant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Consultant, you need a solid background in food science, nutrition, and culinary arts, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with food safety regulations, menu development software, and industry standards such as HACCP is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities help consultants tailor solutions and communicate effectively with clients. These skills are essential for delivering expert advice, ensuring compliance, and enhancing food quality and business profitability.

What are typical challenges faced by professionals in food consulting, and how can they be addressed?

In Food Consulting, professionals often encounter challenges such as staying current with evolving food safety regulations, adapting to diverse client needs, and effectively communicating technical information to non-specialists. Addressing these requires continuous education, strong organizational skills, and the ability to tailor recommendations to each client's unique goals. Building collaborative relationships with client teams and maintaining clear, regular communication are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Food Consulting vs Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFood ConsultingFood Safety Specialist
CredentialsRelevant degrees, certifications like ServSafe, industry experienceCertifications such as ServSafe, HACCP, and food safety training
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, client sites, food production facilitiesFood manufacturing plants, restaurants, regulatory agencies
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, consulting agencies, restaurantsFood production, retail, regulatory bodies
Common Search & ComparisonFood ConsultingFood Safety Specialist

Food Consulting involves advising food businesses on product development, menu design, and operational improvements, often working across multiple clients. Food Safety Specialists focus on ensuring compliance with safety standards, conducting inspections, and implementing safety protocols within specific facilities. While both roles require food safety knowledge and certifications, Food Consulting emphasizes strategic advice and industry insights, whereas Food Safety Specialists concentrate on regulatory compliance and safety procedures.

How do you become a food consultant?

To become a food consultant, individuals typically gain experience in the food industry through roles such as chefs, food scientists, or restaurant managers. They often develop expertise in areas like food safety, menu development, or nutrition, and may pursue relevant certifications or degrees to enhance credibility and skills in consulting projects.

How much do food consulting professionals make?

Food consulting professionals typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scope of projects. Senior consultants or those with specialized skills may earn higher salaries, especially if working with large clients or in high-demand markets.

What do food consultants do?

Food consultants advise clients on food safety, menu development, product quality, and compliance with regulations. They often analyze food processes, recommend improvements, and may assist with certifications or testing, utilizing industry knowledge and technical skills.

What are popular job titles related to Food Consulting jobs in Tennessee?

For Food Consulting jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Consulting jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Consulting jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Food Consulting job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

YMCA Food & Fun - LFPP Planning Consultant - Contract

YMCA

Chattanooga, TN

$40/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 27 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,991 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

579th of 783 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

The LFPP (Local Food Promotion Program) Planning Consultant will lead planning and research efforts for the YMCA's J.A. Henry Food & Fun Mobile Market program. The Consultant is responsible for delivering measurable outcomes aligned with USDA LFPP grant objectives, including development of a Business and Sustainability Plan, advising on how to strengthen regional food systems, and improving producer & partner viability.

This contract position is grant funded through the USDA LFPP for a 12 month period. This role is office based in Chattanooga, TN and requires regular travel within the area.

GRANT OBJECTIVES:

• Develop a comprehensive Business and Sustainability Plan based on a regional market assessment.

• Coordinate with food system partners to improve producer-to-consumer market access.

• Increase producer and partner viability through training, technical assistance, and operational improvements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conduct research, surveys, and data analysis

• Facilitate stakeholder meetings and partnerships

• Develop planning documents and reports

• Coordinate training and technical assistance

• Track and report grant performance metrics

• Compliance with all YMCA & USDA guidelines

• Other duties pertaining to project as assigned

KEY MEASURABLE DELIVERABLES:

• 1 completed market assessment and supply chain analysis

• At least 3 community focus groups and 150+ survey responses

• 1 finalized Business and Sustainability Plan

• 4 stakeholder meetings and documented partnerships

• Food system map with identified barriers and opportunities

• Summary report and dissemination strategy

• At least 4 producer training workshops conducted

• Toolkit distributed to 20+ producers

• Pre- and post-evaluation data collected and analyzed

EXPECTED OUTCOMES:

• Increased access to fresh, local food for approximately 4,978 residents

• Improved market access for 300+ Mobile Market shoppers (primarily SNAP users)

• Establishment of at least 4 formalized producer partnerships

• Expanded regional food system coordination and efficiency

• Improved producer revenue, sales, and cost savings

• Enhanced food safety knowledge and practices among stakeholders

• Creation of a scalable, sustainable food distribution model for YMCA

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field required; master’s preferred

• Experience in food systems, research, or community planning

• Strong analytical and communication skills

• Experience with stakeholder engagement

• Ability to manage deliverables and timelines independently

• Reliable transportation to and from office and community sites required

A BETTER US STARTS WITH U!
Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts people’s lives. We are seeking to add new members to our team who are motivated and committed to serving others. Whether you are experienced or not, we will provide the resources and training needed for you to grow and succeed. If you want more than just a job – if you’re looking to discover a sense of purpose and opportunities to contribute to the greater good – then the Y is the place for you. Join us!


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