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Food Program Director Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

BENEFITS: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees ... food and labor Direct and oversee operations related to production, distribution and food service ...

Food Service Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

BENEFITS: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees ... food and labor • Direct and oversee operations related to production, distribution and food ...

Food Service Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

BENEFITS: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees ... food and labor • Direct and oversee operations related to production, distribution and food ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Program Director information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.4K

$88.6K

$155.2K

How much do food program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food program director in Washington, DC is $88,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $104,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a food program director?

To become a food program director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in nutrition, public health, or a related field, along with several years of experience managing food service or community programs. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential, and some roles may require certification such as ServSafe or a similar credential.

What is the difference between Food Program Director vs Food Service Manager?

AspectFood Program DirectorFood Service Manager
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., ServSafe, dietetics credentials), experience in program managementFood safety certifications, experience in food service operations
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, government agencies, large institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustryPublic and nonprofit sectors, community programsPrivate food service establishments, hospitality industry

The Food Program Director focuses on overseeing food programs, ensuring compliance, and managing budgets in organizational settings. In contrast, the Food Service Manager handles daily operations, staff supervision, and customer service in food service environments. Both roles require food safety knowledge but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Food Program Director and how can they be addressed?

Food Program Directors often navigate challenges such as managing tight budgets, ensuring compliance with nutrition guidelines, and coordinating with diverse stakeholders like kitchen staff, suppliers, and regulatory agencies. Balancing cost-effectiveness with high-quality, nutritious meal offerings requires strong organizational and negotiation skills. Building clear communication channels, investing in staff training, and staying up to date with changing regulations can help address these issues and ensure a successful food program.

What does a Food Program Director do?

A Food Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of food service programs, often within schools, community organizations, or healthcare settings. They are responsible for ensuring that meals meet nutritional standards, comply with regulations, and stay within budget. Their duties also include supervising staff, managing vendors or suppliers, developing menus, and evaluating program effectiveness. Food Program Directors play a key role in promoting food safety and ensuring participants receive healthy meals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Program Director?

To thrive as a Food Program Director, you need expertise in nutrition, food safety regulations, program management, and a relevant degree such as nutrition, dietetics, or public health. Familiarity with menu planning software, inventory management systems, and compliance certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and communication abilities help in managing staff and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies ensure that food programs are safe, efficient, and meet community nutrition needs while complying with regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Program jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Food Program jobs in Washington, DC are:

Director, Chemical & Food Safety Programs

FMI

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Primary Purpose: Develop and implement food and product safety programs for FMI members; provide technical expertise for FMI members; direct food protection activities for the FMI membership; interact with federal, state and local regulatory officials; and represent FMI and its members with external constituents. Essential Job Functions: Develop and deliver food safety and product safety programs for product supplier members, ensuring content is relevant, timely, and aligned with FMI's strategic objectives. Support the Product Supplier Scientific Affairs Committee, including recruitment of new members; coordinating and planning of committee events; facilitating conference calls/webinars as needed; conducting member outreach, ensuring timely follow-up on action items.

Direct FMI's activities on chemical contaminants with a focus on providing support for science-based policies to regulate approved and unexpected contaminants. Serve as a technical expert for FMI internal and external stakeholders on chemical contaminants in food. Support chemical safety initiatives through research, coordination, and engagement with industry stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and subject matter experts.

Assist in the development and implementation of programs, resources, and communications related to chemical safety and regulatory compliance. Monitor emerging chemical safety trends, regulations, and industry developments to help inform organizational priorities and member guidance. Evaluate member needs and prioritize initiatives to ensure critical food safety objectives and emerging risks are effectively addressed.

Research and evaluate information, including published data, regulations, and policies to develop concise summaries and provide relevant information and resources to members. Collaborate with FMI's Public Policy team to provide technical support and to assist in advocating for science-based policies. Proactively identify emerging food safety issues, regulatory developments, and news, and coordinate outreach and resource development to support member preparedness and response.

Partner and collaborate with regulatory officials, academia, contractors and other external stakeholders to support members, and enhance food safety and public health programs. Coordinate and conduct member visits to review and discuss food and product safety issues. Other Job Functions: Other duties related to food and product safety as assigned.