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Food Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AltaMed

Food Preparation Coordinator

Anaheim, CA

$25 - $29.32/hr

The Food Preparation Coordinator is responsible for maintaining records for compliance with the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), internal policy requirements, and guidance or instructions ...

Vacaville Christian Schools

Food Handler

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$17/hr

The primary responsibility of the Food Services Technician position is to offer superior support and professionalism in the day to day operations of the Food Program to our students and staff in a ...

Faces SF

Program Operations Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Conduct regular evaluations of food program operations, provide training and technical assistance to staff, and prepare for and support administrative reviews and data collection to ensure compliance

New

Sodexo

General Manager 3 - Food

San Jose, CA

This role oversees cafe and catering services while cultivating strong client partnerships and shaping a dynamic, modern food program. The GM plays a critical role in upholding elevated standards ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFood Program JobsFood Program Jobs in California

Food Program information

See California salary details

$21.2K

$45.1K

$62.2K

How much do food program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for food program in California is $45,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $46,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Program Manager, you need expertise in nutrition, food safety regulations, program management, and typically a degree in nutrition, public health, or a related field. Familiarity with meal planning software, inventory management systems, and compliance certifications such as ServSafe are often required. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills help in coordinating teams, interacting with stakeholders, and addressing community needs. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and impactful food service operations that meet both regulatory standards and the nutritional needs of participants.

What is the difference between Food Program vs Food Service Worker?

AspectFood ProgramFood Service Worker
CredentialsMay require certifications in nutrition, food safety, or program managementTypically requires food safety training or certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, government agencies, non-profitsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services, institutional kitchens
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, government agencies, educational institutionsPrivate restaurants, cafeterias, hospitality industry
Job FocusProgram planning, community outreach, nutrition educationFood preparation, serving, customer service

While both roles involve food handling, Food Program positions focus on managing and implementing food-related initiatives within communities or organizations, often requiring specialized certifications. Food Service Workers primarily handle food preparation and service in commercial or institutional settings. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a Food Program, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Food Programs often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple suppliers, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and managing tight budgets while meeting nutritional standards. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and staying up-to-date with food safety guidelines are essential to overcoming these obstacles. Collaborating closely with team members and stakeholders can also help streamline operations and ensure the program runs smoothly.

What is a Food Program?

A Food Program refers to a structured initiative, often run by governments, schools, or non-profit organizations, designed to provide meals or nutritional assistance to specific populations. These programs aim to address food insecurity, ensure access to healthy food, and promote overall well-being. Common examples include school lunch programs, food banks, and supplemental nutrition assistance programs. Food Programs may target children, low-income families, seniors, or communities affected by emergencies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Food Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Program jobs in California? For Food Program jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Program jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Food Program jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Food Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Food Program job openings:
Food Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Program job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,123 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Meal Program Assistant

Meal Program Assistant

Odyssey Charter Schools

Altadena, CA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Now is a great time to join our Community!

Meal Program Assistant

Position Overview

Under the supervision of the Director of Food Services and administrative staff, the Meal Program Assistant supports daily school operations, including food preparation and service. This position rotates weekly between the OCS and OCS-South campuses and contributes significantly to both the food services team and general school operations.

The primary functions and responsibilities of the Meal Program Assistant include, but are not limited to:

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Prepare and serve meals during breakfast and lunch according to NSLP standards
  • Clean and sanitize food preparation areas and tools
  • Take point-of-service meal counts, conduct monthly reviews, and submit claims data
  • Support with food program planning, compliance, and communication with staff/parents
  • Monitor students during lunch, recess, assemblies, emergency drills, and playtime
  • Rotate weekly between OCS and OCS-South
  • Performs other duties as needed to support organizational needs

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Basic tech literacy
  • Ability to multitask and work independently or on a team

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 6 months to 1 year of food service and/or office administrative experience
  • Valid CA Food Handling Certification

Compensation and Schedule

This is a part-time position (approximately 20 hours per week) with an annual calendar of 185 workdays and a compensation of $21.00 to $23.00 per hour. The tentative schedule for this position is Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 1:30pm.

This position participates in the CA State Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Employees may also elect to participate in other benefit programs offered by Odyssey Charter Schools including a 403B Retirement Plan, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and various policies offered through AFLAC.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands and fingers, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to squat, stoop, kneel, reach above the head and forward, and may need to climb ladders. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally up to 100 pounds such as furniture or bulk supplies. The work environment includes indoor and outdoor settings and occasional exposure to cleaning agents and other chemicals. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EEO Statement

Odyssey Charter Schools is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

About Odyssey Charter Schools

Odyssey Charter Schools are a pair of independent, public charter schools located in the Altadena community that currently serve over 620 students in grades Transitional Kindergarten through 8th grade. Initially established in 1999, our two campuses offer students and families an educational option that is centered on Academic Excellence, Social-Emotional Wellbeing, and Social Responsibility in a diverse by design environment.