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Food Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

$74K - $97K/yr

These programs apply to Federal and/or DOJ employees who meet the definition of surplus or ... Experience in supervising food preparation and ensuring nutritional needs are met. * Experience ...

Food Service Worker I

Hanford, CA · On-site

$17.16 - $20.91/hr

Working as a team, KCAO will seek and provide programs that develop self-sufficiency in individuals ... JOB SUMMARY: The Food Service Worker I is responsible for preparation and service of meals and ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 4, 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 Preparation Coordinator

Food Preparation Coordinator

AltaMed Health Services Corporation

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$25 - $29.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


AltaMed rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Grow Healthy
If you are as passionate about helping those in need as you are about growing your career, consider AltaMed. At AltaMed, your passion for helping others isn't just welcomed - it's nurtured, celebrated, and promoted, allowing you to grow while making a meaningful difference. We don't just serve our communities; we are an integral part of them. By raising the expectations of what a community clinic can deliver, we demonstrate our belief that quality care is for everyone. Our commitment to providing exceptional care, despite any challenges, goes beyond just a job; it's a calling that drives us forward every day.
Job Overview
The Food Preparation Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating all food services, including breakfast and lunch preparations, home meals, center snacks, and special events. The Food Preparation Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the daily duties of kitchen staff to jointly ensure that food is received, stored, prepared, served, and disposed of per applicable standards and regulations. 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 received from regulatory agencies.
Minimum Requirements
  • A Food Protection Manager certificate from an ANSI-accredited training provider meeting ASTM International E2659-09 Standard Practice for Certificate Programs is required. Or required within 90 days of hire.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish/Mandarin/Cantonese, depending on the demographics of the PACE site, is preferred.
  • A minimum of 2 years' foodservice experience working in food preparation is preferred.
  • Foodservice experience with the elderly in community or healthcare settings is preferred.
  • A minimum of 1 year of experience in leading or managing foodservice operations in any capacity is preferred.
  • A minimum requirement of a valid BLS certification or higher, following the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross guidelines.

Compensation
$25.00 - $29.32 hourly
Compensation Disclaimer
Actual salary offers are considered by various factors, including budget, experience, skills, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. The range is subject to change. AltaMed is committed to ensuring a fair and competitive compensation package that reflects the candidate's value and the role's strategic importance within the organization. This role may also qualify for discretionary bonuses or incentives.
Benefits & Career Development
  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement savings plans with employer matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Commuter Flexible Spending
  • Career Advancement & Development opportunities
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays
  • Paid CME Days
  • Malpractice insurance and tail coverage
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Corporate Employee Discounts
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Pet Care Insurance

Job Advertisement & Application Compliance Statement
AltaMed Health Services Corp. will consider qualified applicants with criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if AltaMed Health Service Corp. is concerned about a conviction directly related to the job, you will be given a chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.

What AltaMed employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

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About AltaMed Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AltaMed Health Services, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is a leading provider in the healthcare industry. Founded in 1969 as the East LA Barrio Free Clinic, the organization provides high-quality health and human services to the underserved and uninsured communities in Southern California. AltaMed offers a broad range of services including medical care, senior care, dental services, HIV care, pharmacy services, and health education. The company's mission is to eliminate disparities in healthcare access and outcomes by providing superior quality health and human services through an integrated world-class delivery system. AltaMed has also made notable achievements, including becoming the nation's largest federally qualified community health center (FQHC) and being named a leader in healthcare equality by the Human Rights Campaign for several consecutive years.

Industry

Fitness and sports centers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1969

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