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Food Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to adapt to menu changes and meet meal and snack ...

Food Specialist

Laurel, MD ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Title: Full-time Food Service Specialist/ Direct Support Professional Salary: 21.00 hourly Schedule: Monday, Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. POSITION SUMMARY: The Food Serve Safe specialist is responsible ...

The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to adapt to menu changes and meet meal and snack ...

Food Specialist II

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$18.15 - $22.69/hr

Food Specialist II Posting Number req26600 Department Animal&Biomedical Sciences-Res Department Website Link Location Tucson Area Farms Address 4101 N Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719 USA Position ...

The KKC Food Specialist is responsible for all aspects of KKC food offerings, including preparing and cooking food products in a timely, clean and orderly manner according to established ...

The KKC Food Specialist is responsible for all aspects of KKC food offerings, including preparing and cooking food products in a timely, clean and orderly manner according to established ...

Fresh Food Specialist

Gardena, CA ยท On-site

$19.70/hr

Description Looking for a new opportunity as a Fresh Food Specialist? Join the Air Fayre team! In this role, you will be responsible for receiving, verifying, and managing fresh food inventory to ...

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Food Specialist information

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$7

$17

$33

How much do food specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for food specialist in the United States is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food specialist?

A food specialist is a term that can refer to a number of jobs in the food service industry, such as food service specialists and food safety specialists. As a food specialist, your job duties may include food preparation, menu planning, supply ordering, and hygiene-related tasks. The qualifications to have a career as a food specialist include a high school diploma or equivalent and industry experience.

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

To thrive as a Food Specialist, you need expertise in food safety, nutrition, and culinary techniques, often supported by a degree in food science, nutrition, or a related field. Familiarity with food safety regulations, HACCP systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help Food Specialists excel in ensuring quality and compliance. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining food standards, meeting regulatory requirements, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges a food specialist may face when working with cross-functional teams?

Food Specialists often collaborate with chefs, nutritionists, procurement, and quality assurance teams. A key challenge is balancing diverse priorities, such as meeting nutritional standards while ensuring cost-effectiveness and appealing flavors. Effective communication and adaptability are essential to align goals across departments. Building strong relationships and staying open to feedback can help Food Specialists navigate these complexities and deliver successful outcomes.
What cities are hiring for Food Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Food Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Food Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,117 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Food Specialist

GREATER SAINT JOHN CATHEDRAL

Upper Marlboro, MD โ€ข On-site

$15.97/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Paid Holiday

 | OVERVIEW
The Food Specialist is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks to children in accordance with childcare nutrition guidelines.
| OBJECTIVE/PURPOSE |
 
 Under general supervision, the Food Specialist’s role ensures food safety, sanitation compliance, and a clean kitchen environment while supporting the overall mission of Greater Christian Community Daycare to nurture children in a safe, healthy, and loving environment.
| PRINCIPAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES |  
  • Plan and prepare balanced breakfasts, lunches, and snacks that meet state licensing and USDA/CACFP guidelines (if applicable). 
  • Maintain accurate meal counts and required documentation.
  • Follow approved menus and accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions. 
  • Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, equipment, and food preparation areas.
  • Monitor inventory and submit supply requests as needed.
  • Adhere to all local, state, and federal health and safety regulations.
  • Work cooperatively with staff to ensure smooth meal service. 
  • Model positive interactions and professional conduct at all times.
| QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required. 
  • At least one year of experience in food preparation, preferably in a childcare or institutional setting that meets the Child Care Administration State Balanced and Nutritional Food Program. 
  • CPR/First Aid Certified 
  • Knowledge of basic nutrition and food safety practices. 
  • Food Handler’s Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire). 
  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and stand for extended periods. 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
  • Heart for children and alignment with the values of a Christian-centered environment. 
  • Must be able to present professionally to senior leadership and outside vendors, etc.