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School Food Service Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sourcewell

Part-time Food Service

Staples, MN · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Food Service Director / Head Cook Employment Status: Part-Time Work Schedule: Determined by district needs and school calendar Location: Menahga Public Schools Position Summary The Part-Time School ...

Epic Healthcare

Food Service Director

Matawan, NJ · On-site

Food Service Director We are a dedicated nursing home committed to providing exceptional care to our residents. Our team of professionals works collaboratively to create a nurturing and supportive ...

Sourcewell

Part-time Food Service

Menahga, MN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Food Service Director / Head Cook Employment Status: Part-Time Work Schedule: Determined by district needs and school calendar Location: Menahga Public Schools Position Summary The Part-Time School ...

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School Food Service Director information

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$32K

$66.6K

$110K

How much do school food service director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for school food service director in the United States is $66,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a school food service director do?

A School Food Service Director oversees the planning, preparation, and serving of meals in a school or school district. Their responsibilities include menu planning, ensuring meals meet nutritional and safety standards, managing staff, budgeting, and complying with federal and state regulations. They often work closely with administrators, parents, and students to promote healthy eating habits and ensure a positive dining experience for students. Additionally, they may coordinate special programs such as free or reduced-price meal plans.

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

To thrive as a School Food Service Director, you need expertise in nutrition, food safety, menu planning, and budget management, often supported by a degree in nutrition, dietetics, or food service management. Familiarity with USDA regulations, food service software, and certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and organizational skills enable effective team management and stakeholder collaboration. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and nutritious meal programs that meet regulatory standards and support student well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by school food service directors, and how can they be managed?

School Food Service Directors often face challenges such as meeting federal nutrition standards, managing tight budgets, and accommodating diverse dietary needs within the student body. Balancing cost-effectiveness while maintaining menu variety and nutritional quality requires careful planning and creativity. Effective communication with school administrators, kitchen staff, and vendors is essential to ensure smooth operations and compliance. Staying updated on regulations and fostering a collaborative team environment can help manage these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between School Food Service Director vs School Cafeteria Manager?

AspectSchool Food Service DirectorSchool Cafeteria Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire food service program, manages staff, plans menus, ensures complianceManages daily cafeteria operations, supervises staff, handles food prep and service
CredentialsOften requires a food service management certification or related experienceTypically requires high school diploma; experience in food service preferred
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office and multiple school sitesOn-site in school cafeteria
Industry UsageCommonly used in school district administrationUsed in individual school cafeterias

The School Food Service Director generally has broader responsibilities, overseeing multiple sites and managing staff and compliance at a district level. The School Cafeteria Manager focuses on daily operations within a single school. Both roles require food service experience, but the director position often requires additional certifications and leadership skills.

What cities are hiring for School Food Service Director jobs?

Cities with the most School Food Service Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of School Food Service jobs?

The most popular types of School Food Service jobs are:

What states have the most School Food Service Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for School Food Service Director jobs include:

School Food Service Director jobs near you

Food Service Director

Fox River Grove Consolidated School District #3

Fox River Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff
Date Posted:
8/3/2026
Location:
Fox River Grove School District #3
Date Available:
08/17/2026
Title: Food Service Director
Position Purpose
The food service director plans, organizes, directs, administers, and assumes the responsibilities of the food service program according to the policies approved by the Board of Education. Recommends policies, procedures and directions. Serves as consultant on matters of nutrition, education, and food services
Performance Responsibilities:
1. Direct supervision of all school food service employees.
2. Supervise and motivate employees.
3. Carry out school food service program regulations, policies, and procedures.
4. Relate school food service programs, through public relations, to school and non-school groups.
5. Manage food production processes.
6. Develop food and supply purchase specifications and purchase these items at best cost.
7. Supervise, coordinate, and evaluate the work of all food service employees.
8. Plan menus to meet nutritional and financial objectives according to student preferences.
9. Consult with school administration to develop policies, objectives, and procedures for operating school food service programs in all schools.
10. Prepare all required reports and correspondence.
11. Purchase all food, equipment, and supplies according to district policies.
12. Maintain inventory over all food, supplies, and equipment.
13. Consult, interview, select, and assign school food service employees.
14. Help prepare and cook food.
15. Follow standardized recipes.
16. Clean and maintain equipment and facilities according to Illinois Department of Public Health Standards.
17. Help on cafeteria service line.
18. Help wash trays, pots & pans, etc.
19. Serve proper portions as required by the State.
20. Cooperate with Middle School principal and superintendent.
21. Maintain high standards of food preparation, sanitation, and safety.
22. Adheres to training on Civil Rights and all areas of sanitation and safety.
23. Perform other tasks as assigned by the Middle School principal or superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Qualifications
Experience with emphasis in the areas of food, nutrition, institution administration, education or related fields. Licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health in Food Service Sanitation.
Varied experience in food service administration with progressively responsible positions.
FLSA Status: Nonexempt

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