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School Food Service Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pearl of Montclare

Food Service Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Pearl of Montclare Food Service Director The Food Service Director plans, organizes, develops, and directs the overall operation of the Culinary and Nutritional Department in accordance with company ...

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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 Jul 28, 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 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 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 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 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 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 - K-12 School Food Service

Food Service Director - K-12 School Food Service

Lunchtime Solutions, Inc.

Wabasha, MN • On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Lunchtime Solutions rating

4.1

Company rating: 4.1 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

Food Service Director– Lunchtime Solutions
Location: On-site at Wahoo School District, Wabasha-Kellogg School District
Schedule: Monday–Friday daytime hours (hourly position aligned with the school year — summers off)
Pay Range: $20.00-21.50 per hour
We’re looking for a motivated and hands-on Food Service Director to lead and support a successful school nutrition program. In this role, you’ll oversee daily kitchen operations, guide and develop your team, and ensure students receive safe, high-quality meals every day. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys leading a team, building relationships, and making a positive impact in a school community.
What You’ll Do
  • Oversee daily food service operations, ensuring smooth, efficient meal service
  • Lead, train, and support a team in a positive, team-focused environment
  • Maintain strong food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards (HACCP, USDA, OSHA)
  • Manage inventory, ordering, and cost controls
  • Plan menus, support promotions, and drive student satisfaction
  • Build strong relationships with school staff, administration, and the community
  • Monitor financial performance, including labor and food costs
  • Help recruit, onboard, and develop team members
  • Create a culture focused on teamwork, quality, and continuous improvement
What We’re Looking For
  • HS Diploma or GED Required
  • 3 years of experience in a food service supervisory role
  • Strong leadership, communication, time management and organizational skills
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
  • ServeSafe Certification preferred or ability to obtain
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead by example
  • Comfort with basic computer systems and reporting tools
  • Passion for delivering a great experience for students and staff
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
  • Enjoy your evenings and weekends our Monday–Friday daytime schedule means no late nights, no weekends, and no holidays spent in a kitchen.
  • Follow the school-year rhythm work when school is in session and enjoy built‑in breaks when students are out.
  • Plan for your future with our 401(k) retirement plan
  • Enjoy work life balance with paid time off and paid holidays
  • Eat well enjoy a free, delicious meal every shift.
  • Stay supported with a limited medical benefit plan available
Our Values
At Lunchtime Solutions, our success comes from team members who:
  • Take pride in what you do
  • Focus on customer success
  • Be a person of integrity
  • Drive to improve
  • Do it with passion
  • Express gratitude
  • Work as a team
  • Pursue lasting partnerships
  • Embrace a healthy work-life balance
If these values resonate with you, we’d love to meet you!
Lunchtime Solutions performs post offer background investigations prior to starting employment with our company. This background investigation may involve verifying or reviewing any of the following relevant information: criminal convictions and DMV record if appropriate for the position.
Lunchtime Solutions Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. EOE-M/F/Disabled/Vet. View Policy

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