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Summer Food Program Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Chef

Memphis, TN

$62K - $82K/yr

Develops standardized recipes that meet USDA requirements for the National School Lunch and National School Breakfast programs, At-Risk, CACFP, and Summer Food Service Programs/Seamless Summer.

Chef

Memphis, TN · On-site

$62K - $82K/yr

Develops standardized recipes that meet USDA requirements for the National School Lunch and National School Breakfast programs, At-Risk, CACFP, and Summer Food Service Programs/Seamless Summer.

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Greene County Schools - 910 West Summer Street, Greenville, TN 37743. Note: online applications ... The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ...

Greene County Schools - 910 West Summer Street, Greeneville, TN 37743. Note: online applications ... The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Greene County Schools - 910 West Summer Street, Greenville, TN 37743. Note: online applications ... The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ...

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

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Summer Food Program information

See Tennessee salary details

$29.5K

$44K

$106.2K

How much do summer food program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for summer food program in Tennessee is $44,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,300.00 and $31,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in a Summer Food Program role, and how can they be effectively managed?

Staff in Summer Food Program roles often encounter challenges such as managing high meal volumes during short service windows, ensuring compliance with nutrition and safety standards, and engaging with children from diverse backgrounds. Effective communication, teamwork, and strong organizational skills are essential for addressing these challenges. Training on food safety protocols and clear coordination with supervisors and volunteers can help maintain smooth operations and a positive environment for both staff and program participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Summer Food Program coordinator or staff role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Food Program role, you need organizational skills, basic food safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meal tracking software, compliance documentation, and food handling certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help staff interact positively with children, families, and coworkers. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and inclusive delivery of nutritious meals to children during the summer months.

What is a Summer Food Program?

A Summer Food Program is a federally funded initiative that provides free, nutritious meals to children and teens during the summer months when school is not in session. These programs are designed to ensure that kids who rely on free or reduced-price school meals continue to have access to healthy food during summer break. Meals are typically served at community centers, schools, parks, and other local sites, and are available to all children under 18 years old. Families do not need to apply or show proof of income to participate.

What is the difference between Summer Food Program vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer Food ProgramSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsNone typically required; food safety training may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certification often required
Work EnvironmentFood service sites, schools, community centersOutdoor and indoor camp settings, recreational areas
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, government agencies, non-profitsSummer camps, recreational organizations, schools
Job FocusProviding nutritious meals to children during summerSupervising children, organizing activities, ensuring safety

The Summer Food Program primarily focuses on providing nutritious meals to children during summer months, often working in food service environments. In contrast, Summer Camp Counselors supervise children, organize activities, and ensure safety at recreational camps. While both roles serve children during summer, their responsibilities, credentials, and work environments differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Program jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Food Program jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Summer Food Program jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Summer Food Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Food Program job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,000 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Food Program Monitor - J.A. Henry Y (Part-time/Seasonal)

YMCA

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,986 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

559th of 759 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Are you passionate about ensuring children have access to nutritious meals? Do you enjoy promoting healthy food choices and compliance with regulations?

Join our J.A. Henry Food and Fun team as a seasonal (summer) Food Program Monitor and make a positive impact on the community. As a site monitor, you will ensure accurate meal distribution, compliance with USDA guidelines, and provide training to program sites. This role offers the opportunity to learn about federal child nutrition programs, develop communication skills, and contribute to the well-being of children.

This seasonal job is Monday-Friday with shifts from 8am-6pm, starting summer 2026. We provide all of the training you'll need to learn about SFSP & USDA guidelines.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Become fully knowledgeable in USDA guidelines for the SFSP.
  • Ability to travel locally to various sites.
  • Conducts compliance visits to ensure all program sites are in good standing with the YMCA and USDA's food service standards.
  • Provides technical assistance and training for program sites to support overall program growth and development.
  • Ensure the safe handling and counting of meals on site.
  • Ensure that all mandated state material is visible.
  • Works to promote meal locations through community outreach efforts.
  • Attends all staff meeting and training sessions as required.
  • Adjust and adapt to changing conditions and priorities of the program.
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Intermediate or advanced computer skills.
  • First Aid, CPR, AED, and O2 required upon hire.
  • New Employee Orientation required within first week of hire.
  • Child Abuse Trainings & Food Safety Training required upon hire.
  • SFSP & USDA training required upon hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Ability to conduct training sessions and activities.
  • Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position, including demonstrating exercises, walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.).

A BETTER US STARTS WITH U!
Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts people's lives. We are seeking to add new members to our team who are motivated and committed to serving others. Whether you are experienced or not, we will provide the resources and training needed for you to grow and succeed. If you want more than just a job - if you're looking to discover a sense of purpose and opportunities to contribute to the greater good - then the Y is the place for you. Join us!

Education:{"credentialcategory":"high school","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential"}Employment Type: PART_TIME

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