The Goddard School – Food Service Manager
Position Summary
The Food Service Manager is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with state licensing regulations and The Goddard School's health and safety standards. This role oversees all aspects of kitchen operations, including food ordering, inventory management, sanitation, compliance, and maintaining a safe and healthy food service environment for children and staff.
Key Responsibilities
Food Preparation & Service
- Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to approved menus and nutritional guidelines.
- Accommodate food allergies, dietary restrictions, and special meal requirements while maintaining strict food safety procedures.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule.
- Maintain portion control and proper food temperatures during preparation and service.
- Present food in an appealing, child-friendly manner.
Kitchen Operations
- Manage daily kitchen operations and workflow.
- Order food, supplies, and kitchen equipment while maintaining budget expectations.
- Monitor inventory levels and minimize waste.
- Receive and properly store deliveries according to food safety standards.
- Maintain accurate records of food purchases, inventory, and meal counts.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal health regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times.
- Conduct regular cleaning and sanitation of kitchen equipment, food preparation areas, refrigerators, and storage spaces.
- Monitor and document food temperatures, cleaning schedules, and safety logs.
- Participate in health inspections and licensing visits as needed.
- Follow all Goddard School policies and procedures regarding food handling and child safety.
Communication & Collaboration
- Communicate effectively with school leadership regarding menu planning, inventory needs, and kitchen operations.
- Collaborate with teachers and administrators regarding children's dietary needs and allergies.
- Provide exceptional customer service to families and staff regarding nutrition and meal-related concerns.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Food Service Manager Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire) required.
- ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification preferred.
- Previous experience in food service, school nutrition programs, childcare centers, healthcare facilities, or commercial kitchens preferred.
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation practices.
- Experience managing inventory and food ordering.
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and stand for extended periods.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Preferred Skills
- Experience working in a childcare or educational setting.
- Knowledge of allergy-safe food preparation procedures.
- Ability to work independently and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Positive attitude and commitment to providing healthy meals for children.
Physical Requirements
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.
- Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
- Ability to work in hot and cold kitchen environments.
Benefits
- Competitive pay based on experience.
- Paid training and professional development opportunities.
- Health, dental, and vision benefits (if applicable).
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Supportive, family-focused work environment.
The Goddard School is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.
This Is Your Moment
The joy of childhood comes from those bright sparks of discovery -- moments that delight and surprise us. Your career at The Goddard School can be just as exciting. For more than 35 years, Goddard Schools have put each teacher at the heart of everything we do because teachers put each student at the heart of everything they do. The Goddard School trusts, empowers, and honors its exceptional educators. Develop your teaching skills in a vibrant and nurturing environment and make a difference in children's lives every day.
Each Goddard School location is privately owned and operated by Goddard Franchisor LLC franchisees. The Goddard School franchise owner(s) are the employers at each school, and the franchise owner(s) set their own wage and benefit programs, which vary by location.
