POSITION: Food Service Coordinator / Working Head Cook at Kutztown Middle School
The Kutztown Area School District is seeking a full-time Food Service Coordinator / Working Head Cook at Kutztown Middle School to start the 2026-2027 school year. The Food Service Coordinator / Working Head Cook is responsible for the overall management, compliance, and performance of the District’s School Nutrition Program (SNP) while simultaneously serving in a lead, hands-on culinary role within daily kitchen operations. This position blends strategic oversight, staff supervision, and regulatory compliance with direct food preparation, kitchen leadership, and operational execution to ensure safe, appealing, cost-effective meals across the district.
The Head Cook provides safe and appealing meals and performs any duties associated with the food services department. The position is 12 months per year, 40 hours per week with benefits and retirement. This includes medical, dental, vision insurance and state retirement.
REPORTS TO: Business Administrator
QUALIFICATIONS:
Food services background, school based experience preferred.
Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree preferred in food and nutrition, food service management, culinary arts or business management.
Certification:
● Health and Criminal background clearances as required.
● ServSafe (or equivalent) certification.
● Requires medical examination as per Pennsylvania law; valid criminal history check; child abuse clearance; and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history investigation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program Leadership & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with all federal (USDA), state (PDE), and local regulations governing the School Nutrition Program
- Oversee free/reduced meal processes including applications, verification, and communication
- File required reports (e.g., monthly reimbursement claims, annual financial reports)
- Maintain food safety certification and ensure all kitchens meet inspection standards
- Lead wellness policy compliance and participate in district wellness initiatives
Kitchen Operations (Working Head Cook Function)
- Prepare and cook meals daily as assigned in a primary kitchen location
- Organize and manage kitchen workflow, including:
- Food preparation and service execution
- Delegation of tasks to staff
- Production records and documentation
- Maintain a safe, sanitary, and efficient kitchen environment at all times
- Support meal service across buildings, including production planning and delivery coordination
Staff Supervision & Leadership
- Supervise, train, and evaluate all cafeteria staff
- Develop schedules and assign staff based on operational needs
- Monitor and approve timesheets and payroll processes
- Provide ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and corrective action as needed
- Support hiring processes in collaboration with administration
Menu Planning & Nutrition Management
- Develop menus that are:
- Nutritionally compliant
- Cost-effective
- Appealing to students
- Coordinate special diets and allergy accommodations with nurses and families
- Ensure menus and nutrition information are published and accessible
Financial & Operational Management
- Develop and manage the food service budget
- Monitor revenues, expenditures, and participation trends
- Oversee inventory systems, ordering, and procurement processes
- Review and approve orders placed by kitchen staff
- Manage student accounts, uncollected debt communications and donations.
- Manage point-of-sale systems and cash reconciliation processes
Facilities, Equipment & Logistics
- Coordinate maintenance and repair of kitchen equipment
- Conduct regular kitchen site reviews
- Plan for long-term equipment and facility needs
- Ensure all kitchens operate efficiently and safely
Customer Service & Program Quality
- Establish expectations for high-quality food and customer service
- Monitor presentation, service flow, and student experience
- Lead and support district catering operations
Technology & Systems
- Utilize food service management software and POS systems
- Maintain accurate records, reports, and data systems
- Train staff in technology systems and processes
Other Duties
- Serve as primary contact for food service staff and consultants
- Attend district meetings as required
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Business Administrator or Superintendent
Competencies:
● Experience with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, with an emphasis on Google Sheets &
Microsoft Excel.
● Knowledge of Food Services, with an emphasis on management & logistics.
● Proficient use of food service program technology to compile, edit, verify, and publish
reports; create and compile database; spreadsheets, and utilize graphic applications.
● Ability to deal effectively and courteously with associates and the public, as well as show
discretion in handling confidential district information.
- Working knowledge of kitchen equipment, operations, applicable health codes and basic sanitation
● Possess a valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License.
SALARY: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour based upon experience
STARTING DATE: On or after July 1, 2026
APPLY TO: Please send a current resume and support staff application to
[email protected] or via mail to: Kutztown Area School District, Attn: Human Resources, 10 Deisher Lane, Kutztown, PA 19530
Applications can be found at , Employment tab, How to Apply.
DEADLINE: June 1, 2026
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary, work schedule, and other conditions of employment are in accordance with current LEA salary schedule and applicable policies. EOE.
Pay: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
