School Food Service DirectorPosition: School Food Service DirectorDistrict: MSAD53 (PK-8)Employment Type: Full-Time Reports To: Superintendent / Business ManagerAbout Our DistrictIn MSAD 53 School District, we believe that healthy bodies fuel bright minds. Serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade, our mission is to provide nutritious, high-quality, and delicious meals that support academic success and lifelong healthy habits. We are seeking a passionate, leadership-driven Food Service Director to oversee our cafeteria operations and nurture an environment where students love to eat.Position OverviewThe School Food Service Director manages the entire food service operation across our PK-8 campuses. This includes menu planning, nutritional compliance, financial management, staff supervision, and purchasing.
The ideal candidate will balance a sharp eye for budgeting with a creative approach to introducing healthy, kid-friendly meals.Key Expectations & ResponsibilitiesMenu Planning & Nutrition: Design appetizing, balanced menus that appeal to diverse PK-8 students while strictly complying with the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), and state/federal nutritional guidelines.Financial Management: Develop and manage the annual food service budget. Monitor food and labor costs, maximize inventory efficiency, and oversee state/federal reimbursement claims.Team Leadership: Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate cafeteria staff. Foster a positive, collaborative, and safety-first kitchen environment.Operations & Safety: Maintain the highest standards of food safety and sanitation (HACCP). Ensure all kitchen equipment is properly maintained and compliant with local health department regulations.Community Engagement: Promote the school nutrition program through creative initiatives, taste-testings, and collaboration with parents, teachers, and student councils.Qualifications & RequirementsEducation & Experience: Minimum: Associate degree in Food Service Management, Dietetics, Culinary Arts, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
(Bachelors degree preferred).Alternative: High School Diploma/GED plus 3+ years of relevant school nutrition experience may be considered in lieu of a degree, per USDA Professional Standards.Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in commercial food service, preferably within a K-12 school system.Certifications & Skills: Current ServSafe Manager Certification (or equivalent state-approved food safety certification).Deep understanding of USDA Child Nutrition Program regulations.Proficiency with school food service software (e.g., POS systems, inventory tracking) and basic office software (MS Office/Google Workspace).Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 40 pounds, and work in typical commercial kitchen environments.What We OfferCompetitive salary commensurate with experience.Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.Enrollment in the State Teachers/Public Employees Retirement System.Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays.Professional development and continuing education opportunities funded by the district.Fingerprinting required by the Maine Department of Education.How to ApplyInterested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references via our online application portal at www.msad53.orgApplication Deadline: Open until the position is filled. MSAD53 School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
