Operational Manager – School Food Service Program

Location: Chippewa Valley Schools
Reports to: Director of Food & Nutrition Services
Position Type: 10 Month

POSITIONSUMMARY:

The Operational Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the school food service program across 21 school sites. This position ensures the efficient safe and compliant preparation and delivery of meals in accordance with USDA regulations local health codes and district policies. The manager provides leadership training and support to Lead Servers and staff while maintaining a focus on high-quality food service student satisfaction and operational excellence.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operations & Oversight

• Oversee daily operations ensuring timely meal preparation service and delivery.
• Monitor compliance with federal state and local child nutrition program regulations including the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) National School Breakfast Program (NSBP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) as applicable.
• Conduct regular site visits to evaluate service quality food safety sanitation practices and staff performance.

Staff Management

• Supervise train and support kitchen lead servers and staff to maintain consistent high-quality operations.
• Assist with recruitment onboarding and performance evaluations of food service personnel.
• Promote teamwork and foster a positive work environment aligned with district goals.

Menu & Procurement Support

• Coordinate with the Director of Food Service and Dietitian to support the implementation of standardized menus and recipes.
• Ensure proper inventory control ordering procedures and cost-effective food procurement practices.
• Monitor food and supply usage to minimize waste and manage costs.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations including HACCP protocols allergen management and food storage procedures.
• Maintain records required for audits and regulatory compliance (e.g. temperature logs production records meal counts etc.).

Customer Service & Community Engagement

• Address concerns from school staff students and guardians regarding food service as needed.
• Support nutrition education initiatives and special promotions to increase student participation in meal programs.

Budget & Reporting

• Assist in budget management and analysis of meal program performance data.
• Provide input on equipment needs staffing levels and capital improvements.
• Process Invoices as necessary

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience

• Associate or Bachelors degree in Food Service Management Nutrition Business Administration or related field preferred.
• Preferred Minimum 35 years of supervisory experience in food service operations preferably in a school or institutional setting.
• Experience with USDA Child Nutrition Programs strongly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership communication and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of menu planning food production inventory control and cost management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and experience with food service management software
• Ability to multitask prioritize and respond quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid drivers license and ability to travel between school sites.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Frequently travels to school sites within the district.
• Occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Works in office kitchen and storage areas including exposure to heat cold and food preparation equipment.

Required Experience:

Manager