About this role
TITLE: FOOD & NUTRITION MANAGER (PreK-8)
DEPARTMENT: Food & Nutrition
REPORTS TO: Director of Food & Nutrition
FLSA STATUS/CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt: Level 6
SUPERVISORY DUTIES: School Food & Nutrition Staff
APPROVED ON: 5/14/2026
SUMMARY: The Food & Nutrition Manager oversees the daily operations of a school kitchen and cafeteria. This role ensures safe, efficient meal service while supporting district participation in federal nutrition programs. The manager leads staff, maintains compliance with food safety regulations, and promotes a high-quality, student-centered meal program. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Oversee daily kitchen and cafeteria operations, including meal preparation, service, and closing procedures
• Supervise, train, and support staff and student workers to ensure high-quality service
• Ensure compliance with USDA, NSLP, and food safety standards, including HACCP requirements
• Manage inventory, ordering, and food costs while maintaining adequate supplies
• Complete required reports, cash handling, and point-of-sale processes accurately
• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment
• Support special meal programs and promote student participation in meal services
• Foster a positive, customer-focused culture for students and staff
QUALIFICATIONS & CORE COMPETENCIES:
• High school diploma or equivalent; experience in food service management preferred
• Valid Food Handler's Certificate and Manager Certification (Yavapai County required)
• Knowledge of National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and food safety regulations
• HACCP certification or ability to obtain
• Strong leadership and staff supervision skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Basic math, budgeting, and inventory management skills
• Proficiency with basic computer programs (Google Suite, Microsoft Office)
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle conflict professionally
• Ability to collaborate with school staff, including nurses and nutrition specialists
• Any equivalent combination of training, education and experience that meets minimum requirements as defined by the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010
• Criminal justice/Fingerprint clearance
BENEFITS & OPPORTUNITIES:
• Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance paid for by the district
• Additional supplemental retirement options and voluntary insurance plans available
• Paid holidays and leave benefits
• Stable schedule aligned with the school calendar
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Supportive team environment within a public school district
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. This position requires regular use of hands and arms, frequent sitting, and occasional standing and walking. The employee may lift or move up to 10 pounds regularly and up to 25 pounds occasionally. WORK ENVIRONMENT: This position primarily works indoors in a school kitchen and cafeteria setting. The environment is generally moderate in noise level but may become loud during meal service. Regular interaction with staff, students, and the public is expected. Disclaimer This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties. Responsibilities may change or be assigned as needed. This document is provided for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).