Food Service Manager (Project Management)
Job Title: Food Service Manager
Location: NMA
Reports To: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time (School Year)
Compensation: $45,000-$55,000
Job Summary
NMA is seeking a dependable and organized Food Service Manager to lead the daily operations of the schools food service program. This role ensures compliance with federal and state regulations while managing food safety, meal service, inventory, vendor relationships, and reporting. The Food Service Manager also oversees the collection and processing of Free and Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL) forms, ensuring all students and families have access to the meal benefits they qualify for.
Key Responsibilities
Meal Preparation & Service
Oversee the daily preparation, delivery, and service of breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Ensure meals meet USDA and MDE nutrition standards and portion requirements.
Maintain food quality, safety, temperature, and presentation during all meal services.
Assist with food prep and service when needed to support staffing or special needs.
Operations & Compliance
Manage kitchen cleanliness and food safety in accordance with health code and ServSafe guidelines.
Coordinate daily kitchen operations including inventory, equipment maintenance, and food storage.
Complete and maintain required compliance records such as production sheets, temperature logs, cleaning checklists, and sanitation reports.
Food Ordering & Vendor Management
Oversee food ordering through CLiCS (Cyber-Linked Interactive Child Nutrition System) to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
Manage strong working relationships with CKC Good Food and other food vendors to ensure product quality, timely delivery, and issue resolution.
Monitor food inventory and manage restocking schedules to prevent shortages or excess waste.
Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program Oversight
Coordinate the distribution, collection, and processing of Free and Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL) forms.
Assist families with completing FRPL applications and answer questions about eligibility.
Enter and maintain accurate eligibility data in the schools Student Information System (SIS).
Ensure compliance with MDE and USDA regulations regarding FRPL documentation and confidentiality.
Staff Supervision & Training
Supervise and schedule kitchen staff; provide direction and support for daily tasks.
Train staff on food handling, kitchen safety, and compliance protocols.
Promote a positive team culture aligned with NMAs values and mission.
Reporting & Record-Keeping
Maintain accurate meal counts, participation reports, and records for state reimbursement through CLiCS.
Submit required food service documentation and prepare for MDE audits and site visits.
Track food waste and implement strategies for efficient meal planning.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with the Director of Operations and school leadership to accommodate special dietary needs, allergies, and event planning.
Maintain communication with CKC and other vendors regarding orders, schedules, and concerns.
Act as a food service liaison for school staff and families when needed.
Qualifications
Required
High school diploma or equivalent
2+ years of experience in food service, with 1+ year in a supervisory role
ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
Experience in food ordering, inventory, and vendor coordination
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and stand for extended periods
Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
High attention to detail and record-keeping accuracy
Preferred
Experience using CLiCS and familiarity with NSLP/USDA regulations
Experience overseeing Free and Reduced-Price Lunch forms and data
Experience working with school meal vendors
Bilingual or multilingual abilities
Knowledge of MDE meal program compliance and school-based food service systems
