School Food Service Manager

School Food Service Managers, also known as Cafeteria Managers, oversee the preparation and serving of meals in schools. They plan menus, order food and supplies, and supervise kitchen staff. They also ensure that meals meet nutritional standards and that food is prepared and served safely.

Job Duties

School Food Service Managers typically perform the following duties:

• Plan menus
• Order food and supplies
• Supervise kitchen staff
• Ensure that meals meet nutritional standards
• Ensure that food is prepared and served safely
• Maintain records
• Prepare reports
• Manage budgets
• Work with parents and teachers
• Stay up-to-date on food safety regulations

Work Environment

School Food Service Managers typically work in school cafeterias. They may also work in other food service settings, such as hospitals or nursing homes. They typically work regular hours, but may need to work overtime during busy periods, such as lunch or dinner.

Education and Training

School Food Service Managers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates with a degree in food service management or a related field. School Food Service Managers must also have a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.

Advancement Opportunities

School Food Service Managers may advance to positions such as Food Service Director or District Manager. They may also open their own food service businesses.

Skills and Qualities

School Food Service Managers should have the following skills and qualities:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and management skills
• Knowledge of food safety regulations
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to handle stress and work under pressure

Personal Growth Opportunities

School Food Service Managers can experience personal growth opportunities in the following areas:

• Leadership
• Management
• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Decision-making

Challenges

School Food Service Managers may face the following challenges:

• Budget constraints
• Staffing shortages
• Meeting nutritional standards
• Ensuring food safety
• Dealing with difficult customers

Projects

School Food Service Managers may work on the following projects:

• Developing new menus
• Implementing new food safety programs
• Training new staff
• Budgeting for new equipment
• Working with parents and teachers to improve child nutrition

Self-Guided Projects

Students may complete the following self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for a career as a School Food Service Manager:

• Volunteer in a school cafeteria
• Shadow a School Food Service Manager
• Read books and articles about food service management
• Take online courses in food safety and nutrition
• Earn a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about the field of school food service management. These courses can provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in this career. Online courses can also help students prepare for the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.

Online courses typically cover the following topics:

• Food safety
• Nutrition
• Menu planning
• Kitchen management
• Customer service

Online courses can be a helpful learning tool for students who are interested in a career as a School Food Service Manager. However, online courses alone are not enough to follow a path to this career. Students should also gain practical experience by volunteering or shadowing a School Food Service Manager.