Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Salary
Range $85,000.00 - $90,000.00
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Day Shifts
Benefits
Medical
Dental
Vision
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
holiday time off
Associate Shopping Program
Health and wellness programs
Discount Marketplace
Identity Theft Protection
Pet insurance
Commuter Benefits
Employee assistance program
flexible spending accounts
Paid parental leave
Personal Leave
Job Description
Chartwells K12 is a leading food service management company dedicated to creating happier and healthier student experiences in school cafeterias across the United States. With more than 16,000 associates supporting 4,500 schools, ranging from large public school districts to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 specializes in delivering custom dining programs tailored to the needs of K-12 students. The company prides itself on decades of expertise in food service, education, and operational management, harnessed by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability professionals. As part of Compass Group USA, Chartwells K12 benefits from being part of a vast global network committed to excellence and innovation in the foodservice industry.
This opportunity is for an experienced Director of Dining Services to lead and manage food service operations within an elementary school district serving approximately 3,800 students across six schools (four K-5 and two middle schools) under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The position is full-time, operating Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with lighter duties during summer months focused on planning, program development, and ensuring readiness for the upcoming school year. The director will oversee a dedicated team of 40 union frontline employees and work closely with engaged clients to enhance meal programs.
The Director of Dining Services is responsible for core meal service operations while also having the opportunity to build and expand catering programs. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and significant experience in K-12 food service management. They should demonstrate a proven track record of success in profit and loss management, menu development, and food program execution. This role requires a dynamic self-starter capable of leveraging Compass Group's tools and resources, providing strong leadership, clear direction, and inspiring innovation to grow the food service program. The candidate should be adaptable, solutions-oriented, and committed to long-term growth and success. Culinary experience is preferred, enhancing the ability to develop appealing menus and maintain high-quality food standards.
Applicants can anticipate a competitive salary range of $85,000 to $90,000 annually with an annual bonus incentive of up to 20 percent. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plans, paid time off, and other wellness and support programs. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and happiness of students through exceptional dining service leadership and innovation.
This opportunity is for an experienced Director of Dining Services to lead and manage food service operations within an elementary school district serving approximately 3,800 students across six schools (four K-5 and two middle schools) under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The position is full-time, operating Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with lighter duties during summer months focused on planning, program development, and ensuring readiness for the upcoming school year. The director will oversee a dedicated team of 40 union frontline employees and work closely with engaged clients to enhance meal programs.
The Director of Dining Services is responsible for core meal service operations while also having the opportunity to build and expand catering programs. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and significant experience in K-12 food service management. They should demonstrate a proven track record of success in profit and loss management, menu development, and food program execution. This role requires a dynamic self-starter capable of leveraging Compass Group's tools and resources, providing strong leadership, clear direction, and inspiring innovation to grow the food service program. The candidate should be adaptable, solutions-oriented, and committed to long-term growth and success. Culinary experience is preferred, enhancing the ability to develop appealing menus and maintain high-quality food standards.
Applicants can anticipate a competitive salary range of $85,000 to $90,000 annually with an annual bonus incentive of up to 20 percent. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plans, paid time off, and other wellness and support programs. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and happiness of students through exceptional dining service leadership and innovation.
Job Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field
- minimum five years of foodservice management experience, preferably in a K12 environment
- proven ability in profit and loss management
- strong leadership and team-building capabilities
- knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and quality standards
- excellent communication and organizational skills
- proficiency with relevant technology and software
- ability to work Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 4 PM
- capacity to manage a team of unionized employees effectively
Job Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in nutrition, management, hospitality, culinary preferred or equivalent experience
- K12 food service management experience
- five plus years of foodservice management experience
- strong knowledge of high-volume food production, including catering trends preferred
- previous profit and loss accountability or contract-managed services experience
- exceptional leadership and communication skills
- proficiency in computer skills
- bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
Job Duties
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of 40 union frontline associates
- drive strategic initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profitability
- recruit, train, and develop top talent within the organization
- own the annual budget and control costs optimally
- ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards
- build strong relationships with clients, customers, and associates
- perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of dining service operations
Job Criteria
Experience
Expert Level (7+ years)
Job Location
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