Director of Nutrition Services Anticipated (2026-2027)

The hiring establishment is a well-established educational district that manages comprehensive nutrition services for its diverse student population. This district operates a multi-unit food service department, delivering approximately 9,500 meals daily across breakfast and lunch, with an annual operating budget of 3.1 million dollars. Dedicated to providing wholesome and nutritious meals that meet federal and state nutritional standards, the district emphasizes efficient financial management and staff training in their operations. They maintain four central production centers and are highly focused on compliance with regulatory guidelines while addressing the needs of an ethnically diverse student body. This organization is committed to excellence in school nutrition services and aims to lead by example through innovation, management, and community engagement.

The role of Director of Nutrition Services is pivotal within this setting. This is a full-time, 12-month, exempt, and non-bargaining unit position, primarily responsible for overseeing all facets of the food service department. Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent for Business and Financial Services, the Director provides leadership in strategic planning, budgeting, personnel management, and operational oversight. The role involves managing an extensive team that includes unit supervisors, assistant supervisors, nutrition services assistants, drivers, and other staff members.

This position encompasses fiscal responsibilities such as the development and administration of the annual operating budget and implementation of robust financial management systems. The Director is charged with establishing effective procurement and distribution procedures for food and non-food supplies, ensuring adherence to safety and sanitation standards, and optimizing menu development consistent with regulatory nutritional requirements while maintaining strict budget control. The Director also plays a critical role in facility management, including space planning, equipment maintenance, and remodeling to support food production efforts.

Further, the Director supports professional development by implementing staff training on management information systems and participates in district bargaining teams and committees. This role demands strong communication skills to engage effectively with district administrators, school principals, staff, and community members. Experience in computerized management information systems relevant to institutional food service is highly encouraged, as is knowledge of federal and state regulations governing school nutrition and accounting procedures.

The Director of Nutrition Services is expected to advance the department's goals through policy development, quality control, and contract negotiation while ensuring compliance with federal and state reimbursement programs such as the National School Lunch Program. This leadership role is essential for maintaining service excellence and ensuring that the nutritional needs of the student population are met efficiently, safely, and within budgetary guidelines, contributing significantly to the district's educational mission and student well-being.