Elementary Kitchen Manager - Willow Park Elementary

West Fargo Public School District, located in North Dakota, is a reputable educational institution dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for students, staff, and the community. The district values diversity, equity, and inclusivity in all facets of its operations and strives to provide exceptional educational experiences. They are committed to maintaining an environment free from discrimination and harassment in all employment and educational programs, activities, and facilities. This ethos reflects in their hiring practices and workplace culture.

The position open in the district is for an Elementary Kitchen Manager at Willow Park Elementary School within the Food Services Department. This crucial role is a full-time, ongoing 182-day position starting in the 2026-2027 school year, scheduled from Monday to Friday. The salary range for this position begins at $20.25 to $22.65 per hour, based on experience, following the Classified Salary Schedule 2026-2027 at B214. Reporting directly to the Kitchen Manager for the assigned location, the Elementary Kitchen Manager plays a pivotal role in managing the school kitchen. The primary responsibility involves providing leadership, support, and guidance to food service employees to ensure that food quality standards, inventory management, and food safety guidelines are meticulously met.

The role demands effective collaboration and communication skills as the manager will oversee meal preparation and service, develop positive working relationships with students and staff, and maintain open communication with school administrators. Training and supervising kitchen staff, evaluating their performance, and ensuring compliance with safety, sanitation, portion control, and quality standards are integral to this position. The manager will also be tasked with inventory management, ensuring proper food rotation, submitting weekly food and supply orders, and maintaining accurate production records.

Additionally, the position requires the ability to handle multiple demands and work in a dynamic environment where physical activity such as standing, walking, bending, lifting (up to 30 pounds), and working under moderate to loud noise levels is routine. The Elementary Kitchen Manager is expected to foster a respectful and positive work environment by understanding cultural and global issues, resolving conflicts constructively, and encouraging creative solutions to improve the experience of both learners and staff.

This role is not just about kitchen management; it encompasses key attributes such as resilience, responsibility, critical thinking, and reflection. The successful candidate will participate in regular meetings, trainings, and workshops to stay informed of best practices and opportunities for growth. The position allows for supervision of other food service workers and requires adherence to confidentiality, discretion, and good judgment. Candidates with prior experience in large quantity food preparation and school food service settings will find this role aligns well with their skills and aspirations. Food safety training course completion is mandatory within six months of hire.

Joining the West Fargo Public School District as an Elementary Kitchen Manager offers a chance to contribute meaningfully to the educational community, promote student well-being through nutrition, and be part of a team committed to excellence and inclusivity. Applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting a complete application package including a resume and references by the closing date, 05/01/2026.