FOOD SERVICE MANAGER TRAINEE (Initial Application)

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is a prominent educational institution dedicated to providing quality education and supportive services to students across the Milwaukee area. As one of the largest school districts in Wisconsin, MPS is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable learning environment for all students and staff members. Their Food Service Department plays a vital role in ensuring that students have access to nutritious and well-prepared meals throughout the school day, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the student community. Through its comprehensive approach, MPS focuses on operational excellence and compliance with all relevant food safety and nutrition standards.

The Food Service Manager Trainee role at Milwaukee Public Schools is an on-the-job training position designed to develop future leaders in school kitchen management. This role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in advancing their careers in food service management within an educational setting. The trainee will work closely with experienced Food Service Managers to learn the specifics of managing school kitchen operations, including food preparation, inventory management, compliance with regulatory standards, and supervising staff. The position requires no night, weekend, or holiday work, making it highly suitable for those seeking a balanced work schedule.

Beyond training, this role assumes responsibility for the efficient operation of the school kitchen and may require stepping in to replace absent managers either on a short-term or long-term basis. Given the nature of the school district's multiple locations, the position may involve travel between sites. The salary range for this position is competitive, between $18.83 and $24.91 per hour, reflecting the trainee's growing responsibilities and skill development during the training period.

As a Food Service Manager Trainee, candidates will be immersed in hands-on learning experiences that include supervising food service assistants, managing meal preparation and service, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness and food safety standards. The role emphasizes customer service and teamwork while aligning closely with the Milwaukee Public Schools Strategic Plan to support student health and nutrition goals.

Successful candidates will undergo a thorough selection process that may include evaluations of education and experience, written, oral, or performance-based assessments, and background checks, including drug and alcohol testing and credential verification. Applicants are expected to attach a current resume to their application and demonstrate an ability to meet the physical demands of the position, such as lifting up to 35 pounds and working in a dynamic kitchen environment. While ServSafe Certification is preferred, it is required to be obtained within six months of employment and maintained thereafter.

This role presents a unique career pathway into school food service management, combining the principles of culinary arts, nutrition, team leadership, and regulatory compliance within a public education framework. Milwaukee Public Schools promotes equal employment opportunities and actively supports diversity, inclusion, and accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities, ensuring a supportive work environment for all employees.