Food Service Specialist - IDEA Yukon (26-27)

IDEA Public Schools is a leading network of tuition-free, public Pre-K-12 charter schools dedicated to the mission that every child can go to college. Established in 2000, IDEA Public Schools has expanded from a small single campus with 150 students to a comprehensive multi-state network serving over 80,000 college-bound students across 143 schools in Texas, Florida, Ohio, and more. IDEA is nationally recognized and ranked among top high schools by The Washington Post and U.S. News & World Report, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student success. The organization prides itself on a strong culture and team environment driven by core values centered on integrity, respect, and belonging. Employees are welcomed into a family-oriented atmosphere where collaboration, growth, and accountability to ambitious goals define the work experience. IDEA also emphasizes professional development, holistic support for employees, and fostering a positive impact in the communities it serves.

The Food Service Specialist role at IDEA Public Schools plays a critical part in supporting student wellness and nutrition by ensuring that students receive appropriately portioned, nutritious meals each day. This position is responsible for food preparation including cutting and chopping fruits and vegetables, following standardized recipes, and maintaining kitchen processes consistent with safety and sanitation standards. Additionally, the specialist monitors student behavior during meals, encouraging healthy eating habits such as consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables, and upholding meal-time rules including no sharing of food. This role also involves various cleaning duties to maintain a hygienic kitchen environment, such as sweeping, mopping, wiping tables, washing dishes, and disposing of trash.

Compensation for this hourly position ranges between $15.90 and $18.29 depending on experience level and includes eligibility for performance bonuses based on team and goal attainment. IDEA provides comprehensive benefits covering most premium costs for base medical plans and subsidies for dependents. Employees may qualify for paid family leave, tuition reimbursement up to 50% for qualifying degree programs, employer-paid mental and behavioral health services, and access to dental, vision, disability, and life insurance plans. Additional perks include generous vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development opportunities, and potential relocation allowances.

Ideal candidates for the Food Service Specialist role will demonstrate strong competencies in food handling safety, kitchen production procedures, and operation of kitchen equipment. Physical stamina is essential as the role requires lifting, bending, and moving cafeteria tables as part of a shared cafeteria-gymnasium space. Candidates should have basic math skills and the ability to follow detailed recipes with attention to portion control and quality. Adaptability to changing tasks—such as alternating between serving food and washing dishes—as well as the capacity to accept and act on feedback constructively will foster success in this position. Working within an academic calendar framework, including familiarity with periods of reduced work during school breaks and occasional weekend work, is necessary.

Working at IDEA means joining a mission-driven organization committed to ensuring all students, regardless of background, achieve college readiness and success. The organization values urgency, accountability, entrepreneurial spirit, and teamwork in driving student outcomes. Employees at IDEA are role models professionally and personally, upholding high standards and cultivating an inclusive, respectful work environment. Joining IDEA Public Schools offers an opportunity to be part of a transformative educational movement aimed at changing lives through excellence in education and community support.