Food Service Specialist - IDEA Yukon (26-27)

IDEA Public Schools is a leading network of tuition-free, Pre-K-12 public charter schools committed to providing high-quality education to all students with the mission that every child can succeed in college. Established in 2000, IDEA has experienced robust growth from a modest 150-student school to a multi-state powerhouse, currently serving over 80,000 students across Texas, Florida, and Ohio. Recognized nationally for excellence, IDEA Public Schools consistently rank among the top high schools as reported by The Washington Post and U.S. News & World Report. The organization prides itself on maintaining a legacy of sending 100% of its graduates to college, positioning itself as a transformative force within public education by unlocking opportunities and fostering college readiness for all students.

IDEA Public Schools promotes a vibrant, inclusive culture that emphasizes integrity, respect, and belonging, encouraging its employees to thrive within a supportive environment known as the IDEA Team and Family. This culture is reinforced by the Staff Culture and Belonging Team that actively encourages connection, professional growth, and the upholding of core values that align with IDEA's mission and vision. Employees are empowered to work with urgency, purpose, and an entrepreneurial spirit, which supports continuous improvement and achievement of impactful student outcomes.

The Food Service Specialist role at IDEA Public Schools plays a critical part in supporting the health and well-being of students by ensuring high-quality, nutritious meals are prepared, portioned, and served daily. This position involves a variety of food service and kitchen tasks, including the preparation and cutting of fruits and vegetables, adherence to established kitchen procedures and safety standards, and the monitoring of student behavior during meal periods to encourage healthy eating habits and maintain order. In addition to direct food service duties, this role requires effective kitchen maintenance, including cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dishwashing, and trash disposal to sustain a hygienic and efficient kitchen environment.

This role is hourly with a competitive pay rate ranging from $15.90 for those entering with no experience, to $18.29 for experienced individuals. Eligibility for a performance bonus based on team goals enhances the compensation package further. IDEA benefits extend beyond monetary rewards, including a comprehensive benefits plan that substantially covers employee and dependant medical insurance premiums, paid family leave, tuition reimbursement for continuing education, employer-paid mental and behavioral health services, and a host of other benefits like dental, vision, disability, life insurance, generous vacation time, referral bonuses, and professional development opportunities. A relocation allowance may also be available for this role.

This vital role is suited for individuals passionate about food service and committed to contributing positively to the wellbeing of students in an educational setting. Candidates should have a basic understanding of food safety, recipe execution, and kitchen operations, along with the physical ability to meet the demands of the role such as lifting, bending, and moving cafeteria equipment. The Food Service Specialist must be adaptable, able to take direction and constructive feedback gracefully, and thrive in a dynamic environment that follows an academic calendar with periods of intensified activity during the school year and breaks during holidays.

Joining IDEA Public Schools not only involves a job but a chance to be part of a dedicated team whose work directly impacts the lives and futures of students. Ideal candidates will share IDEA's commitment to educational equity, demonstrate accountability, and show a proactive attitude towards fostering students' success through their role in food service. The role offers growth within an entrepreneurial organization that values impact, teamwork, and resilience.