Food Specialist

SR1 College Preparatory & STEM Academy (SR1 CPSA) is a pioneering educational institution located in Canton, Mississippi. It holds the distinction of being Mississippi's first and only college preparatory and STEM public charter school, known for its high performance and continual growth. SR1 CPSA integrates education, health, and technology initiatives within the Central Mississippi region, fostering a connected ecosystem that supports the holistic development of its students. The school places a significant focus on culinary and agricultural programs, which are designed to nourish not only the students but also their families and the broader community. This is achieved through fresh, seasonal meals, hands-on food education, and an innovative "food as preventive medicine" approach that is deeply rooted in culturally and contextually relevant practices. The school believes in the transformative power of good food, viewing it as more than just sustenance but as a form of opportunity that can change lives and communities.

The role of Culinary & Food Services Specialist at SR1 CPSA is a unique and impactful position that blends culinary expertise with educational leadership. This role invites an individual who views the school kitchen as more than just a place to prepare food, but as a dynamic classroom and a vital community resource. The Culinary & Food Services Specialist is responsible for leading daily meal preparation and nutritional programming for students, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients — many of which are grown by the students themselves. This specialist will create from-scratch Southern meals that not only provide nourishment but also teach valuable life skills about healthy eating and cooking.

Beyond the kitchen, the specialist will play a crucial role in the school's educational mission by hosting cooking demonstrations, nutrition workshops, and after-school events that engage students, families, and staff. Collaborating closely with the agriculture team, the specialist will help bring farm-fresh produce directly to the dining table and develop menus that align with USDA nutrition guidelines while reflecting the preferences of the student community. The role requires upholding the highest standards of food safety and cleanliness, including obtaining and maintaining ServSafe certification. Moreover, the specialist will champion the school's nutrition-education initiatives, mentor student interns and volunteers interested in culinary or agricultural careers, and support special events and summer programs.

This position is ideal for early-career chefs, recent culinary graduates, or ambitious interns who are passionate about innovation, community wellness, and education. The Culinary & Food Services Specialist at SR1 CPSA will not only be a chef but also an educator and community leader, helping to shape the future of food and health in Central Mississippi. The role offers a competitive salary range from $45,000 to $85,000 per year, commensurate with experience, and can be part-time or full-time, providing flexibility for the right candidate. It is a rare opportunity to work in an environment that values creativity, purpose-driven work, and the possibility to make a lasting impact on how a community eats, learns, and lives.