Kitchen Manager - Elementary

Coyote Creek Elementary is a dedicated educational institution committed to fostering a supportive and productive learning environment for children. The school operates within the Douglas County School District (DCSD), which emphasizes quality education and community involvement. DCSD is known for its comprehensive educational programs and dedication to excellence, not just academically but also in supporting the overall well-being of students and staff. The district prioritizes safety, community engagement, and continuous improvement, making it a reputable place to work and grow.

The role of Kitchen Manager - Elementary at Coyote Creek Elementary is a pivotal position within the school’s Nutrition Services department. This role is responsible for the comprehensive management of the school kitchen, encompassing food preparation, service, staff supervision, and training. The Kitchen Manager not only ensures the smooth operation of kitchen functions but also plays a vital role in promoting a positive atmosphere that aligns with community values. This position requires strong leadership to manage kitchen operations in full compliance with school district policies and the Colorado Department of Education regulations.

The Kitchen Manager will maintain accurate financial records related to food services, manage food costs effectively to meet profit and loss targets, and oversee all cash handling activities at the site. With a keen focus on community relations, the manager will engage with Nutrition Services staff, school personnel, students, and parents to foster a cooperative spirit and excellent customer service.

Training and development of kitchen staff are key responsibilities, including creating new training materials, delivering safety and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) training, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. The manager supervises up to four kitchen assistants, promoting staff growth through cross-training and skill development. Maintaining sanitation and safety standards is paramount, as is adhering to food safety and preparation best practices meant to ensure the health and safety of students.

This role demands excellent organizational and time management skills as the manager also oversees inventory control, order placement, and payroll management. The Kitchen Manager must handle employee relations discreetly, addressing performance issues appropriately and maintaining open communication with supervisors about operational concerns. Additionally, the position requires completion of mandatory USDA professional standards training and ensures that all kitchen staff meet their annual training requirements.

Position details include a full-time status working 40 hours per week with an annual schedule of 172 workdays. The salary range for this role is competitive, from $21.17 to $32.65 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits are comprehensive, including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, and paid sick and personal leave, offering a well-rounded employment package.

This position is regular, not seasonal or temporary, and is crucial for maintaining the Nutrition Services function at Coyote Creek Elementary. The successful candidate will be someone with a passion for food service management, leadership capabilities, a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, and dedication to fostering positive community connections within the school environment.