Kitchen Manager - Heritage Middle School

The West Fargo Public School District is an esteemed educational organization committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning and working environment for all. Located in West Fargo, North Dakota, the district serves a diverse student population and prioritizes equity, diversity, and inclusivity in all its employment and educational programs. West Fargo Public Schools is dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities and supporting staff members with comprehensive training, resources, and professional development to ensure ongoing growth and success. The district prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, or other protected legal status, emphasizing a respectful and equitable atmosphere for all employees and learners.

This job opening is for a Middle School Kitchen Manager position at Heritage Middle School, which falls under the Food Services department of the West Fargo Public School District. This is a full-time, ongoing 182-day position that aligns with the 2026-2027 school year, operating Monday through Friday. The salary range is competitive within the educational sector, beginning at $20.25 to $22.65 per hour, depending on experience, following the Classified Salary Schedule for 2026-2027 at pay level B214.

As a Middle School Kitchen Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the school kitchen. This pivotal role focuses on providing leadership, support, and guidance to ensure that food standards, inventory management, food safety compliance, and customer service expectations are meticulously met. The manager will supervise kitchen staff in meal preparation, safety, sanitation, portion control, and point of sale functions. This role requires effective communication with school administration, ongoing training and performance evaluation of food service employees, and proactive maintenance of kitchen facilities. The candidate will also manage food and supply ordering, maintain accurate production and sales records, and participate in promotional food service programs.

The position demands a person with compassion, creativity, and critical thinking skills who can build effective working relationships with learners and staff, foster respectful communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. The Kitchen Manager must maintain composure in high-pressure situations, demonstrate resilience, and take initiative to enhance the overall kitchen and educational environment. Attention to detail, adherence to budgeted staffing levels, and employing district-approved recipes are essential. Physical demands include standing, walking, lifting (up to approximately 30 pounds), and working with kitchen equipment in a moderately noisy setting. Completion of a food safety training course within six months of hire is mandatory, along with a high school diploma or GED and preferably three years of experience in large quantity food preparation. Experience in a school setting is advantageous. The candidate must possess strong verbal and written English communication skills and the ability to maintain confidentiality and punctuality. Supervisory responsibilities include managing members of the food service team and ensuring a smooth, safe, and compliant kitchen environment that supports the nutritional needs of the students and staff at Heritage Middle School.