Special Diet Technician 2, Certified Dietary Manager

Wichita Public Schools (WPS) is a comprehensive education system based in Wichita, Kansas, dedicated to providing exceptional services and support to its community. The district operates numerous schools and support facilities, offering diverse educational and operational programs to hundreds of thousands of students and staff every year. WPS is committed to fostering a positive, safe, and collaborative environment where highly qualified professionals deliver essential services that contribute to the success of students and the broader community. Among its wide range of departments is the Food Production Center, which manages food services across schools, ensuring nutritional standards, safety, and quality are upheld consistently. The district values professionalism, leadership, and teamwork in its employees, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and adherence to policies and standards to maintain its mission and goals.

The Food Service Tech 2 - Special Diets position at Wichita Public Schools plays a critical role within the Food Production Center, primarily focusing on managing the Special Diets department. This full-time, day shift role with a salary range of $18.85 to $20.87 per hour requires a highly organized and knowledgeable professional to oversee the accurate preparation, production, and distribution of specialized meal options for students with specific dietary needs. The Certified Dietary Manager serves as a leader and coordinator, ensuring that all food preparation complies with allergen safety, sanitation standards, and cross-contact prevention. Under the direct supervision of the Specialist Dietitian, the Technician 2 manages staff including cooks and other kitchen employees, schedules food production activities, forecasts quantities of food and supplies, and maintains production and inventory records.

The role requires keen attention to detail in ordering, inventory management, and ensuring the quality and safety of food products. The Technician 2 coordinates delivery schedules, manages equipment maintenance in collaboration with the Dietitian Specialist, and supports the Summer Food Service Program by handling menu planning, coverage, substitute scheduling, and training. Leadership skills are essential as the Technician 2 takes charge during the Specialist Dietitian's absence, handles minor employee discipline and motivation, and fosters a positive, professional work environment.

Additionally, this role demands physical endurance and mental focus to perform tasks such as lifting, bending, and repetitive hand movements often required in a busy food production facility. The Technician 2 must be adept at using various kitchen equipment and technology tools including food processors, ovens, computers, and iPads. Effective communication with district personnel, customers, and vendors is also a crucial component of the job to maintain transparency and provide excellent customer service.

Wichita Public Schools expects all employees to exhibit professionalism, appropriate workplace behavior, punctuality, and proper appearance to represent the district positively. This role offers a stable, full-time career with benefits and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the nutrition services that support student health and safety across the district's schools, highlighting the district's commitment to excellence in public education and community service.