School Cafeteria Manager

School Cafeteria Manager

Empower Community School, a public charter school in Alabama, is seeking a dedicated and organized Middle School Cafeteria Manager to oversee daily food service operations. This position ensures students receive nutritious, high-quality meals in compliance with federal child nutrition guidelines and Alabama state regulations. The Cafeteria Manager plays a key role in supporting student wellness while maintaining a safe, efficient, and welcoming dining environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and serve breakfast and lunch meals in compliance with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
• Ensure compliance with the Alabama State Department of Education Child Nutrition Program requirements.
• Maintain accurate production records and meal counts in accordance with federal reimbursement standards.
• Accommodate documented special dietary needs and food allergies.
• Ensure adherence to food safety standards established by the Alabama Department of Public Health.
• Maintain Serv Safe (or equivalent) Food Protection Manager certification.
• Monitor food temperatures, sanitation logs, and storage procedures daily.
• Prepare for health inspections and audits.
• Supervise, schedule, and evaluate cafeteria staff.
• Provide training on food safety, customer service, and operational procedures.
• Promote a positive, student-centered culture aligned with the school's mission.
• Manage food and supply ordering within an allocated budget.
• Maintain inventory records and minimize waste.
• Oversee point-of-sale systems, daily deposits, and required financial reporting.
• Foster a respectful, efficient dining atmosphere.
• Support the Empower's wellness initiatives and nutrition education efforts.
• Communicate professionally with students, families, and staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Service Management, Nutrition, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 2–3 years of food service experience; institutional or school nutrition experience preferred; supervisory experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of USDA National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) requirements.
• Current Serv Safe Food Protection Manager certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with basic computer systems and meal tracking software.
• Must meet background clearance requirements as specified by Alabama State Department of Education and Alabama state statutes.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 30-50 pounds.
• Comfortable working in a commercial kitchen environment with exposure to heat and noise.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Participation in the Teachers' Retirement System of Alabama (if applicable).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Professional development opportunities.

About Empower Schools of Alabama

As a public charter school in Alabama, Empower Schools of Alabama operates with increased flexibility and accountability while maintaining compliance with state and federal education and nutrition standards. We are committed to academic excellence, student wellness, and a supportive school culture.

What We Believe at Empower

• All students can learn and deserve access to high-quality school experiences
• Every child deserves to be seen, supported, and challenged
• Social-emotional development is essential to the overall student success
• Collaboration with families and community is critical

Equal Opportunity Employment

Empower Schools of Alabama considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, marital status, veteran or military status, the presence of a medical condition, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Non-Discrimination Statement

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination and as required by law, Empower Schools of Alabama does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, disability, age, or any other basis prohibited by law, in providing education services, activities, and programs.