DIRECTOR, DINING SERVICES - Brawley Elementary Sch

Compass Group•Brawley, CA

1d•$85,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. This role seeks an experienced Director of Dining Services to support an elementary district of ~3,800 students across six schools (four K–5 and two middle schools) under the NSLP. The position operates on a Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM schedule and is focused on core meal service, with an opportunity to build and expand a catering program. Summer months are lighter and dedicated to planning, program development, and readiness, working closely with a highly engaged client and 40 union frontline employees. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree and K–12 food service experience, bringing proven success in P&L management, menu development, and food program execution. This is a self-starter who effectively leverages Compass tools, demonstrates a strong leadership presence with clear direction, and can drive innovation and program growth. Candidates should be adaptable, solutions-oriented, and committed long-term, with culinary experience preferred.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
K–12 food service experience
Proven success in P&L management
Menu development
Food program execution
Self-starter
Effectively leverages Compass tools
Strong leadership presence with clear direction
Can drive innovation and program growth
Adaptable
Solutions-oriented
Committed long-term

Nice To Haves

Culinary experience preferred
Bachelor's degree in Nutrition/Management/Hospitality/Culinary preferred or equivalent experience.
K12 food service management experience
Five plus years of foodservice management experience.
Strong knowledge of high-volume food production and (catering trends) is preferred.
Previous P&L accountability or contract-managed services experience.
Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
Proficiency in computer skills.
Bilingual - English & Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and inspire our team of 40 union frontline associates.
Drive strategic initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profitability.
Recruit, train, and develop top talent within the organization.
Own the annual budget and control costs optimally.
Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sanitation standards.
Build strong relationships with clients, customers, and associates.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.