Lead Food Service Worker - Alan B. Shepard School Nutrition
Whitsons Culinary Group•Palos Heights, IL
•$18 - $20•Onsite
About The Position
This is a full-time, non-exempt position at Alan B. Shepard School Nutrition. The Lead Food Service Worker will be responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals to students, leading a kitchen crew, and managing daily operations. The role emphasizes making a difference in students' lives through food service, with a schedule that avoids nights, weekends, and major holidays, and includes summers off. The company, Whitsons Culinary Group, focuses on serving nutritious food in schools to help students stay energized and ready to learn.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 1+ year of food service experience
- ServSafe certification (or willingness to get certified)
- Great attitude, reliability, and team spirit
- Ability to speak and read English and follow safety procedures
- Comfortable standing, lifting (up to 40 lbs), and working in hot/cold environments
- Minimum 2–3 years of professional food service experience required
- Demonstrated ability to direct the work of others in a kitchen or food service environment
- Ability to read and follow approved menus, recipes, yield guides, and production records
- Must complete all Whitsons and government-mandated training as required
- ServSafe certification required
- Local food safety certification required in any jurisdiction of employment
- Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and the ability to lead a team with a calm, positive, and accountable approach
- Must be able to speak and read English sufficient to perform job assignments and communicate effectively with school staff, parents, and team members
- Always presents a positive and professional image
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment
- Commitment to food safety, team development, and Whitsons’ mission
Nice To Haves
- Prior lead, senior, or PIC experience in a school nutrition or institutional food service setting strongly preferred
- Experience with USDA NSLP/SBP program requirements, production records, and temperature log maintenance preferred
- Experience with POS systems and cash handling preferred
- A valid driver’s license is preferred
Responsibilities
- Take the lead in preparing and serving meals that meet nutrition and portion guidelines
- Handle daily ordering, receiving, and storage of food, beverages, and supplies
- Organize cleaning duties and ensure food safety to keep the kitchen running smoothly
- Set up hot and cold serving lines, brew coffee, and keep beverage areas stocked
- Deliver meals for classrooms, staff, or catered events when needed
- Manage POS/cash handling and ensure accurate deposits
- Coordinate and direct the food service team during the shift, assigning tasks, monitoring performance, and addressing operational issues
- Enforce sanitation standards, temperature controls, and compliance documentation
- Complete all food preparation, service, compliance documentation, and sanitation responsibilities accurately and on time
- Serve students and school staff in a friendly and professional manner
- Model Whitsons’ standards of conduct, appearance, and attitude for the food service team
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Medical, dental & vision insurance
- Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
- 401K with company match
- Paid time off
- Ongoing training and development
- A positive team environment where your work matters
- Summers Off
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
