Lead Food Service Worker - Fairfield School Nutrition

Whitsons Culinary Group•Fairfield, CT

3h•Onsite

About The Position

This is a full-time, non-exempt position where the Lead Food Service Worker will bring their passion to the plate, helping to serve fresh, nutritious meals to students. The role involves leading a fun, energetic kitchen crew in a supportive school environment. It's described as more than just a job, but a chance to lead with heart, feed young minds, and grow a career in food service with a schedule that fits one's life. 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
Prior lead, senior, or PIC experience in a school nutrition or institutional food service setting strongly preferred
Demonstrated ability to direct the work of others in a kitchen or food service environment
Experience with USDA NSLP/SBP program requirements, production records, and temperature log maintenance preferred
Current ServSafe certification required — this is a mandatory requirement for the PIC designation
Local food safety certification required in any jurisdiction of employment
Ability to read and follow approved menus, recipes, yield guides, and production records
Experience with POS systems and cash handling preferred
Ability to complete compliance documentation accurately
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
Maintains current ServSafe certification and serves as the onsite food safety authority during the shift
Effectively coordinates and directs the food service team during the shift
Completes all food preparation, service, compliance documentation, and sanitation responsibilities accurately and on time
Demonstrates precision in portioning, temperature monitoring, production records, and station setup
Communicates clearly with the Chef Manager, food service team members, and school staff
Serves students and school staff in a friendly and professional manner
Takes pride in food quality, presentation, and the overall meal experience
Models Whitsons’ standards of conduct, appearance, and attitude for the food service team

Nice To Haves

Food safety manager training strongly preferred
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
Keep the kitchen running smoothly by organizing cleaning duties and ensuring food safety
Set up hot and cold serving lines, brew coffee, and keep beverage areas stocked
Deliver meals when needed for classrooms, staff, or catered events
Manage POS/cash handling and make sure deposits are accurate
Be a key player on a supportive, mission-driven team that truly cares
Direct the work of others in a kitchen or food service environment
Manage USDA NSLP/SBP program requirements, production records, and temperature log maintenance
Serve as the onsite food safety authority during the shift
Enforce sanitation standards, temperature controls, and compliance documentation
Coordinate and direct the food service team during the shift
Assign tasks, monitor performance, and address operational issues
Complete all food preparation, service, compliance documentation, and sanitation responsibilities accurately and on time
Meet meal service deadlines and operational standards
Demonstrate precision in portioning, temperature monitoring, production records, and station setup
Communicate clearly with the Chef Manager, food service team members, and school staff
Escalate issues appropriately and keep the Manager informed of all significant operational or personnel matters
Serve students and school staff in a friendly and professional manner
Maintain a welcoming and clean service environment at all times
Model Whitsons’ standards of conduct, appearance, and attitude for the food service team
Follow all policies, schedules, and procedures and hold the team to the same standard