Operations Manager - Texas School Nutrition

Whitsons Culinary Group • DeSoto, TX

3h • Onsite

About The Position

Are you a seasoned food service professional who thrives on supporting teams, ensuring compliance, and driving operational excellence? Join Whitsons as an Operations Manager and help elevate school nutrition programs across our districts—fueling student success one meal at a time. At Whitsons Culinary Group, we believe that school meals are more than just food—they’re a foundation for learning and success. As an Operations Manager, you’ll play a vital role in supporting our mission to deliver nutritious, high-quality meals across the districts we serve. Be a champion for school nutrition—and a catalyst for positive change. Apply today and bring your leadership to the next level with Whitsons – Enhancing Life One Meal at a Time™.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management, Nutrition, Culinary Arts, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree or equivalent with any academic major AND a state recognized certificate in food and nutrition, food service management, dietetics, family and consumer sciences, nutrition education, culinary arts, or business, with at least one year of management experience (preferably in school nutrition).
• 10 years' experience in Food Service Management.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in high volume urban K-12 programs.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire teams and build strong relationships.
• Deep knowledge of USDA school meal guidelines, state regulations, and food safety practices.
• ServSafe certification.
• Local food safety certification if required in jurisdiction of employment.
• Knowledgeable of all local ordinances.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to quickly learn new systems and tools.
• Ability to communicate electronically through use of email and other similar computer platforms.
• Ability to effectively write, present and transfer ideas and information.
• Ability to act in the best interest of the customer, both internal and external.
• Ability to create new ideas, processes or products which, when implemented, lead to positive, effective change.
• Ability to apply strategic thinking, prioritization and decision-making to drive results.
• Ability to effectively assess, select, develop and empower individuals and teams.
• Must be willing to travel frequently to Whitsons’ operating sites.
• Strong interest in school nutrition program development.
• Culinary background and a passion and interest in food.
• Working knowledge of cooking procedures and recipe adherence and scaling.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• SNS certification highly preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Master's degree or willingness to work toward master's degree preferred.
• School Nutrition Specialist Certification preferred.
• Bilingual Spanish is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational support to General Managers and District Managers across multiple school districts.
• Step in as acting General Manager when needed to ensure seamless operations.
• Monitor and support compliance with all USDA, state, and local regulations related to NSLP, SBP, and food safety.
• Assist in budget development, financial forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Oversee staff training, scheduling, and performance management to ensure team excellence.
• Support new account openings and serve as a key player in onboarding processes.
• Conduct regular site visits (80% travel) to assess quality, safety, compliance, and team support needs.
• Collaborate with wellness and nutrition committees and participate in district meetings and community events.

Benefits

• Competitive salary + performance bonus potential
• Work that makes a difference in students' lives
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid holidays and PTO
• 401K with company match
• Professional growth opportunities and supportive leadership
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, generous PTO, and paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees