School Nutrition Manager Trainee Program
About The Position
Hamilton County Schools’ School Nutrition Manager Trainee Program prepares participants for future management opportunities through hands-on kitchen leadership experience and classroom instruction. Trainees learn standards for quality school food production and service in accordance with USDA, State of Tennessee, and local program guidelines. The program accepts two cohorts each year, with interviews conducted in July and December. Selected participants begin training at a later date, with specific dates to be determined. Each trainee is assigned to an experienced Training Manager and completes an 8–12 week program combining weekly classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Successful completion makes trainees eligible to apply for School Nutrition Manager vacancies; it does not guarantee a management position. Pay for internal applicants will be at their current rate. Pay for external applicants will be based on education and experience.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Internal applicants: at least one year in a School Nutrition food service operation, including one month of experience as the primary meat cook and cashiering experience.
- Internal applicants must have a positive reference from their Cafeteria Manager.
- External applicants: at least one year of food service management experience and positive references.
- Passing score on a basic math and reading comprehension test.
- Dependable, team-oriented, and positive attitude.
- Adaptable and open to change.
- Passionate about serving students and committed to learning and growing as a school nutrition professional.
- Must complete the entire program to be eligible for a management position.
Responsibilities
- Lead a school nutrition team.
- Plan daily food production using production records.
- Manage ordering, inventory, and receiving in LINQ.
- Operate point-of-sale and school nutrition software.
- Apply USDA regulations and food safety requirements.
- Build positive relationships with students, staff, and school administrators.
- Develop budgeting, labor management, and forecasting skills.
- Learn through one-on-one mentoring and hands-on training alongside an experienced School Nutrition Manager.
Benefits
- Weekends, evenings, and school breaks off.
- Work schedule aligned with the school calendar.
- Structured hands-on leadership training.
- Weekly classroom instruction.
- Experienced manager mentor.
- Free employee meals during the workday.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
