Food Service Manager - CHILDCARE CENTER

Job Title: Meals Operations Manager {M.O.M}

Location: It Takes A Village 24hr Childcare Center

Job Type: Part Time (FT option)

Job Summary:

The Meals Operations Manager will oversee all aspects of meal planning, preparation, and delivery for the children in our care, ages 8 weeks to 12 years old. This individual will ensure that the center complies with all nutrition and food safety standards under the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), providing balanced, nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. The role also involves managing kitchen staff, maintaining inventory, and coordinating meal schedules to support the children’s daily routines.

Key Responsibilities:

Meal Planning & Preparation:

• Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals in compliance with CACFP (Food Program) guidelines and state/local health regulations.

• Develop weekly and monthly menus that meet the dietary needs of children at varying developmental stages (infants, toddlers, preschool, and school-age children).

• Ensure meals are well-balanced, safe, and culturally appropriate.

• CACFP (Food Program) Compliance:

• Maintain accurate documentation of meal counts, menus, and food receipts for CACFP (Food Program) compliance.

• Ensure meals meet CACFP (Food Program) nutritional requirements and submit appropriate paperwork for reimbursement.

Staff Management:

• Assist with training kitchen staff and other meal service employees.

• Ensure staff maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment and adhere to food safety practices, including sanitation and hygiene protocols.

Inventory & Ordering:

• Manage food inventory, ensuring that supplies are ordered on time and that stock levels are maintained without waste.

• Work with vendors and suppliers to ensure quality products are received and in compliance with center standards.

• Implement a system for food storage and organization to reduce spoilage and waste.

Health & Safety Compliance:

• Ensure all food handling, preparation, and storage practices follow local health department regulations.

• Conduct regular food safety audits and ensure proper training for all kitchen and meal service staff.

• Oversee the management of allergies and special dietary needs, ensuring accommodations are made as required.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Collaborate with the center’s educational and care teams to align meal times with children’s routines and activities.

• Maintain open lines of communication with parents and guardians regarding meal planning, food allergies, and dietary preferences.

• Provide occasional reports on meal program performance, nutrition, and CACFP (Food Program) compliance.

Budget & Financial Management:

• Assist in developing and managing the meal program’s budget.

• Ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising food quality or safety standards.

Qualifications:

• Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• Food service, preferably in a childcare or institutional setting.

• Familiarity with CACFP (Food Program) regulations and food safety standards (ServSafe certification is a plus).

• Worked with children

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Knowledge of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and pediatric nutrition.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform tasks in a kitchen environment.

Work Environment:

This position is based in the childcare center’s kitchen and dining areas. Occasional outdoor activities may be required to assist in meal service during outdoor play or special events.

This role is essential to ensuring the health and well-being of the children we serve. If you are passionate about providing nutritious meals to children in a fun and nurturing environment, we encourage you to apply.

Application Process:

If you’re interested in joining our team as a M.O.M (Meals Operations Manager), please apply by sending your resume and cover letter to:

We’re excited to meet candidates who are passionate about creating nutritious, balanced meals for children and ensuring a positive, safe, and fun dining experience for all!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid training
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Syracuse, NY 13204 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Syracuse, NY 13204: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17