School Chef

Company Overview

Pineland Learning Center is an NJDOE-approved private school for students with disabilities, serving children with behavioral and learning disabilities in grades K-12 since 1980.

We are dedicated to educating and empowering students in a structured, safe, and supportive environment. Our mission is to foster independence and growth, transforming our students into self-reliant lifelong learners ready to face the challenges of a dynamic global society.

At Pineland Learning Center, we believe:

• In fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility.
• In knowing and understanding our students.
• That teaching to the whole child is critical for success.

Job Summary

The School Chef plays a key role in Pineland’s nutrition program, working with other kitchen staff to prepare and serve high-quality, well-balanced meals that meet USDA and NJDOE guidelines. In partnership with the school’s Leadership Team, the School Chef promotes the development of healthy nutrition habits for students. This role assists with all aspects of food preparation, service, and kitchen operations while fostering a positive and inclusive dining environment for students.

The School Chef, as part of the kitchen staff, has responsibility for ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, inventory management, and minimizing food waste. This position requires strong teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail to ensure smooth daily kitchen operations. There is opportunity for growth within the role, with the potential for responsibilities expanding based on the candidate’s strengths, experience, and professional development.

Employment Terms & Schedule

Compensation

Annual salary range: $45,000 - $60,000 based on experience and qualifications for the 10-months of the regular school year. The Extended School year Program (ESY) provides an opportunity for additional compensation. ESY employment is offered under a separate employment agreement based on program needs.

Benefits

Eligible to enroll in benefits plans (health, dental, vision, retirement plan, etc.) eligible to enroll in benefits, effective on the first of the month following 60 days of employment. Despite the 10-month work schedule, benefits coverage is provided for the full 12 months of the year.

Paid leave: 7 sick days annually, holidays, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave.

Hours

• 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Schedule

• Regular School Year
• This is a 10-month position, aligned with the school year (generally late August through mid-June).
• Extended School Year (ESY)
• The School Chef is required to work part or all of the Extended School Year Program, which runs for 31 days over July and August.

Additional Work Requirements

• Occasionally, this position may require additional hours on non-school days (such as student breaks) to complete essential tasks, including receiving deliveries and ensuring continuity of kitchen operations.

Position Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Assist in the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals following USDA nutritional guidelines and portion requirements.
• Work alongside kitchen staff to ensure meals meet dietary needs and student preferences.
• Assist with meal service and distribution, maintaining a positive and welcoming cafeteria environment.
• Follow proper food safety and sanitation procedures to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
• Collaborate with other kitchen staff in planning for special events and special dietary needs

Menu & Nutrition Support

• Support the implementation of nutritious and appealing menus that align with USDA and NJDOE guidelines.
• Encourage students to try new, healthy food options through positive engagement.
• Assist with adjustments to menus based on student feedback and seasonal ingredient availability.

Operations, Compliance & Safety

• Take an active role in maintaining compliance with all food safety regulations, OSHA requirements, and school policies to ensure a safe kitchen environment.
• Assist with kitchen inspections, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
• Maintain proactive communication with school leadership and staff.

Inventory, Ordering & Cost Control

• Assist with ordering food and kitchen supplies, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliable supply.
• Monitor inventory levels and control food costs through efficient ordering, menu planning, portion control, and waste reduction.
• Help maintain accurate financial and inventory records.

Equipment Maintenance & Coordination

• Ensure cafeteria and kitchen equipment is maintained and in safe working condition.
• Conduct routine inspections and coordinate necessary repairs with the maintenance department or external service providers.
• Track service history and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Collaboration & Student Engagement

• Work closely with kitchen staff, school leadership, and instructional staff to support a positive meal experience and encourage student participation in the school’s nutrition program.
• Support school-wide initiatives, including nutrition education and wellness programs.
• Foster a team-oriented and collaborative work environment within the kitchen.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Technical & Culinary Skills

• Knowledge of USDA school meal requirements, portion control, and nutrition guidelines.
• Experience in menu planning, food preparation, and meal service in a high-volume kitchen environment.
• Understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and safe meal accommodations.
• Familiarity with applicable OSHA regulations, food service equipment, and kitchen safety procedures.

Teamwork, Communication & Adaptability

• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with other kitchen staff and school leadership, cultivating a positive and service-oriented approach with students and staff.
• Problem-solving ability and flexibility to adapt to to menu changes, student needs, and program updates.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage daily operations while planning for future improvements.

Technology & Compliance

• Experience with inventory management, meal tracking, and reporting systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Forms) and online ordering platforms.
• Familiarity with NJDOE menu approval processes (preferred), food safety and sanitation regulations (required).

Education & Experience

• 3 years of experience in a high-volume food service setting (school or institutional kitchen experience preferred).
• Degree or coursework in Culinary Arts, Nutrition, or Food Service Management (preferred) or equivalent experience.
• ServSafe certification or the ability to obtain it is required.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation laws.
• Knowledge of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act and relevant school nutrition policies and NJDOE menu approval process (preferred).

Additional Requirements

• Valid New Jersey Driver’s License.
• Ability to pass NJDOE required employment prerequisites: Criminal History Review, Sexual Misconduct/Child Abuse Disclosure, and Tuberculin testing.
• Physical ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 35 lbs., and work in hot/cold kitchen environments.

Why Pineland?

At Pineland, we offer more than just a job – we offer a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference.

If you are a team-player with a commitment to improving student nutrition, we invite you to apply today and join the Pineland Family!

Pineland Learning Center, Inc. is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in accordance with N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Pineland Learning Center, Inc., to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or candidate with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship for the employer. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Becca Remmey in Human Resources, 856-378-5020 x 401, Becca.Remmey@pinelandschool.org.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000 - $60,000