WNESU School Nutrition Director

The School Nutrition Director (SND) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the district’s food service operations, including planning, marketing, and evaluating the school nutrition program to meet the highest standards of nutritional quality, student satisfaction, and educational needs. The SND will ensure that the program adheres to federal and state nutritional guidelines while also fostering a culture that celebrates healthy, local, and sustainable food practices. In partnership with school staff and local agriculture partners, the SND will implement the district’s Farm-to-School model, promoting fresh, seasonal, and sustainably sourced foods while providing students and staff with nourishing, enjoyable meal experiences. The SND applies expertise in food service operations, team management, and budget oversight to direct the comprehensive food service program for the Windham Northeast Supervisory Union (WNESU) in compliance with applicable laws and policies. The position requires strong leadership skills to maintain a collaborative environment with staff, administrators, students, vendors, and local farmers, all while promoting healthy, nutritious, and sustainable school Job Qualifications: ●Experience: ○A minimum of 5 years of experience in food service management, with a focus on sustainability and large-quantity meal preparation. ○Strong background in menu planning, food procurement, staff training and supervision, and ensuring compliance with USDA Child Nutrition Standards. ○Experience with commercial kitchen equipment, procurement, and facility maintenance. ●Education: ○A Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Food and Nutrition, Institutional Management, Business Administration, or a related field. ●Certifications: ○Valid ServeSafe Manager Certification or State/County Food Handlers Permit (to be completed within 3 months of hire). ○School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) Certification preferred. ○Valid Vermont Driver’s License. ●Skills & Abilities: ○Strong leadership and communication skills to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including school administrators, staff, students, parents, and community partners. ○Advanced knowledge of food service operations, sustainable food practices, and USDA Child Nutrition Standards. ○Ability to manage budgets, staffing, and resources effectively while ensuring high-quality meal service. ○Proficiency in food service management software, including point-of-sale systems and back-office applications. ○Expertise in culinary skills, menu development, and food safety practices. ○Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to oversee multiple tasks and meet deadlines Physical Demands: ●Ability to stand, stoop, reach, bend, and manipulate food and equipment. ●Capacity to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds. ●Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with moving equipment and hot surfaces. ●Ability to work around loud noise and in conditions with frequent interruptions. ●Ability to perform tasks requiring dexterity, including cutting, stirring, and preparing food.