Lead Cafeteria Worker

Position Overview

The Lead Cafeteria Worker is responsible for supervising all aspects of food preparation and cafeteria management in a school setting, ensuring compliance with the School Food and Nutrition Policy. This role involves daily engagement with students and young children from diverse backgrounds, promoting fair access to nutritious foods without stigma.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily food preparation and cafeteria services including financial operations.
• Collaborate with School Food Lead and principal to comply with provincial food and nutrition standards.
• Manage procurement of food and supplies from authorized vendors while providing cost-effective substitution options.
• Maintain standards and integrity of School Lunch Program menus.
• Supervise, train, and schedule cafeteria staff and volunteers.
• Serve as the main point of contact for inquiries related to food, equipment, and the School Lunch Program.
• Address equipment and supply needs promptly on a daily basis.
• Continuously assess work processes to enhance service quality and resource efficiency.
• Create a positive, professional work atmosphere, fostering communication and cooperation among staff, students, parents, and school leadership.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety protocols by all staff.
• Deliver food services swiftly, courteously, and respectfully, maintaining confidentiality and dignity for all students.
• Promote cafeteria offerings to students, staff, and families.
• Perform food preparation, order processing, payment handling, kitchen clean-up, and garbage disposal as needed.
• Organize catering services when required.
• Participate in supporting the school recycling program.
• Carry out other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or its equivalent.
• Minimum of three years of relevant experience in food service including leadership and management responsibilities.
• Completion or willingness to complete Basic Food Safety Training as part of the job.
• Knowledge of food allergies and related health conditions.
• Able to perform physically demanding tasks including lifting up to 50 pounds, extended standing and walking, and working in varying temperature conditions.
• Strong communication skills and leadership ability.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively interact with diverse student populations within a fast-paced environment.

Reporting Structure

The Lead Cafeteria Worker reports directly to the School Food Lead and supervises 1-5 cafeteria workers depending on location.

Salary and Classification

This position falls under the Education Entities Non-Union Compensation Framework Band 3, with a salary range between $45,822 and $57,278.

Desired Competencies

• Commitment to food equity and non-discriminatory access to food.
• Dedication to providing superior frontline customer service.
• Understanding and application of principles related to race relations, cultural diversity, human rights, and inclusion.
• Effective communication with various stakeholders including parents, staff, students, and external agencies.
• Team collaboration skills.
• Respect for confidentiality.

Additional Information

Employment is contingent upon a satisfactory Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector and Child Abuse Registry Searches. Accommodation requests for the hiring process can be made upon notification. The organization encourages applications from under-represented groups, including those of African Nova Scotian, African Canadian, African ancestry, and Mi'kmaw/Indigenous backgrounds to promote equitable representation and inclusive educational environments.