Child Nutrition Director

Child Nutrition Director

The Child Nutrition Director is responsible for the administration, supervision, and operation of the Monticello School District's Child Nutrition Program in compliance with all applicable federal, state, county, and district regulations. The Director ensures the delivery of nutritionally balanced meals, fiscal accountability, food safety, and efficient program operations.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required. Must meet all Arkansas Department of Education and USDA Child Nutrition Program professional standards for directors. Knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies governing school nutrition programs. Demonstrated ability to supervise personnel and manage district-wide food service operations. Proficiency in Child Nutrition software systems, including Point-of-Sale (POS), E-School, Cognos reporting, and menu planning software. Ability to complete required annual USDA professional standards training hours.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Administration & Compliance

• Administer and manage the district's Child Nutrition Program in accordance with USDA regulations, ADE rules, and district policies
• Ensure compliance with all federal and state requirements, including National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), Afterschool Snack Program, Summer Food Service Program (as applicable), and other Child Nutrition initiatives
• File accurate and timely monthly reimbursement claims and required reports
• Develop, implement, and maintain the district Child Nutrition management plan
• Apply for and administer Child Nutrition-related grants and funding opportunities

Menu Planning & Nutrition

• Plan and implement a district-wide master menu that meets USDA meal pattern requirements
• Ensure dietary balance, nutritional adequacy, and compliance with federal and state nutrition standards
• Oversee menu planning software and production records

Financial Management

• Maintain responsibility for efficient and economical operation of the Child Nutrition Program
• Analyze financial and operational statements to ensure program fiscal integrity
• Coordinate accounting procedures to ensure proper control and management of money, labor, food, and supplies
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping in accordance with USDA and ADE audit standards
• Prepare, submit, and manage bids in accordance with USDA procurement standards, ADE requirements, and district purchasing policies
• Evaluate food, supply, and chemical bids and make recommendations to the School Board for approval
• Ensure competitive procurement, contract compliance, and proper documentation for audits

Personnel Management

• Supervise, select, assign, train, retain, and evaluate all Child Nutrition employees
• Provide required annual training to Child Nutrition staff in accordance with USDA Professional Standards
• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures for all food service operations

Operations & Food Safety

• Maintain and oversee district-wide Child Nutrition software systems, including POS services, E-School - Cognos reporting, and menu planning software
• Inspect cafeterias and food service sites to ensure cleanliness, food safety, and performance standards
• Coordinate with district operations and maintenance staff to support cafeteria facilities and equipment

Collaboration & Program Support

• Coordinate with campus administrators to schedule and provide meals and snacks for after-school programs, summer programs, and special events
• Attend annual conferences, workshops, and professional development to remain current on Child Nutrition regulations and best practices

Other Duties

• Recommend policies and procedures for the Child Nutrition Department
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in cafeteria and kitchen environments
• Ability to travel between district campuses
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities
• Follow District and building policies and procedures
• Support of District goals
• Perform other duties as assigned

Terms of Employment:

Work year, workdays, salary, and benefits are established in accordance with the provisions of State and District policies.

Evaluation:

Performance of the job will be evaluated at least annually.