FOOD UNIT LEAD - $16 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Chartwells K12 is a prominent foodservice provider specializing in school nutrition, dedicated to creating healthier and happier dining experiences for students. With a presence in over 4,300 schools and employing more than 16,000 associates, Chartwells K12 leverages decades of combined expertise in food, education, culinary arts, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability. As part of the Compass Group, a global leader in foodservice management, Chartwells K12 strives to innovate and implement custom dining programs that align with the needs and preferences of the young population it serves. This commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes Chartwells K12 a trusted partner for public institutions, charter schools, and private schools alike.
The role of Food Unit Lead at Chartwells K12 is a full-time position located in Billings Public Schools at 101 North 10th Street West, Suite 2, Billings, Montana. The schedule typically runs from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm with some variation in days, details of which are provided during the interview. The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $16.43 to $18.00, reflecting both the responsibilities and the value Chartwells places on its leadership roles. Furthermore, internal employee referral bonuses are available, encouraging teamwork and employee engagement.
As a Food Unit Lead, the successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating activities within the kitchen and dining services, overseeing food preparation, meal service, and the staff who support these operations. This role demands a strong focus on quality customer service, ensuring that every student and visitor receives a friendly, attentive dining experience. Management of food safety, sanitation standards, and portion control practices is paramount to maintain health and regulatory compliance. The Food Unit Lead also collaborates in menu planning, inventory management, and cash handling, ensuring efficient and accurate business operations.
Training and supervising staff are key components of this leadership role, with the Food Unit Lead expected to assign work, foster a productive and positive workplace, and manage work schedules. The role includes responding promptly to customer complaints and maintaining open communication channels to ensure continuous improvement of the dining service. Additionally, the Food Unit Lead handles administrative duties such as daily, weekly, and monthly reporting on inventory, payroll, and production records.
The company emphasizes a safe and sanitary environment by developing and enforcing sanitation schedules and safety protocols aligned with government regulations and company policies. This position requires hands-on involvement in food service, from ordering supplies to participating in cleaning routines, to uphold the highest standards of hygiene and operational excellence.
Associates at Chartwells K12 benefit from a comprehensive package that includes retirement plans, health and wellness programs, and voluntary benefits such as critical illness insurance and legal services. Full-time employees access additional benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, and commuter benefits, ensuring support not only in the workplace but in their overall well-being.
This position suits candidates with prior kitchen management experience who are eager to lead a dynamic team while contributing to the health and happiness of students. Chartwells K12 values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply and join a company committed to equal opportunity and the continuous development of its associates.
                - High school diploma or equivalent
 - Prior kitchen management experience preferred
 - Ability to provide quality customer service
 - Ability to supervise and train employees
 - Understanding of food safety regulations
 - Ability to manage inventory and cash handling
 - Strong communication skills
 - Availability for full-time schedule from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm
 - Willingness to adhere to sanitation and safety standards
 - Capability to respond effectively to customer complaints