The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

The Office for Food and Nutrition Programs (FNP) at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) administers programs that contribute to the health and well-being of the Commonwealth’s children by supporting nutritious meal service in schools, child care centers, family day care homes, adult day health centers and summer meal programs.

The Child Nutrition Program Reviewer is responsible for conducting program monitoring activities for all sponsoring organizations in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Child Nutrition Programs (CNPs) including the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), Child Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). Activities include the evaluation of food service program compliance, assessing corrective action, providing guidance on program administration and operations, development of educational programs, and the establishment of relationship with other DESE offices and external agencies.

The selected candidate will perform the following duties:

evaluate food and nutrition programs using USDA and FNP administrative and operational program goals and guidelines, and develop corrective action plans and fiscal action as necessary;

review and assess program integrity through an annual caseload of sponsors that participate in all CNPs;

provide participating schools and community agencies with technical assistance to improve local programs and correct compliance findings, and provide resources and successful strategies to school and community nutrition programs;

develop and maintain positive relationships with CNP sponsors;

assist in developing and conducting workshops for program sponsors to maintain efficient and effective management practices to support the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), Special Milk Program (SMP), Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP);

promote the importance of healthy eating habits and incorporate them into the administration of child nutrition programs and team nutrition activities;

maintain ongoing and regular administrative and operational communication with program sponsors by phone, mail and email;

analyze technical data and nutrient analysis information for school districts; and

collaborate with other DESE offices and external agencies on activities to enhance department goals.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of state and federal child nutrition laws, rules and regulations preferred

Commitment to quality child nutrition in schools and community programs

Knowledge of the program administrative and operational review process of the Child Nutrition Programs.

Excellent phone, verbal, and written communication skills.

Must enjoy working with people.

knowledge of department goals and priorities;

critical thinking and ability to problem solve using technology;

strong oral and written communication skills;

knowledge of department goals and priorities;

proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite 2007: Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and PowerPoint;

excellent interpersonal and group collaboration skills with diverse groups of people;

ability to work on multiple tasks; and

demonstrated ability to participate effectively in professional team efforts.

Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to Dawn.E.DeRoche@mass.gov

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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