School canteen manager

What does a school cafeteria manager do? – tasks and work environment

A school cafeteria manager is responsible for leading and coordinating work in the school’s large kitchen. Tasks include menu planning, raw material purchasing, staff management, and quality control of food and hygiene. The role also involves administrative work, budget follow-up, and contact with suppliers. The work environment is often intense and the pace can be high, especially during lunch hours. At the same time, the profession is characterized by clear routines and a strong sense of teamwork among kitchen staff.

Salary development over time

The salary for a school cafeteria manager has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,000 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased slightly to 39 900 SEK. In 2024, the average salary has risen to 41 600 SEK, corresponding to a salary increase of about 4% compared to the previous year. This increase can partly be explained by a greater focus on competence and leadership in large-scale catering, as well as the overall salary trend in the public sector. The demand for experienced managers and increased requirements for specialized skills, such as allergy management and special diets, have also positively impacted salaries.

School cafeteria manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,400 SEK/month (men), 36,600 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 45,400 SEK/month (men), 43,200 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn an average of 42 400 SEK/month, no specific data for men's average salary
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a school cafeteria manager, a qualification in restaurant or large-scale catering is usually required, often at the high school level with a focus on kitchen and service. Many employers also seek post-secondary courses or training in leadership and economics, especially if the role involves personnel responsibility and budget work. Practical experience in large-scale catering and team management is often more meritorious and can sometimes outweigh formal education.

• High school education: Restaurant and Food Service Program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Courses in nutrition, leadership, and food management
• Certifications: Hygiene training and allergy competence
• Internship: Several weeks of practical training in large-scale catering or restaurants during education
• Prerequisites: Experience in kitchen work and leadership is highly meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

School cafeteria managers are often employed within the public sector, which provides security through collective agreements, occupational pensions, paid vacations, and health insurance. Other common benefits may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skill development and further training in leadership or special diets.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a school cafeteria manager varies between regions and school authorities. In larger cities, there may be more applicants per position, while in smaller towns there can sometimes be a shortage of qualified candidates. Challenges in the profession often involve balancing quality requirements with financial constraints and high work tempo, especially with large student populations. Changing dietary preferences, increased demands for special diets, and stricter food handling regulations also require high competence and flexibility. Leadership and teamwork skills are crucial for success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a school cafeteria manager

To succeed as a school cafeteria manager, it’s good to combine organizational skills with a genuine interest in cooking and nutrition. Good collaboration skills facilitate work management and promote a positive work environment in the kitchen. It’s also wise to develop communication abilities, as the role involves contact with staff, students, and suppliers. Being solution-oriented and flexible helps with quick changes and unexpected challenges. Leadership and initiative are important for driving change and quality improvement projects. Experience in kitchen work or other leadership roles in the service industry provides a solid foundation. Finally, staying updated on allergies, special diets, and new industry regulations is advantageous.

Key facts about school cafeteria managers

• Educational level: High school or post-secondary education in restaurant/large-scale catering
• Typical employment: Full-time, daytime within the public sector
• Demand: 123 registered job openings in the profession in Sweden
• Special skills: Hygiene, special diets, and leadership
• Work environment: Fast-paced large-scale catering with clear routines

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a school cafeteria manager, there are opportunities to advance to overarching leadership roles, such as kitchen manager within larger school organizations or responsibility for multiple units. Some choose to further their education in food economics, nutrition, or public procurement, which can open doors to consulting roles or training assignments. The Employment Service assesses that demand for school cafeteria managers remains stable, especially given increased requirements for quality and special diets in schools. The combination of leadership skills and industry knowledge is particularly sought after, and those with additional education have good long-term opportunities in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about school cafeteria managers

• What does a school cafeteria manager earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, but it may vary depending on experience and education.
• How to become a school cafeteria manager?
  - Most commonly, a high school diploma in restaurant or large-scale catering and experience in kitchen work and team leadership.
• What are the job responsibilities of a school cafeteria manager?
  - Menu planning, purchasing, staff management, quality control, and administration.
• Is there a difference in salary between men and women?
  - Women earn an average of 42 400 SEK, with no specific data for men's average salary.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a school cafeteria manager?
  - Highest salary: 45,400 SEK (men), 43,200 SEK (women). Lowest salary: 36,400 SEK (men), 36,600 SEK (women).
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is good, with 123 registered job openings in the profession.
• What benefits are common?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for further training.