Food Service Worker Supervisors
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a food service worker supervisor, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED; and
- have one to five years of related work experience.
Education after high school
For most food service worker supervisors there are no formal education requirements beyond high school. However, some supervisors have a bachelor's degree.
Many colleges and universities offer four-year programs in restaurant and food service management. In addition, many professional-technical schools and two-year colleges also offer this program. You can earn either a certificate or an associate degree. You will take courses in nutrition, food planning, and food preparation. In addition, you will study accounting, business management, and computer science. Some programs combine classroom study with experience in a restaurant setting.
Work experience
For many employers, work experience in the food service industry is more important than formal education. Many food service worker supervisors have several years of experience working in restaurants.
On-the-job training
Employers may offer training that lasts up to three months.
Supervisors may attend management training programs. This is most likely for those who work for large restaurant chains.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
- Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General
- Culinary Arts/Chef Training
- Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager
- Foodservice Systems Administration/Management
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Computer Fundamentals
- Culinary Arts
- Family and Consumer Sciences
- Food and Nutrition
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
