Overview

Category:support
Median Salary:$24,000
Education Required:high-school
Growth Outlook:stable
Student Interaction:direct student

Key Responsibilities

  • Supervise student behavior during lunch
  • Assist with opening containers and packages
  • Monitor allergies and dietary restrictions
  • Clean up spills and maintain cleanliness
  • Manage lunch line flow
  • Handle discipline issues appropriately

A Day in the Life

  • Set up cafeteria for lunch service
  • Monitor multiple lunch periods
  • Assist young students with lunch tasks
  • Supervise cleanup procedures
  • Handle student conflicts
  • Coordinate with custodial staff
  • Communicate with teachers about issues

Education & Certification Path

1
High school diploma
2
Food safety training
3
Experience with children preferred
4
District orientation program

Required Certifications

  • Food handler's permit
  • Background check
  • Basic first aid training

Career Progression

Lunchroom Supervisor → Lead Supervisor
Cafeteria Manager
Classroom Aide
After-School Program Staff

Work Environment

School cafeteria, standing for extended periods, noisy environment

Typical Schedule

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM (part-time)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a lunchroom supervisor make?

Lunchroom supervisors earn between $20,000 and $30,000 per year, with a median salary of $24,000. Because this is typically a part-time position (10 AM to 2 PM during school days), the hourly rate is usually $12-$18 per hour. Some districts offer benefits even for part-time lunch supervisors, especially those who also work as classroom aides.

What are the duties of a lunchroom supervisor?

A lunchroom supervisor sets up the cafeteria for lunch service, monitors student behavior during multiple lunch periods, assists young students with opening containers and lunch tasks, manages the lunch line flow, enforces cafeteria rules, handles student conflicts, monitors food allergies and dietary restrictions, supervises cleanup procedures, and communicates with teachers about any issues that occurred during lunch.