6 Careers in Food That Make a Difference

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a professional chef or own a restaurant? Or maybe your childhood dream was to be an ice cream taste-tester, or even inherit a giant chocolate factory.

While we may not hear about them as often, there are countless other careers in food for those who are passionate about cooking, growing, eating, and connecting to one another through food.

In many of these jobs, you can make a real difference for kids, families, or your community—all while leaning into your love of food. Read on to learn about some careers in food that use your passion for a positive impact.

Careers in Food That Make a Difference

Whether you’re an experienced foodie or you’re only beginning to explore careers in food, there are all kinds of ways to work with food for a living. Here are just a few of the careers in food that our FoodCorps members have pursued after their national service. 

School Nutrition Director/Food Service Director: Have you ever wondered how schools decide what goes on the lunch tray? There are lots of people involved in school food, but one of the most crucial is a school nutrition director (or food service director), who oversees school menus, cafeteria operations, and all the other factors that go into feeding hundreds or even thousands of kids. If you’re interested in a career in food and also passionate about education and nutrition, this career path is one way to make a huge impact on kids and families in your community. 

Farm to School Coordinator: It’s no secret that farm-fresh, locally grown food is great for kids. In some schools and districts, a designated staff member coordinates with local farmers and growers to procure local food that’s delicious, nutritious, and doesn’t break the bank. FoodCorps members often support school nutrition teams with this goal, and some have continued to work in schools in a permanent farm to school role. 

Small-Scale Farmer: Farmers work in all parts of the country, from rural to urban communities, pairing their passion for agriculture with knowledge about biology, economics, and business management. Technology like aquaponics and vertical farming make farming possible in more spaces than ever. And farmers don’t have to grow everything—many specialize in just a few kinds of crops or plants. FoodCorps alum LaBria Lane, for example, is a horticulturalist in Michigan beautifying her community with fresh flowers and other plants. 

Nutrition Educator: The lessons kids learn about food when they’re young can shape their relationships with food for the rest of their lives. Schools are increasingly investing in this education, hiring full-time nutrition educators just like they hire math, science, or English teachers. Nutrition educators teach kids about growing, cooking, and choosing all kinds of foods, as well as why those foods are good for our bodies and our environment. 

Registered Dietitian: The food we eat has a profound impact on how we feel. But one size doesn’t fit all, and different people need different types, amounts, and preparations of food to feel their best. A registered dietitian offers guidance on nutrition, movement, and other nourishing habits. For an example of what a dietitian can do, check out our Q&A with Billie Karel, a registered dietitian who specializes in helping families.

Food Policy Professional: What we eat isn’t always up to us. Federal, state, and local policies can affect everything from access to grocery stores, to the equipment in our local school cafeteria, to whether or not we qualify for assistance in affording fresh food. The policy world needs more champions who understand food systems and have a passion for food and nutrition. If this describes you, maybe a career in food policy is in your future. 

Hungry for more careers in food? Learn about how FoodCorps alumni pursue careers in food after their national service.