552294 Tue Aug 26 10:49:18 -0700 2008 3 29 Not About Food 0 3988221 I need some ideas for food related careers that are not a chef, cooking in a restaurant or catering. I'm to far away to go to culinary school. My body is to old to stand on a line to cook. I'd like to do something food related though. Tue Aug 26 10:49:23 -0700 2008 158403 jcattles 1 3988564 i was going to suggest you work as a rep for a food distributor (high end, if you have enough knowledge)-- but i don't know if there is anything in the area where you live. you would work with stores and restaurants as a salesperson, taking orders over the phone, promoting products, etc. lots of people love working in distribution for wine, cheese, spices, imported/local foods, etc. you work with the food, see it, smell it, get it cheap for yourself :) -- but don't have to haul it around in cases, or work evenings, or weekends unless you want to. you get to sit at a desk. these jobs tend to be closer to urban centers where there's lots of food going through & getting purchased. might want to see if there's a good distributor hiring locally to you. do you have any experience in sales or customer service? Tue Aug 26 12:29:09 -0700 2008 3988221 46030 soupkitten 1 3988608 jcattle, a dear friend of mine was looking for a career change a few years back and didn't know where to start. She visited the local culinary high school and asked for some help. She was put in touch with a small food company and began as an order taker. After a few months she moved into the production area and then decided to become a rep at food shows/trade events. Her (2nd) career has really taken off. So, my small bit of advice is to make an appt to see someone in your immediate area who works in culinary education to help you narrow down your options. Good luck! Tue Aug 26 12:40:14 -0700 2008 3988221 36312 HillJ 1 3989739 It's hard to make recommendations without knowing your areas of expertise and professional experience. I've worked many different positions in the food industry and most include long hours, physical demands and lots of standing, including a sales rep for a distributor, operations, training and R & D. Perhaps working in the corporate offices of a franchisor or restaurant group in your current field would be a good jumping off point. Another option might be to get involved in consumer product testing if you have any manufacturers near you. They have you come in and taste new products and get your feedback. You are paid minimally or are paid in sample products, but its fun. Tue Aug 26 19:34:51 -0700 2008 3988221 193831 oldbaycupcake