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GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Responsible for assisting in the implementation of food services within a Head Start program serving children ages 0–5. Responsibilities include preparing attractive, nutritious USDA-approved meals; maintaining the kitchen clean and sanitary in accordance with Health Department regulations; and ensuring adequate food inventory, supplies, and proper documentation for food service operations.

TASKS AND ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

+ Prepare nutritious meals that consider children’s cultural backgrounds and individual nutritional needs.

+ Understand and apply USDA guidelines, including age-appropriate portion sizes, when preparing meals.

+ Strictly adhere to all health, safety, food handling, and sanitation standards before, during, and after meal preparation.

+ Follow the established menu and make adjustments when necessary due to availability of items or individual child needs.

+ Prepare assigned menu items and participate in family-style meals with children, volunteers, and staff.

+ Collaborate with the Cook to monitor family-style dining in classrooms and document as required.

+ Maintain food service records and reports as directed by the supervisor.

+ Conduct weekly inventory of food and supplies.

+ Complete weekly food and supply order sheets and submit them to Headquarters.

+ Verify accuracy and quality of food deliveries; report missing items or quality issues to Headquarters.

+ Store all food and supplies appropriately, labeling cans, boxes, and bags, and following the FIFO (First In, First Out) method.

+ Monitor and maintain proper food temperatures during preparation and storage.

+ Monitor and record temperatures of all refrigerators and freezers.

+ Ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchen materials, equipment, and supplies.

+ Maintain an updated list of food allergies and dietary concerns; prepare alternate meals for children as needed.

+ Assist with distributing food to classrooms and collecting dirty dishes after meals.

+ Participate in staff meetings, conferences, trainings, and workshops as assigned.

+ Maintain confidentiality regarding staff and family information.

+ Fulfill responsibilities as a mandated reporter in accordance with Child Abuse and Neglect Policy.

+ Perform other work-related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

+ Maintain regular attendance to ensure consistency of services.

+ Contribute positively and productively as a member of the team.

+ Demonstrate commitment to the mission, values, and policies of the organization.

+ Participate in required meetings, events, and trainings.

+ Perform any and all additional duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

+ High School Diploma or equivalent.

+ ServSafe Certification, or the ability to obtain certification within 3 months of hire.

+ Physical examination and background checks required.

+ Ability to travel locally or long-distance up to 10% of the time for work-related functions.

+ Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

+ Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

+ Experience purchasing and preparing culturally diverse foods for groups.

+ Knowledge of early childhood nutrition.

+ Strong verbal and written communication skills.

+ Computer literacy, including MS Office applications and basic data entry/navigation.

+ Must be honest, dependable, and able to meet deadlines.

+ Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented describes the general nature and level of work expected for this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or objectives required of employees assigned to this role.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status..