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Child Nutrition Program Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Child Nutrition Program Assistant information

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How much do child nutrition program assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for child nutrition program assistant in the United States is $14.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child nutrition program assistant?

A Child Nutrition Program Assistant is a support staff member who helps implement and manage meal programs in schools or childcare settings. Their responsibilities often include assisting with food preparation, serving meals, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring that meals meet nutritional and safety standards. They may also help with inventory, record-keeping, and compliance with state and federal regulations. This role is essential in promoting healthy eating habits among children and ensuring that students receive nutritious meals each day.

What are some common challenges faced by a child nutrition program assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Child Nutrition Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing dietary restrictions, ensuring compliance with federal and state nutrition guidelines, and handling high-volume meal preparation during busy periods. Effective communication with students, families, and school staff is key to addressing individual needs and allergies. Staying organized, maintaining accurate records, and participating in ongoing training can help assistants navigate these challenges and contribute to a healthy, efficient meal service environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child nutrition program assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Nutrition Program Assistant, you need knowledge of nutrition standards, food safety, and meal preparation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant food handler certifications. Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and compliance tracking tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication with students and staff are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, nutritious meal service and efficient program operations, supporting student health and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Child Nutrition Program Assistant vs Child Nutrition Clerk?

AspectChild Nutrition Program AssistantChild Nutrition Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; food service or nutrition certifications often preferredHigh school diploma; basic food service knowledge
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, community nutrition programsSchool offices, food service areas
Employer & Industry UsageSchool districts, government nutrition programsSchool cafeterias, district offices
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Child Nutrition Program Assistant typically has more responsibilities related to meal preparation, program coordination, and nutrition education, requiring some certifications. The Child Nutrition Clerk mainly handles administrative tasks like record-keeping and cashier duties. Both roles support school nutrition services but differ in scope and daily duties.

What cities are hiring for Child Nutrition Program Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Child Nutrition Program Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Child Nutrition Program Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Child Nutrition Program Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Child Nutrition Program Assistant jobs?

For Child Nutrition Program Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Child Nutrition Program Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,513 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Child Nutrition Program Employee (438)

Chelsea, AL • On-site

Memphis Shelby County Schools
Elementary and Secondary Schools

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Memphis Shelby County Schools rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Child Nutrition Program Employee
Qualifications:
  • High school graduate or equivalent (GED).
  • Good physical and emotional health including ability to perform duties described in essential functions. Effective interpersonal communication skills.
  • Pass post offer skills assessment.
  • Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board of Education may find appropriate and acceptable.

Reports to: Child Nutrition Program Manager, Assistant Manager, School Administration
Job Goal: Demonstrates excellent customer service while preparing food that is attractive and nutritious; serves meals in a friendly and efficient manner.
Terms of Employment: 185 days.
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