E/HS/ECEAP Food Service Assistant Sub

POSITION SUMMARY:

Assists in preparing and distributing meals and snacks to classrooms in accordance with Child and Adult Care Food Program regulations (CACFP) or other applicable federal, state, and local regulations guidelines. Assists the Food Service Specialist in kitchen and food service operations. Has access to protected healthcare information (PHI) or confidential identifiable information (CII), both paper and electronic, as necessary, to perform related job duties and responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Food Preparation

• Assists in preparation of meals and snacks for the childcare center, working under the direction of the Food Service Specialist

Food Service

• Assists in the distribution of meals & snacks to classrooms
• Help assists classroom employee in family-style meal service to ensure that each child will receive portions to meet CACFP meal pattern requirements
• Help assist children in dishing up food following the family-style service pattern

Sanitation and Safety

• Prepare and maintain a routine cleaning schedule that complies with requirements as specified under local, state, and federal laws/regulations
• Must be able to follow proper techniques when washing and sanitizing cooking utensils and dishes
• Good personal hygiene and grooming will be demonstrated including dress, appearance, and personal habits
• Proper hand-washing procedures will be utilized
• Safe and sanitary conditions will be maintained when storing, preparing, and serving food
• All safety hazards will be reported to the center management
• Refrigerator, freezer, and dry storage areas will be inspected regularly to maintain safe and sanitary food and supply storage
• Food will be maintained at correct temperatures during food preparation and food service to meet sanitation requirements

Communication and Management

• Must have excellent communication skills and work cooperatively with center employee and management
• Help assist in creating and maintaining an atmosphere of warmth and personal interest for the children in the center
• Attend job related training classes and workshops and follow supervisor’s instructions in preparing and serving food
• Food and nutrition education will be promoted through positive comments to center employees, parents, and children
• Ability to utilize problem solving skills to appropriately maintain an efficient food production system

Record Keeping

• Assist the Food Service Specialist in maintaining food production records and meal count sheets according to local, state and federal regulations

Performance Standards

• Performance standards for Head Start and CACFP will be met in regard to food preparation, menu planning, and food service and nutrition education

Other Duties as Assigned

• Perform other duties as assigned by center management when appropriate and needed

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to assist Food Service Specialist in meal & snack preparation
• Must possess strong human relations skills to communicate and work effectively within a culturally diverse work environment and community
• Proficient in MS Office and other software used by the agency and/or program
• Ability to embrace and support Akin’s commitment to fostering an inclusive organization

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions
• Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• May require handling of objects that can weigh up to 50 lbs.
• Stand for long periods of time
• Repeat the same movements
• Walk or run for long periods of time
• Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls
• Bend or twist body

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma, GED or proof of completion of high school education
• Experience working with families from culturally diverse low-income populations
• Proof of physical exam (updated every three years), including a one step Mantoux TB skin test prior to start of employment. For those who have previously tested positive, documented proof of treatment from a doctor or a negative chest x-ray must be provided
• Completion of Akin and DCYF criminal history background check, including registry with MERIT to include fingerprinting

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Understanding and application of CACFP, USDA, and other state and local demonstrated ability to work well as a member of a team
• Food Handers Permit
• CPR and First Aid Certification

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS:

The salary range for this position is $16.47- $21.43. The starting salary range for this position is $16.47- $17.71 DOE for external candidates.

Employees (and their families) are covered by medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are able to enroll in our company’s 401k plan. Employees will also receive 10 days of vacation leave each year, three Employee Appreciation Day each year, and will accrue one sick day per month (pro-rated for part-time employees). Employees will also enjoy 15 paid holidays throughout the calendar year. We also offer EAP and mental health benefits.