Food Service Worker 1 - Kitchen Assistant

Job Title Food Service Worker 1: Kitchen Assistant FLSA Status Full Time Non-Exempt Department Nutrition Direct Supervisor Kitchen Manager Job Summary The Kitchen Assistant supports the preparation, serving, and clean-up of daily meals and snacks in accordance with CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines, Head Start Performance Standards, local health regulations, and Cen-Tex Family Services, Inc. policies. The Kitchen Assistant works under the direction of the Kitchen Manager and collaborates with center staff to ensure food is served safely, timely, and in a child-friendly manner. This position plays an essential role in maintaining a clean and safe kitchen and contributes to the overall health and wellness of the children served Competency Area Responsibilities Key Behaviors Meal Assistance & Food Preparation Assist in preparing meals and snacks as directed. Measure and portion food according to guidelines. Help with plating and delivering meals to classrooms. Ensure food is served at proper temperatures. Report any food shortages or supply needs. Follows directions and recipes accurately. Practices portion control and meal presentation. Works efficiently under time constraints. Adheres to food handling safety during preparation and serving. Communicates promptly with the Kitchen Manager when issues arise Kitchen Sanitation & Food Safety Maintains a clean and sanitary kitchen environment aligned with health and safety regulations. Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and kitchen tools. Clean countertops, tables, floors, and sinks daily. Dispose of trash and recycling properly. Store food in labeled, sealed containers using FIFO (First-In, First-Out). Assist with cleaning appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and freezers. Cleans and sanitizes surfaces, dishes, and equipment daily. Properly stores leftovers and perishable items. Follows health department guidelines and safety protocols. Practices personal hygiene (e.g., handwashing, gloves, hair covering). Assists with cleaning schedules and checklists. Menu Planning & Documentation Coordinates timely delivery and pick-up of meals to classrooms with a focus on safety and professionalism and to other sites. Deliver breakfast, lunch, and snack trays to assigned classrooms. Retrieve trays, dishes, and carts after mealtimes. Double-check allergy lists and meal counts before delivery. Notify Kitchen Manager of any issues with delivery. Assist teachers in setting up food service areas when needed Delivers food trays and carts carefully and respectfully. Communicates with classroom staff about meal changes. Ensures all classrooms receive the correct number of meals. Returns used dishes and equipment for cleaning. Handles food allergies or dietary needs appropriately Inventory Support & Storage Assists in receiving and organizing food and supply inventory. Help unpack and store delivered food and supplies. Label and date items upon arrival. Organize dry, refrigerated, and frozen storage areas. Rotate stock to prevent spoilage. Report inventory concerns to the Kitchen Manager Checks deliveries for accuracy and quality. Organizes and stocks shelves and coolers neatly. Reports low stock or damaged goods. Follows storage procedures and safety rules. Maintains cleanliness in storage areas Communication & Teamwork Works collaboratively with kitchen and center staff to ensure smooth meal operations Attend required training and check-ins. Support other food service staff when needed. Share concerns or suggestions with supervisor. Communicate respectfully in person or via written logs. Follow the daily schedule and assigned duties.. Follows directions from the Kitchen Manager consistently. Communicates respectfully with coworkers and teachers. Participates in kitchen staff meetings or trainings. Supports coworkers with a positive attitude. Takes initiative when tasks are completed. Professionalism & Compliance Demonstrates reliability, professionalism, and compliance with all agency and program requirements. Complete required training (e.g., food safety, orientation). Maintain Food Handler's Certification (or obtain within 30 days). Follow all Cen-Tex policies and Head Start regulations. Maintain a professional appearance and positive attitude. Submit time sheets, leave requests, and documentation on time Arrives on time and follows the assigned schedule. Dresses appropriately and follows hygiene protocols. Maintains confidentiality regarding children and families. Participates in required training and certification updates. Adheres to all safety and personnel policies. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED preferred. Experience in food preparation or kitchen work (preferred). Must obtain Food Handler's Certificate within 30 days of hire. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform repetitive physical tasks. Reliable, punctual, and able to follow safety protocols. Must pass background check, TB test, and health screenings. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required Licenses/Certifications Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain). Valid Texas ID/Driver License Background clearance as required by state and federal regulations.