Assemble food, dishes, utensils and supplies needed for timely meal preparation. Prepare high-quality nutritional food, in quantity, as directed by Food Service Manager. Follow standardized recipes. Prepare and sort food for meal preparation for each classroom. Adhere to sanitation and safety procedures prescribed for the Head Start kitchen. Assure that food temperatures are hot or cold enough, and kitchen areas are sanitary so that health standards are maintained. Wash dishes, pots, pans and utensils using approved sanitation methods. Return all items to their proper storage site. Complete routine maintenance of main kitchen and equipment, including weekly deep cleaning. Routine cleaning of individual classroom food service areas. Deliver meals from main kitchen to classrooms as assigned. Order and pick up supplies as requested. Assist in receiving orders from vendors, insuring that proper items have been delivered. Assist with menu planning and food inventory as assigned. Knowledge of food production, with one year relevant experience or education. Working knowledge of sanitation and safety procedures prescribed for large scale kitchen production. Basic literacy skills. Ability to problem solve and respond appropriately to the unexpected (staff shortages, equipment malfunctions etc.) while maintaining strict meal schedule