JOB SUMMARY

The Kitchen Associate supports the daily operations of the Mattie Rhodes Early Learning Center kitchen. Responsibilities include cleaning and sanitizing dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment; maintaining a clean, organized kitchen environment; stocking supplies; monitoring and maintaining food cart inventory; and delivering meals and snacks to classrooms. This position follows strict food safety and hygiene standards to ensure a safe and sanitary environment for children's meals in compliance with CACFP guidelines. The Kitchen Associate position is a regular, non-exempt role.

ACCOUNTABILITIES KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Dishwashing

• Operate commercial dishwashers and manually wash dishes, glassware, pots, pans, and utensils. Sanitation
• Clean and sanitize work surfaces, kitchen tools, and food storage areas, including refrigerators and freezers. Preparation
• Assist with preparing nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines; In the absence of the Chef, prepare scheduled meals and snacks. Organization
• Sort, stack, and properly store clean items; maintain cleanliness and organization of the dish area, dry storage, and shelving. Restock items as needed based on deliveries. Supply Management
• Stock serving carts with clean utensils and food supplies; monitor inventory levels and communicate supply needs to the Head Start Chef Food Safety
• Strictly follow all food handling, safety, and hygiene protocols in accordance with regulations and center policies. Administration
• Attends training sessions and staff meetings as required; assists to ensure compliance with all Head Start Performance Standards and local, state, and federal regulations.

CHILDCARE-SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Child Safety

• Ensure all dishes, utensils, and equipment used by children are thoroughly cleaned and safe for use. Meal Service Support
• Prepare and maintain clean equipment to support the timely service of nutritious meals and snacks. Health & Cleanliness
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness to support a healthy environment and help prevent the spread of illness among children

WORKING CONDITIONS

Commercial kitchen environment; exposure to heat, steam , and cleaning chemicals Interaction with children and staff in a preschool setting

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Previous kitchen experience Food Handler's license Experience working in a Head Start or early childhood education setting

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or GED required Ability to work in a fast-paced environment Ability to conduct oneself in a professional manner at all times and to communicate effectively and appropriately with a varity of people from many cultures and diverse backgrounds Valid driver's license and access to automobile on regular basis Successful completion of required background check, drug screen and submission of an initial physical and TB screening

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This job requires that the employee be able to sit, stand, walk, speak, hear, use hands and fingers, bend, stoop, lift objects of at least 40 pounds. Exposure to heat, steam and cleaning materials.

Pay:

$20.00

• $24.

00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person