Kitchen Aide

Job Title

Child Development Aid

Job Description

Employees in this position assist in the care of children at the New Adventure Learning Center. Duties consist of a variety of functions that assist with procedures directed by the lead teacher. An aid will work in and out of a classroom environment giving morning/afternoon breaks for teachers, assisting with the distribution of food & drinks, light housekeeping, order supplies, assists with lunch breaks in assigned classroom, and more.

Essential Functions

Prepare and serve meals following CACFP guidelines, ensuring that children are receiving meals that are nutritious, properly prepared, and of adequate portions according to CACFT requirements. Assist in the care and instruction of a children within our Child Development Center. Duties include the supervision of children's play, meal, toilet, and rest time activities; prepare and serve children's meal/snack; perform light housekeeping duties; diaper change and proper cleanup of children after diapering. Maintain the kitchen to the highest level of sanitation and cleanliness. Prepare dishes and utensils used at mealtime for return to Transylvania Co. Schools for sanitizing. Clean stove, countertops, and other kitchen surfaces daily. Mop kitchen floor daily. Clean refrigerator, freezer, cabinets and stove periodically as needed. Arrange with Director the ordering of supplies. Understand and maintain the environmental health sanitation requirements.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Basic knowledge of developmental characteristics of toddlers and preschool children. Basic knowledge of child care methodology and developmentally appropriate practices in discipline. General knowledge of basic reading, writing and math skills. Ability to follow instructions. Ability to establish rapport with children and parents. Ability to communicate well with peers, teachers, and community resources/professionals. Ability to prepare and maintain records and reports. Ability to exercise good judgment in appraising situations and making decisions. Knowledge of good health practices as well as licensing and sanitation requirements. Ability to respond to children in gentle and nurturing ways.

Physical Demands

This position requires regular physical activity associated with working in a child development and food service setting. Employees must be able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach for extended periods throughout the day. The role involves frequent lifting and carrying of supplies, meal trays, and equipment, as well as assisting young children with daily activities, including diapering, toileting, meals, and rest time. Fine motor skills are required for food preparation, serving, cleaning, and handling utensils and materials safely. The position may also require pushing or pulling carts and performing repetitive motions related to housekeeping and kitchen maintenance tasks.

Work Environment

The work environment includes a classroom and kitchen setting within a child development center. Employees are exposed to typical conditions found in childcare and food preparation areas, including noise from children, kitchen equipment, and shared workspaces. The role requires adherence to strict sanitation, safety, and environmental health standards, including frequent cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, equipment, and floors. Interaction with children, staff, and supervisors is continuous, and the position requires flexibility to move between classrooms and kitchen areas to support daily center operations.

Education and Experience

High School diploma or equivalency is required. Preference of at least two years of experience in working with young children in nursery school, kindergarten or child care facility. Additional Requirements: Valid North Carolina Driver's License. Successful completion of SBI background check with required fingerprinting by Sheriff Office. Successful completion of Transylvania County standard background check. Successful completion of drug screening.