Child Nutrition Maintenance Technician

School Nutrition Maintenance Technician

Responsible for the maintenance, repair, installation, transportation, and preventative care of Child Nutrition equipment and facilities throughout the district. Ensures all kitchen equipment operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with health, safety, and food service regulations while supporting daily cafeteria operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Kitchen Equipment Maintenance & Repair

• Perform preventative maintenance on all Child Nutrition equipment.
• Troubleshoot, diagnosis, and repair commercial kitchen equipment including:
• Ovens, stoves, ranges, proofing cabinets, and warmers
• Combi ovens and steamers
• Tilt skillets and kettles
• Dishwashers
• Slushie machines
• Mixers, slicers, food processors, and other food preparation equipment
• Refrigerators, coolers, freezers, and milk boxes
• Replace worn or damaged parts including motors, belts, switches, thermostats, seals, and fixtures.
• Assess equipment condition and recommend repair or replacement as needed.
• Coordinate with third-party service providers when specialized repairs are required.

Refrigeration & Ice Machine Maintenance

• Service and clean ice machines a minimum of four times annually, including descaling, sanitizing, and filter replacement.
• Perform cooler and freezer maintenance and repairs.
• Monitor refrigeration systems for proper operation and temperature control.
• Provide emergency response and product transportation when refrigeration equipment fails.
• Conduct monthly milk box cleaning and preventative maintenance.

Electrical & Mechanical Systems

• Troubleshoot and repair electrical components related to kitchen equipment.
• Diagnose issues involving ovens, steamers, warmers, proofing cabinets, and other food service equipment.
• Perform minor electrical repairs and coordinate major repairs to equipment as necessary.
• Maintain mechanical systems associated with food service operations.

Plumbing & Water Systems

• Troubleshoot and repair faucets, sinks, drains.
• Clear clogged drains and address minor plumbing issues.
• Maintain water filtration systems and ice machine water supplies.
• Diagnose water-related equipment issues and coordinate repairs when necessary.

Facility Maintenance

• Perform minor carpentry, painting, drywall related to equipment installations, and cleaning ceiling vents and tiles.
• Repair or construct shelving, storage racks, carts, and other kitchen support equipment.
• Install new kitchen equipment and furnishings.
• Move tables, shelving, and equipment as needed for repairs, renovations, or maintenance projects.
• Address facility safety concerns, trip hazards, and structural maintenance issues.

Transportation & Warehouse Support

• Deliver equipment, carts, shelving, and supplies to district campuses.
• Assist warehouse staff with weekly commodity deliveries and distributions.
• Transport food products during equipment failures or emergency situations.
• Safely operate and maintain district vehicles used for maintenance activities.
• Wash and maintain assigned maintenance vehicles.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all equipment meets health department, USDA, and food safety requirements.
• Maintain OSHA and district safety standards.
• Conduct routine safety inspections of kitchen equipment and facilities.
• Respond promptly to emergency maintenance situations.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, work orders, and service logs.
• Maintain the current Food Handler Certification.

Inventory & Purchasing

• Maintain inventory of repair parts, tools, and maintenance supplies.
• Track equipment warranties and service histories.
• Obtain vendor quotes and order approved repair parts and materials.
• Assist with long-term equipment replacement planning.

Training & Support

• Train cafeteria managers and staff on proper equipment operation, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting.
• Assist with annual summer kitchen deep-cleaning and maintenance projects.
• Provide after-hours emergency support as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with commercial food service equipment, maintenance and repair.
• Knowledge of electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, mechanical, and carpentry systems.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals, schematics, and technical documents.
• Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage priorities across multiple campuses.
• Valid Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.
• Food Handler Certification.
• Ability to lift and move heavy equipment and materials safely.