Nutrition Specialist

Nutrition Specialist

Ozark Opportunities, Inc. is seeking a motivated professional that is passionate about early childhood education and nutrition. We are hiring for one position for the 2026-2027 school year.

The Nutrition Specialist role is responsible for implementing duties that include cooking, cleaning, relieving the teachers for breaks and planning time, and substituting for a teacher if absent. The incumbent will act as an integral part of the Comprehensive Services Department through collaboration and compliance with the CACFP grant.

This position would start in August at the beginning of the 26-27 school year. This position is 10 months in a year, furloughed during Spring Break week, Summer break, Thanksgiving break, and Christmas break. Furloughed employees are able and encouraged to draw unemployment during these times.

Why Join Our Team?

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.
• Work alongside a dedicated, mission-driven team.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Help create positive, inclusive learning environments where every child can succeed.
• Great Total Rewards Package:
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (eligible after 60-day waiting period)
  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance (eligible after 60-day waiting period)
  • Company Paid AirEvac Family Membership (eligible after 90-day waiting period)
  • Accrual of paid sick leave (eligible after 90-day waiting period)
  • Participation in the 403b retirement plan (eligible after 3-month waiting period)

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Assist center staff in maintaining a safe, healthy learning environment and provide for children's feeling of security away from home. • Assures compliance with Arkansas Department of Health Regulations. • Cook and/or assist in serving meals and snacks and clean up after meals, as scheduled at each center. • Responsible for shopping according to USDA/Health and food guidelines and maintaining food inventory. • Maintain and report accurate USDA Meal Documentation Records on a daily basis, as assigned. • Assures compliance with special dietary requirements (food allergies, special needs, etc.) • Assist teaching staff with classroom cleaning schedule, naptime, laundry, etc. • Maintain cordial relationships with children and families. • Maintain positive relationships with all staff and work as part of the team. • Participates in Professional Development Opportunities, OOI training, and special events. • Maintains MSDA. • Assist with generating in-kind. • Performs other duties as assigned.

We expect qualified candidates to be able to use a computer and office document and spreadsheet software. Strong communication skills. Ability to work in a team and maintain a positive, supportive attitude. Ability to operate kitchen equipment. Knowledge of CACFP is preferred. Qualified candidates must have an active and unhindered driver's license with reliable personal transportation, a high school diploma, or equivalent. Successfully pass Criminal Background Check including FBI fingerprint, Child Maltreatment checks.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands include the ability to stand for long periods, lift items up to 50lbs., bend and reach to access shelves, and pick up items from the floor. Good hand dexterity and repetitive use of hands in using kitchen tools such as knives, utensils, and kitchen equipment with precision. Ability to walk and climb stairs while carrying food to classrooms. Ability to push and pull carts to the classrooms. Occasional driving within the 6-county service area with occasional out-of-area functions/training.