Nutrition Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Nutrition Assistant supports the daily operations of New Leaf Nutrition Services by assisting with meal preparation, portioning, packaging, labeling, transportation, meal service, delivery, sanitation, and program documentation activities. This position helps ensure meals are prepared and delivered safely, accurately, and in compliance with all applicable program requirements for the Senior Nutrition Program, Medically Tailored Meals (MTM), and New Leaf Café.

The Nutrition Assistant plays a key role in maintaining accurate records and documentation necessary for program compliance, reporting, and reimbursement. This position serves neighbors with dignity, compassion, and professionalism while contributing to a positive team environment and supporting the mission of the Ministerial Association of California Counties (MACC).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation and Production

• Assist with the preparation and assembly of meals according to standardized recipes and production schedules.

• Portion food accurately according to program requirements and dietary specifications.

• Assist in the preparation of congregate meals, café menu items, and medically tailored meals.

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and quality control procedures.

• Assist with meal production activities for special events and community programs as assigned.

• Maintain clean and organized workstations throughout food production.

Medically Tailored Meals (MTM)

• Portion, package, seal, label, and organize medically tailored meals according to prescribed dietary plans.

• Verify meal labels, dietary designations, and packaging accuracy.

• Organize refrigerated and frozen meal inventory.

• Assist with meal assembly, quality assurance, and preparation for delivery.

• Maintain production records and documentation as required.

• Assist with inventory management and stock rotation using FIFO principles.

• Receive, organize, and prepare home-delivered meals for distribution.

• Verify meal counts and delivery documentation prior to route departure.

• Deliver meals to homebound participants in accordance with program requirements.

• Maintain accurate delivery logs and participant records.

• Document meal deliveries, participant contacts, and route information as required.

• Compile and submit delivery documentation to support monthly reporting and reimbursement requirements.

• Assist with transportation of meals, supplies, and equipment between service locations.

Transportation and Delivery

• Load and unload meals, supplies, and equipment safely and efficiently.

• Deliver meals and program supplies according to assigned schedules and routes, using agency vehicles.

• Ensure meals remain within required temperature standards during transport.

• Complete daily delivery logs, temperature logs, mileage logs, and other required documentation.

• Report participant concerns, wellness observations, or service issues to supervisors.

• Conduct routine vehicle inspections and promptly report maintenance concerns.

• Operate agency vehicles safely and in accordance with MACC policies and applicable traffic laws.

Sanitation and Facility Maintenance

• Wash dishes, utensils, cookware, and food service equipment.

• Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, storage areas, and service areas in accordance with health department requirements.

• Maintain organized storage areas and workspaces.

• Receive, inspect, and store deliveries appropriately.

• Follow all cleaning schedules and sanitation procedures.

Team and Mission Support

• Treat all neighbors, customers, volunteers, coworkers, and community partners with dignity, respect, and professionalism.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding participant, customer, and organizational information.

• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.

• Support workforce development and training initiatives as assigned.

• Assist other MACC programs and departments as needed.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Ability to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions.

• Strong organizational and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Commitment to excellent customer service and neighbor care.

• Valid California Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

• Ability to meet agency vehicle insurance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Previous food service, nutrition program, delivery, or commercial kitchen experience.

• Food Handler Certification or ability to obtain certification within required timeframe.

• Experience working with seniors, individuals with disabilities, or vulnerable populations.

• Experience maintaining program documentation and records.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, lifting, and carrying.

• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to push and pull carts, meal carriers, and food transport equipment.

• Ability to drive delivery vehicles for extended periods of time.

• Ability to enter and exit delivery vehicles multiple times throughout the day.

• Ability to work in refrigerated and freezer environments for short periods.

Work Environment

Work is performed in commercial kitchens, congregate meal sites, cafés, storage areas, delivery vehicles, and community settings. The position may involve exposure to kitchen equipment, varying temperatures, and frequent interaction with participants, customers, volunteers, and the public.