Tray Line Server

Dietary Tray Line Server

The Dietary Tray Line Server is responsible for accurately assembling and serving resident meal trays according to physician-prescribed diets, resident preferences, and facility standards. This position plays a vital role in ensuring residents receive nutritious, safe, and appealing meals while maintaining compliance with food safety regulations and infection control standards. The Tray Line Server works as part of the dietary team to provide excellent customer service and contribute to the overall health and satisfaction of residents in a long-term care environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assemble resident meal trays accurately according to therapeutic diets, meal tickets, and portion control guidelines.
• Verify tray accuracy to ensure the correct food items, beverages, condiments, utensils, and supplements are included.
• Follow all physician-ordered diet modifications, including texture-modified diets and fluid restrictions.
• Maintain proper food temperatures throughout meal service.
• Assist with meal preparation and portioning as directed.
• Deliver meal trays to designated areas or assist with tray distribution when needed.
• Collect meal trays after service and transport them to the dishwashing area.
• Wash, sanitize, and store dishes, utensils, and food service equipment following sanitation procedures.
• Clean and sanitize workstations, serving equipment, carts, and dining areas before and after meal service.
• Practice proper hand hygiene and comply with infection prevention and control procedures.
• Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations, including HACCP principles.
• Report resident concerns, food shortages, equipment malfunctions, or safety hazards to the supervisor.
• Assist with stocking food, supplies, and disposable items.
• Rotate food supplies using the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) method.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Assist with special events, holiday meals, and catering functions as assigned.
• Attend required in-service education and staff meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Dietary Manager or Supervisor.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Food service experience in healthcare, long-term care, or hospitality preferred but not required.

Experience

• Previous food service or customer service experience is preferred.
• Experience working with therapeutic diets is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to read meal tickets and resident diet orders accurately.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and infection control practices.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to provide courteous and respectful service to residents, families, and staff.
• Basic math skills for portion control and food measurements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 30 pounds; occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance.
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and twisting.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, and wet environments.
• Ability to push loaded meal carts safely throughout the facility.

Working Conditions

• Long-term care or skilled nursing facility environment.
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals, kitchen equipment, and varying temperatures.
• Frequent interaction with elderly residents, visitors, and healthcare staff.
• Weekend, holiday, and rotating shift work may be required.

Compliance Responsibilities

Employees are expected to:

• Follow all facility policies and procedures.
• Comply with HIPAA confidentiality requirements.
• Adhere to all federal, state, and local health regulations.
• Observe resident rights and maintain dignity and respect in all interactions.
• Follow OSHA safety standards and infection control guidelines.

Performance Expectations

Success in this role is demonstrated by:

• Accurate tray assembly with minimal errors.
• Timely meal service.
• Consistent compliance with therapeutic diet requirements.
• Excellent sanitation and food safety practices.
• Positive teamwork and communication.
• Professional, respectful interactions with residents and staff.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

This position is essential to providing quality nutritional care and enhancing the dining experience for residents by ensuring meals are served safely, accurately, and with compassion.