Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist

Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist

Primary Purpose: To assist in the preparation, serving, and clean-up of meals in accordance with federal, state, and district child nutrition regulations. The Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist ensures safe food handling practices, maintains cleanliness standards, and supports efficient cafeteria operations in the absence of regular staff.

Qualifications:

• Education / Certification: High school diploma or equivalent preferred Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe)
• Experience: Previous food service or cafeteria experience preferred Experience working in a school setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation procedures
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Basic math skills for portion control and point-of-sale transactions
• Ability to operate standard kitchen equipment
• Ability to interact positively with students, staff, and visitors

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Food Preparation & Service:
• Assist in preparing food items according to standardized recipes and portion guidelines
• Serve meals to students and staff following USDA meal pattern requirements
• Ensure proper portion sizes and presentation
• Replenish serving lines and food stations as needed
• Operate point-of-sale system for meal transactions when assigned
• Sanitation & Safety:
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment
• Wash dishes, utensils, trays, and equipment
• Follow all HACCP guidelines and food safety procedures
• Monitor food temperatures and document as required
• Comply with district and health department standards
• Customer Service:
• Provide courteous and professional service to students and staff
• Assist younger students as needed
• Promote a positive dining experience
• Operational Support:
• Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries
• Rotate stock according to FIFO (First In, First Out) practices
• Set up and break down serving areas
• Support special meal programs or events as assigned
• Supervisory Responsibilities: None.
• Working Conditions:
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Exposure to heat, cold, and kitchen equipment
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Work may require early morning hours
• Physical Demands:
• Continuous standing and walking
• Repetitive hand and arm motions
• Occasional lifting of food boxes, trays, or equipment
• Other Duties:
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Cafeteria Manager or Child Nutrition Director.