Job Details
Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job Title: Food Service Provider/Preparer
Department: HeadStart
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Hours/Weeks: Part Year, Full Time
Bargaining Unit Position: (Y/N): Yes
NEKCA Mission Statement:
To empower all generations in the Northeast Kingdom to grow, prosper, and thrive.
SUMMARY:
Food Service Providers are responsible for preparation and service of nutritious meals as prescribed by USDA/CACFP regulations. This position is able to work with a Nutrition Manager and Health Manager to create menus and establish healthy eating patterns. In addition, this position is required to complete all paperwork in compliance with the federal food program CACFP.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Carry out duties in compliance with HS Performance Standards, Content Area Plans, Vermont Child Care Licensing Regulations for Center-Based Child Care and Preschool Programs, NAEYC, and NEKCA Standard of conduct.
Complete NEKCA Performance Evaluations, Professional Development Self-Assessment, and in partnership with supervisor, Individualized Professional Development Plan
Be aware of indicators of child abuse and neglect and comply with Vermont Mandated Reporter Law and program Child Protection Protocol Participate in center staff meetings, monthly content area meetings, pre-service, and in-services and incorporate relevant knowledge and skills into practice
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Prepare and post each week's menu at center
Prepare shopping list reflective of program weekly menu plans
Shop for necessary food/non-food items no more than two times a week
Store food/non-food items following USDA/CACFP regulations
Prepare market orders and submit no less than bi-weekly
Prepare and serve breakfast and lunch at regularly established times for enrolled children/staff and adults volunteering in center and serve family style.
Meals and snacks are at least 2&fac12; hours apart but not more than 3 hours apart
Prepare and serve a snack for children, parent/guardians, staff and community members at playgroups according to center plan
Plan and prepare afternoon snack for enrolled children and staff in full day programs
Have emergency meals (breakfast, lunch, snack) planned, posted in kitchen, and all food items available
Complete on a daily basis the following paperwork:
Food Services Provider's Daily Attendance - Child and - Adult, Meal Count Sheet, and CACFP Weekly Meal Record and submit by the end of the month
Submit Food Inventory paperwork by the end of September, November, February and May
Complete equipment inventory and submit with end-of-month paperwork in May
Follow program and Early Childhood Program Licensing Regulations' sanitation requirements; complete and submit Monthly Sanitation Checklist
Sweep and mop kitchen floor daily
Provide monthly menu to parents/guardians reflecting what is being served daily
Coordinate with classroom staff to include children in meal preparation and daily service on a rotating basis
Plan and coordinate nutrition education activities with program staff for classroom and Early Head Start families according to program Nutrition Plan.
Assist at mealtime with children if requested
Provide breaks for classroom staff following center plan
Plan and conduct kitchen volunteer/substitute training for parents/guardians and community members to assist them in understanding food service routines, sanitation requirements and the program Nutrition Plan regarding food service.
Oversee collection and maintenance of and/or support in maintaining compost system
Offer ongoing communication with parents/guardians
Actively participate in program and family/child staffing's as requested
In partnership with center team, participate in collecting and documenting non-federal share
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
Education and Experience:
GED or High School Diploma
2 years relevant experience
Background Checks:
Employees in this role are required to undergo a background check in accordance with NEKCA policy, which may include verifying education, employment history, and criminal records.
Transportation Requirements:
This position necessitates that employees possess a valid driver's license and have access to dependable transportation.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Noise Levels: Restaurants and kitchens can be noisy environments, especially during peak hours.
Physical Demands: Physical demands can include lifting heavy boxes, standing for long periods carrying trays, and performing repetitive tasks such as chopping, stirring, or cleaning.
Temperature Extremes: Depending on the role, employees may be exposed to extreme temperatures, especially those working in kitchens near stoves, ovens, or grills.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Food service workers are expected to adhere to strict cleanliness and hygiene standards. This includes personal hygiene as well as maintaining a clean work environment.
Safety Regulations: Employees must follow safety regulations, particularly in kitchens where there are potential hazards such as hot surfaces, sharp tools, and heavy equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.