Job Title

Food Service Worker 1: Kitchen Assistant

FLSA Status

Full Time Non-Exempt

Department

Nutrition

Direct Supervisor

Kitchen Manager

Job Summary

Competency Area

Responsibilities

Key Behaviors

Meal Assistance & Food Preparation

• Assist in preparing meals and snacks as directed.
• Measure and portion food according to guidelines.
• Help with plating and delivering meals to classrooms.
• Ensure food is served at proper temperatures.
• Report any food shortages or supply needs.

• Follows directions and recipes accurately.
• Practices portion control and meal presentation.
• Works efficiently under time constraints.
• Adheres to food handling safety during preparation and serving.
• Communicates promptly with the Kitchen Manager when issues arise

Kitchen Sanitation & Food Safety

• Maintains a clean and sanitary kitchen environment aligned with health and safety regulations.
• Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and kitchen tools.
• Clean countertops, tables, floors, and sinks daily.
• Dispose of trash and recycling properly.
• Store food in labeled, sealed containers using FIFO (First-In, First-Out).
• Assist with cleaning appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and freezers.

• Cleans and sanitizes surfaces, dishes, and equipment daily.
• Properly stores leftovers and perishable items.
• Follows health department guidelines and safety protocols.
• Practices personal hygiene (e.g., handwashing, gloves, hair covering).
• Assists with cleaning schedules and checklists.

Menu Planning & Documentation

• Coordinates timely delivery and pick-up of meals to classrooms with a focus on safety and professionalism and to other sites.
• Deliver breakfast, lunch, and snack trays to assigned classrooms.
• Retrieve trays, dishes, and carts after mealtimes.
• Double-check allergy lists and meal counts before delivery.
• Notify Kitchen Manager of any issues with delivery.
• Assist teachers in setting up food service areas when needed

• Delivers food trays and carts carefully and respectfully.
• Communicates with classroom staff about meal changes.
• Ensures all classrooms receive the correct number of meals.
• Returns used dishes and equipment for cleaning.
• Handles food allergies or dietary needs appropriately

Inventory Support & Storage

• Assists in receiving and organizing food and supply inventory.
• Help unpack and store delivered food and supplies.
• Label and date items upon arrival.
• Organize dry, refrigerated, and frozen storage areas.
• Rotate stock to prevent spoilage.
• Report inventory concerns to the Kitchen Manager

• Checks deliveries for accuracy and quality.
• Organizes and stocks shelves and coolers neatly.
• Reports low stock or damaged goods.
• Follows storage procedures and safety rules.
• Maintains cleanliness in storage areas

Communication & Teamwork

• Works collaboratively with kitchen and center staff to ensure smooth meal operations
• Attend required training and check-ins.
• Support other food service staff when needed.
• Share concerns or suggestions with supervisor.
• Communicate respectfully in person or via written logs.
• Follow the daily schedule and assigned duties..

• Follows directions from the Kitchen Manager consistently.
• Communicates respectfully with coworkers and teachers.
• Participates in kitchen staff meetings or trainings.
• Supports coworkers with a positive attitude.
• Takes initiative when tasks are completed.

Professionalism & Compliance

• Demonstrates reliability, professionalism, and compliance with all agency and program requirements.
• Complete required training (e.g., food safety, orientation).
• Maintain Food Handler’s Certification (or obtain within 30 days).
• Follow all Cen-Tex policies and Head Start regulations.
• Maintain a professional appearance and positive attitude.
• Submit time sheets, leave requests, and documentation on time

• Arrives on time and follows the assigned schedule.
• Dresses appropriately and follows hygiene protocols.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding children and families.
• Participates in required training and certification updates.
• Adheres to all safety and personnel policies.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in food preparation or kitchen work (preferred).
• Must obtain Food Handler’s Certificate within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform repetitive physical tasks.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to follow safety protocols.
• Must pass background check, TB test, and health screenings.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required

Licenses/Certifications

• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
• Valid Texas ID/Driver License
• Background clearance as required by state and federal regulations.