Assistant Cook

                                                                        Job Title:                                Assistant CookProgram/Dept:                      Child & Family Services Reports To:                            Kitchen SupervisorFLSA Status:                         Part Time/ Full Year/ Non-ExemptProbationary Period:            Ninety (90) daysWork Schedule:                     Up to 35 hours/weekSalary Range:                        Updated Annually  GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Assistant Cook assists in preparing and serving food in a safe and sanitary manner and is responsible for ensuring compliance of Head Start performance standards and USDA guidelines in the preparation, storage and clean-up of meals provided.     EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCEMust possess basic cooking skills.Prior experience in food not necessaryMust be able to relate well to parents, children, and other staff members.Ability to obtain a Serv-Safe Food Safety Managers Certification within 6 months of hire.  DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES    Assists in the preparation of breakfast, lunch, snack and supper for program children, staff, and volunteers according to the USDA meal patterns.Assists with clean up after meals to include sanitation of kitchen surfaces, floors, equipment, serving bowls, plates, cups, bottles, utensils, pots, and pans.Assists in safe food storage and helps maintains the kitchen to meet sanitation standards.Maintains and models good hygiene, appropriate dress and behavior for self, staff, and volunteers in the kitchen.Occasionally works with children in nutrition education activities upon request.Assists in record keeping of meal attendance, types of food provided, and amounts of food provided as needed.Assists in receipt and inventory of food orders as needed.Assumes daily responsibilities of Kitchen Supervisor in their absence. Continues education in the field of nutrition and food as opportunities arise by reading, attending workshops and trainings, or taking courses in the related field.Remains aware of special dietary needs of program children, including food allergies.Communicates to the Kitchen Supervisor and/or Food Services Manager any concerns or suggestions regarding child nutrition or food services.Ability to drive food to other locations if needed.Other duties as assigned.    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIESN/A   GENERAL EXPECTATIONSRespects confidentiality of information about agency staff, personnel issues, and other program operations. Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality Plan, assign, coordinate, organize and prioritize work.Models direct, positive, honest, and respectful behavior in every aspect of work with children, families, staff, and community members. Energetically engages people, issues, and work.Applies the highest ethical standards to themselves and others on a daily basis. Supports others in their efforts to be productive and effective and succeed in work and life.Actively participates in teambuilding, which includes sharing ideas and mutual support of team members. Consistently uses interpersonal skills that are appropriate for individual styles, personalities, cultures, the nature of the work, and the environment in which the work is being done. Practices honest, respectful, and direct communication as well as active listening. Excellent organizational skills.  EMPLOYMENT SCREENINGValid Driver's License and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) for use on the job or acceptable alternative, driving record check, criminal record check, randomized drug screening. Must have maintained a clear criminal history for a minimum of five years to meet childcare licensing criteria.