Kitchen Assistant

What You'll Do

The following duties are typical for this position:

• Assist with food preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure high-quality meals are served to the children.
• Deliver meals to classrooms as assigned, maintaining a clean and organized environment throughout the kitchen and classrooms.
• Collaborate with staff to plan and develop menus that are nutritious, appealing, and meet the dietary needs of the children.
• Maintain a clean and sanitized food preparation area, adhering to all safety and sanitation procedures.
• Help monitor food and supply stock, ordering items as needed, and maintaining inventory levels.
• Work collaboratively with staff to suggest menu options and provide feedback on food quality and presentation.
• Adhere to all safety and sanitation procedures, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for the children and staff.
• Build positive relationships with children, promoting a sense of belonging and respect among all members of the NEYC community.
• Work effectively as part of a team, contributing to the overall success of the kitchen and NEYC.
• Ensure compliance with WAC (Washington Administrative Code) requirements and participate in mandated training programs as instructed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Kitchen Lead, Food Program Manager, or Executive Director, including special projects and events.

Requirements

• Ability to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing. Multilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with children.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have a basic understanding of food safety regulations and sanitation standards.
• Ability to pass background checks, including criminal history, child abuse – including Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), and motor vehicle records.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with children.
• Pre-employment requirements: Proof of employment eligibility, proof of Tuberculin skin (TB) test, copy of immunization record that includes Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) vaccination and COVID vaccination or exception, valid Food Handler’s card.
• Must obtain First Aid/CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens certification within two (2) weeks of hire and complete all other job-specific required training as instructed.
• Ability to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing. Multilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Nice to Have

• Previous experience in a kitchen environment, such as working as a line cook or in a similar position, where you have demonstrated expertise in food preparation, presentation, and customer service.
• In-depth knowledge/training of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) for childcare facilities, which enables you to expertly manage food safety and sanitation standards.

Benefits