Substitute Food Assistant

JOB SUMMARY

The Substitute Food Assistant assists with the preparation and service of nutritious meals to students and staff in accordance with USDA, Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) School Nutrition Program requirements, and applicable state and local health regulations. The Substitute Food Assistant may work at various school nutrition locations within the district as needed to provide coverage for absent employees or staffing needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Substitute Food Assistant shall:

1. Report to the assigned school at the agreed-upon time and be ready to perform assigned duties.
2. Assist with food preparation and cooking according to approved menus, recipes, USDA requirements, and GaDOE School Nutrition Program guidelines.
3. Follow proper food safety and sanitation procedures during food preparation, service, storage, and cleanup in accordance with USDA requirements and state and local health department regulations.
4. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment, including preparation areas, serving areas, storage areas, floors, equipment, and other cafeteria facilities.
5. Properly clean and sanitize food service equipment and utensils after use, including spoons, knives, pots, pans, ovens, warmers, preparation tables, and other kitchen equipment.
6. Assist with receiving, storing, preparing, and serving food as directed by the School Nutrition Director.
7. Follow the daily menu, standardized recipes, portion requirements, meal service procedures, and directions provided by the School Nutrition Director.
8. Assist with breakfast, lunch, snack, and other school nutrition meal service activities as assigned.
9. Assist with special events and activities requiring use of the cafeteria, kitchen, food preparation areas, or serving lines when requested by the School Nutrition Director or school administration.
10. Maintain professional and respectful relationships with students, faculty, staff, school administrators, and other School Nutrition employees.
11. Attend required training and professional development as directed by the School Nutrition Director, USDA, GaDOE, or other regulatory agencies.
12. Follow all district, school, School Nutrition Program, USDA, GaDOE, and health department policies and procedures.
13. Immediately report food safety concerns, equipment problems, accidents, injuries, sanitation concerns, or other operational issues to the School Nutrition Director.
14. Follow the appropriate chain of communication when discussing workplace concerns, operational issues, suggestions, or employment-related matters.
15. Perform other duties as assigned by the School Nutrition Director or school administration.

16. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
    • Previous food service experience preferred but not required.
    • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
    • Ability to work effectively with students and staff.
    • Ability to maintain a clean and sanitary work environment.
    • Ability to work as part of a team.
    • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform the physical duties associated with school food service operations.
    • Must be willing to complete required School Nutrition Program training.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

    The successful candidate should demonstrate:

    • Knowledge of or willingness to learn food safety and sanitation practices.
    • Ability to follow menus, recipes, portion requirements, and meal service procedures.
    • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
    • Dependability and punctuality.
    • Professional communication and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when working with students and staff.
    • Ability to follow established procedures and supervisory instructions.

    WORKING CONDITIONS

    Work is primarily performed in a school cafeteria, kitchen, food preparation area, or serving area. The position may require prolonged standing, walking, bending, lifting, carrying, reaching, and working around kitchen equipment, hot food, and cleaning supplies.

    SUBSTITUTE EXPECTATIONS

    Because this is a substitute position, assignments may vary based on the needs of the School Nutrition Program. Substitute employees are expected to maintain reliable communication with the School Nutrition Director regarding availability and assignments.