Early Head Start Nutrition Aide

HILL COUNTRY COMMUNITY ACTION ASSOCIATION, INC; Copperas Cove (TX); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accrual of sick and vacation leave

Health insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Up to 15 paid holidays per year

Job summary

Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc. seeks an Early Head Start Nutrition Aide to assist in daily meal production meeting CACFP standards. You will help with menus, inventory, food preparation, labeling, and documentation, while supporting staff and ensuring safety.

The role requires basic education, English proficiency, and willingness to obtain CPR/First Aid within 90 days. Collaboration with dietitians and medical professionals is expected.

Qualifications

• Must be able to speak, read and write in English.
• Must be dependable and flexible with assignments.
• Must obtain/maintain CPR and First Aid within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritious meals for children per CACFP requirements.
• Review menus and estimate food quantities.
• Purchase supplies and maintain receipts and inventory.
• Record temperatures and complete CACFP documentation.
• Assist teaching staff and support classroom activities.
• Attend training and staff meetings.

Skills

English proficiency

Bilingual skills (encouraged)

Food handling safety

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Office equipment (fax, calculator, copier, telephone)

Job description

Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc.

Early Head Start Job Description

JOB TITLE: Early Head Start Nutrition Aide (12 months)

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO: Teacher/Director

ASSIGNMENT DATE: _____________

DESIGNATED HEADQUARTERS: ____________________________

The EHS Nutrition Aide will be responsible for the daily production of nutritious, child-friendly meals, which meet the requirements of the Child and Adult Care Food Program and completing all required documentations related to their job. Special attention is required to fulfill special diet requests from medical professionals and Registered Dietitians. The EHS Nutrition Aide will also assist classroom staff in keeping children safe.

Essential Job Functions

• Review menus for needed supplies and determine the amount of food needed by completing a food production estimate on the food program management software.
• Purchasing approved supplies at local stores or approved vendors, depending on the amount needed. Strive to be well organized to avoid daily trips to the store.
• Prepare Purchase summaries and keep copies of receipts.
• Review labels to ensure special diet requirements and CACFP requirements are met.
• Inventory, label, and properly store food.
• Prepare breakfast, lunch, and snacks for the children in care in a safe and sanitary manner, following health and safety requirements.
• Record food temperatures.
• Complete the required documentation to meet CACFP requirements.
• Keep proper and up-to-‑date inventory of all kitchen equipment and products.
• Keep copies of food labels and CN labels
• Clean and sanitize work area, kitchen and eating area as required in the nutrition Procedure Manual.
• Attend monthly staff meetings to share and receive information on special dietary requirements, edited menus, special feeding requirements for infants, needs, and concerns. Update special diet requirements as required by Child Care Licensing.
• Follow Feeding Instructions of parents for Infants under 12 months. Complete infant feeding records on the Food Program software program.
• Work as a member of a team and assist co-‑workers as time allows.
• Complete Self Inspection Checklists and correct any findings.
• Attend all training courses as requested or other duties assigned by the supervisor, content coordinator or Head Start Director.
• Provide assistance to the teaching team regarding supervision of children or covering in the classroom when teachers step out.
• Provide assistance to the teaching staff regarding food and cooking experiences with the children
• Be involved in special events which require preparation and/or organization (Art show, Christmas party, and graduation)
• Involve children in kitchen activities as appropriate

Job Requirements

ANNUAL PRE-SERVICE TRAINING IS MANDATORY

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Minimum: High School Diploma or GED. Some experience and ability to cook.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Must be able to speak, read and write in English. Must have a warm, supportive, pleasant, and positive attitude toward young children and parents. Must be dependable. Must be flexible in receiving assignments or adapting to changes in the program. Must be willing to accept supervision and adapt to improve work performance.

OTHER

Professional manner and attire. No record of a conviction which would contraindicate employment. Must be 21 years of age and must have, at a minimum, a valid Class C Driver's License, and a reliable vehicle with current liability insurance; insurable under HCCAA's vehicle insurance policy. An initial Head Start physical screening within 30 days of hire. Must obtain or maintain CPR and First Aid certifications (collateral rather than primary duty of this position) within 90 days of hire. Must complete Food Handlers Certificate upon hiring. Must comply with all HCCAA Policies and maintain confidentiality in all phases of agency operations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No

Equipment To Be Used

Must be able to operate a computer and other office machines such as fax, calculator, copier, and telephone.

Typical Physical Demands

Must be able to lift to 40 pounds. Standing, walking, bending, twisting, reaching, driving, and sitting. Requires a normal range of hearing and vision. Must be able to react quickly (run after a child).

Typical Mental Demands

Must manage new and diverse work problems daily. Personal maturity is an important attribute. Must be able to resolve problems, manage conflict, and make effective decisions under pressure. Must have the ability to listen objectively to people, perceive the real problem and assist in bringing issues to a successful conclusion. Must relate and interact with employees at all levels within the agency. Bilingual skills are encouraged. Knowledge of basic math and literacy skills. Ability to record data pertinent to Head Start Performance Standards.

Working Conditions

During the Head Start school year the classroom staff is scheduled to work an alternate work schedule to coincide with the center's hours of operation. (As assigned for those working less than full time). The center hours of operation are typically 7:30 am-4:00 pm, Monday-Friday. The Center Director will plan the work schedule for each employee. To meet program goals, classroom staff will occasionally be required to perform duties outside their alternate work schedule. Some out-of-town and overnight travel are required.

Employee Benefits

• Accrual of sick and vacation leave, health insurance, life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, and up to 15 paid holidays per year. Options for employee paid benefits.

Flsa Status Disclaimer

FLSA status is based in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. Any changes in the act which will affect the FLSA status will be adhered to. When wages exceed the position entry level due to tenure, the Exempt/Non-Exempt status will be designated accordingly.

Acknowledgement And Receipt

I have reviewed the EHS Nutrition Aide job description and acknowledge its receipt. I understand that my job may not necessarily be limited to those listed, as their exact nature may vary as program, project elements, and priorities change in the future. I understand that this job description may be updated as needed.

________________________________________ _____________________________________

Employee Signature Date

As supervisor of the EHS Nutrition Aide position, I have received a copy of this job description and acknowledge its receipt with my signature below.

____________________________________________ _________________________________________

Supervisor Signature Date

Background & Criminal History Authorization

By submitting this application, I authorize [Company Name] to conduct a background investigation, which may include a criminal history check, in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). I understand that a criminal record does not automatically disqualify me from consideration. Each applicant is evaluated individually based on the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position.