Greeter/ServSafe Food Handler

Grace Early Learning Center; Elkridge (MD); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

Grace Early Learning Center in Elkridge, Maryland, is seeking a Kitchen Staff & Lobby Greeter. This role is critical for ensuring children receive nutritious meals and for providing a welcoming environment for families and visitors. Candidates should have a High School Diploma, Food Safety Certification, and skills in food handling and customer service. It promises a part-time schedule in a dynamic kitchen setting, requiring team collaboration and effective communication.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Food Safety Certification required.
• Prior experience in food preparation or customer service is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare age-appropriate meals according to nutritional guidelines.
• Adhere to food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Greet parents and children warmly, ensuring safety and security.

Skills

Safe food handling

Meal planning

Communication

Time-management

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Food Safety Certification

Job description

ServSafe Food Handler & Lobby Greeter

Grace Early Learning Center (GELC)

Position Summary

The Kitchen Staff & Lobby Greeter plays an essential role in supporting the daily operations of Grace Early Learning Center. This dual-position ensures that children receive safe, nutritious meals and that families and visitors experience a warm, efficient welcome into the center. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, friendly, and committed to maintaining a safe and caring environment.

ServeSafe Food Handler Responsibilities

1. Meal Preparation & Cooking

• Prepare age-appropriate breakfasts and snacks according to the center’s menu and nutritional guidelines.
• Follow recipes, portion sizes, and dietary requirements to ensure balanced meals for all age groups.
• Accommodate special dietary needs, including allergies, religious restrictions, and individualized meal plans.
• Maintain and update allergy lists; prepare and label allergy-safe meals accurately.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule.

2. Food Safety & Hygiene

• Adhere to all food safety, sanitation, and storage protocols, including proper temperature control.
• Maintain logs for food temperatures and daily cleaning procedures.
• Keep the kitchen clean, organized, and compliant with state licensing and health department regulations.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and equipment; sanitize all prep areas and food storage locations.
• Dispose of waste appropriately and maintain overall kitchen cleanliness.

3. Inventory Management

• Monitor and maintain inventory of food, supplies, and equipment.
• Track expiration dates and rotate stock to reduce waste.
• Communicate supply needs to the Director and purchase food items within budget guidelines.
• Ensure fresh, appropriate ingredients are always available.

4. Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with teachers to ensure children’s dietary needs are met.
• Coordinate with administration regarding menu updates, allergies, and special requests.

5. Record Keeping

• Prepare weekly meal plans.
• Maintain required documentation, including temperature logs, inventory forms, and allergy lists.
• Support compliance with childcare licensing and health standards.

6. Additional Kitchen Duties

• Attend required training sessions related to nutrition, food safety, and kitchen operations.
• Support special events with food-related tasks as needed.

Lobby Greeter Responsibilities

1. Welcome Families & Visitors

• Warmly greet parents, children, and guests upon arrival, creating a welcoming and positive environment.
• Ensure accurate and timely check-in and check-out of children using Procare.
• Escort or direct visitors, delivery personnel, and prospective families to appropriate areas while following security protocols.
• Assist with smooth, safe drop-off and pick-up routines.

2. Safety & Security

• Monitor building entry and ensure only authorized individuals gain access.
• Verify identification and approved pick-up lists as needed.
• Remain familiar with emergency procedures and assist during drills or unexpected situations.

3. Support Center Operations

• Provide guidance to parents during events, conferences, or special activities.
• Assist with communication between the lobby and administrative team as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Food Safety Certification required.
• Prior experience in food preparation, childcare, school environments, or customer service is a plus.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of safe food handling, storage, and sanitation practices.
• Ability to plan and prepare meals according to nutritional and dietary guidelines.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong time-management and organizational abilities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs (e.g., cases of milk, food containers, supplies).
• Comfort using kitchen equipment such as ovens, stoves, dishwashers, and tools.

Working Conditions

• Part-time schedule with flexibility for occasional events.
• Fast-paced kitchen environment, especially during meal service times.
• Must follow all health and safety standards related to food service and childcare settings.

Key Competencies

• Reliability: Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Teamwork: Works well with staff across the center.
• Organization: Able to manage schedules, food prep, and inventory efficiently.
• Professionalism: Presents a positive, friendly, and composed demeanor to families and children.