Kitchen Support Food Prep Associate

Montessori Kids Universe of Bannockburn; United States; On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Full time

Job summary

Montessori Kids Universe of Bannockburn is looking for a dependable Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate to assist with daily meal and snack preparation for children while maintaining a clean, organized, and health-compliant kitchen environment.

This role emphasizes behind-the-scenes support, cleanliness, efficient food prep, and adherence to safety guidelines in a school setting.

Qualifications

• Experience in food service or kitchen support is preferred.
• Certifications such as ServSafe or Food Handler are preferred or willingness to obtain them.
• Knowledge of basic culinary techniques and safe food handling.
• Strong work ethic and reliability with attention to detail and organization.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning monthly menus based on seasonality and nutritional guidelines.
• Prepare and portion snacks and catered lunches for classroom distribution.
• Deliver snacks to classrooms at scheduled times and maintain inventory levels.
• Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations (local and state guidelines).
• Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures.
• Support staff needs related to meal service and kitchen operations.

Skills

Food service experience

ServSafe / Food Handler cert

Basic culinary techniques

Reliability

Time management

Job description

Position Summary

Montessori Kids Universe is seeking a dependable, hardworking Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate to join our team. This combined role supports daily meal and snack preparation for children while maintaining a clean, organized, and health-compliant kitchen environment.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes to support children and staff, takes pride in cleanliness and organization, and can manage food preparation and dishwashing responsibilities efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Assist in planning monthly menus based on seasonality and nutritional guidelines
• Create a weekly shopping list for food and kitchen supplies
• Set up the kitchen with necessary tools and equipment for daily operations
• Prepare and portion snacks and catered lunches for classroom distribution
• Deliver snacks to classrooms at scheduled times
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels and restock when necessary
• Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations (local and state guidelines)
• Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures

Dishwashing & Sanitation

• Remove food from plates and pre-rinse dishes, glasses, and utensils
• Load and unload dishwasher properly and efficiently or wash using 3 compartment Sink
• Return clean items to appropriate storage areasSweep and mop kitchen floors daily
• Monitor detergent and cleaning supply levels
• Perform general cleaning tasks as assigned by management
• Follow all health and safety guidelines

Team Collaboration

• Participate in team meetings
• Support staff needs related to meal service
• Perform other duties as assigned by administration

Qualifications

• Previous experience in food service, kitchen support, or similar role preferred
• ServSafe or Food Handler’s Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Knowledge of basic culinary techniques and food safety practices
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Positive attitude and friendly demeanor
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to remain calm
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, lifting, bending, and repetitive movement