Nutrition Associate I (Part-Time)

Knoxville - Knox County; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 21,793,000 - 31,038,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan contributions

Paid vacation

Sick leave

Generous holidays

Job summary

The Nutrition Associate I supports CAC’s Nutrition Services program by assisting with meal packing, delivery, and food distribution to clients throughout Knox County. Working under supervision, this part-time role provides front-line customer service to clients and volunteers while ensuring safe, accurate, and timely meal service.

Cross-trained in food service, distribution, delivery routes, and basic computer tasks to support efficient daily operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Food service or customer service experience preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with assistance.

Responsibilities

• Serve as host at meal sites and food distribution locations.
• Provide direct food service and complete required clean-up duties.
• Deliver meals on mobile meal routes as assigned.
• Pack and stage meals and food items for distribution by staff or volunteers.
• Count and verify food items for accuracy before departure.

Skills

Driver's license

Customer service

Communication

Time management

Dependability

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

The Nutrition Associate I supports CAC’s Nutrition Services program by assisting with meal packing, delivery, and food distribution to clients throughout Knox County.

Working under the supervision of the Nutrition Coordinator, Nutrition Manager, and Director, this part-time position provides front-line customer service to clients and volunteers while ensuring safe, accurate, and timely meal service. The Nutrition Associate I is cross trained in food service, food distribution, delivery routes, and basic computer operations to support efficient daily operations.

Work is primarily Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend shifts and holiday work (including Thanksgiving and Christmas).

CAC Nutrition Services is committed to providing nutritious meals and food access to seniors and vulnerable populations throughout Knox County. We are dedicated to delivering services with dignity, professionalism, and compassion.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented communities to apply.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Meal Service & Distribution

• Serve as host at congregate meal sites and food distribution locations.
• Provide direct food service and complete required clean-up duties.
• Deliver meals on mobile meal routes as assigned.
• Pack and stage meals and food items for distribution by staff or volunteers.
• Count and verify food items before leaving distribution points or upon receipt to ensure accuracy.
• Follow meal orders and adjust counts based on reservations and cancellations.
• Adjust food orders, routes, and deliveries based on client changes.
• Dispose of or return food items according to CAC procedures.
• Maintain cleanliness of work areas and complete assigned cleaning tasks.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Monitor food quality and adhere to food safety requirements (temperatures, times, dates, logs, and reporting).
• Handle food in a safe and sanitary manner at all times.
• Complete and submit required food service logs and documentation accurately and legibly.
• Report errors, concerns, or food safety issues promptly to supervisors.

Client Services & Administrative Support

• Greet clients and assist with applications, assessments, and required documentation.
• Review forms for accuracy and contact clients to verify or update information as needed.
• Accurately record attendance, food orders, and distribution logs.
• Collect client contributions in accordance with CAC procedures.
• Communicate effectively with Nutrition staff regarding food acceptability and client satisfaction.
• Maintain positive working relationships with staff at distribution locations.
• Respond appropriately to client or volunteer emergencies and notify supervisors or authorities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Valid Tennessee Driver’s License required; daily use of a reliable personal vehicle preferred (mileage reimbursed).
• Knowledge of Knox County geographic area.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with assistance (physical exam required; paid by CAC).
• Reading and math skills at or above a sixth-grade level.
• Ability to perform basic computer, tablet, and smartphone functions.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, schedules, and diagrams.
• Dependable, mature, and professional with excellent time and attendance.
• Ability to work early to midday schedules.
• Commitment to food safety and adherence to established guidelines and procedures

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience required.
• Food service and/or customer service experience preferred.
• Experience working with elderly individuals, vulnerable populations, or volunteers preferred.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

CAC offers an excellent part-time employee benefits package including

• Pension plan contributions (20+ hours)
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and generous holidays

SKILL LEVEL: 5, Starting at $14.75 hr/$19,175 annually

An Equal Opportunity Employer