Rainier - Food Service Substitute Pool (2026-2027)

Sylvania; Rainier (WA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Rainier School District is seeking dependable individuals to join our Food Services Substitute Pool for the school year. This on-call, open-pool role offers flexible shifts aligning with the school calendar and sites.

Responsibilities include food prep, serving meals, sanitation, inventory, and positive student interactions. Required WA State Food Worker Card (or within 14 days), background checks, Vector Solutions training, and a high school diploma or GED.

Qualifications

• Washington State Food Worker Card required or obtained within 14 days of hire.
• Background clearance (WA State Patrol and FBI) required for all WA public school employees.
• Completion of Vector Solutions safety courses prior to active substitute list.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 35–50 lbs and stand/walk for 3–6 hours.

Responsibilities

• Assist with basic food preparation and portioning according to guidelines.
• Set up serving lines and serve meals to students and staff.
• Wash dishes and sanitize kitchen areas and equipment.
• Restock serving lines and assist with end-of-shift closeout.
• Maintain positive interactions with students and staff.
• Follow all state, local, and district food safety policies.

Skills

Strong communication

Flexibility

Teamwork

Customer service

Education

WA State Food Worker Card

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Vector Solutions Training

I-9 verification

Job description

THIS IS AN OPEN POSTING FOR SUBSTITUTE FOOD SERVICE WORKERS - APPLICATIONS WILL BE SCREENED AS NECESSARY.

The Rainier School District is seeking dependable, energetic individuals to join our Food Services Substitute Pool. Substitute Food Service Workers play a vital role in ensuring our students receive healthy, nutritious meals every day in a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.

This is an on-call, open-pool position for the school year. Shifts vary by school site and need, making it an ideal role for individuals seeking flexible schedules that align with the school calendar.

Key Responsibilities

• Food Preparation: Assist with basic food preparation, including cutting vegetables, assembling sandwiches/salads, portioning meals, and heating items following USDA and local health guidelines.
• Meal Service: Set up serving lines, serve meals to students and staff efficiently and cheerfully.
• Sanitation & Safety: Wash dishes, trays, pots, and utensils; sanitize food preparation areas, kitchen equipment, and dining tables according to state health standards.
• Inventory & Maintenance: Help restock serving lines, store deliveries, and assist with end-of-shift kitchen closeout procedures.
• Student Interaction: Maintain a positive, courteous, and friendly atmosphere in the cafeteria.
• Compliance: Follow all state, local, and district food safety, sanitation, and safety policies.

Qualifications:

• Washington State Food Worker Card: Must possess a valid WA State Food Worker Card (or obtain one within 14 days of hire per RCW/WAC guidelines).
• Background Check: Successful completion of a Washington State Patrol and FBI fingerprint background clearance (required for all WA public school employees).
• Mandatory Vector Solutions Training: All applicants are required to complete assigned online Vector Solutions compliance and safety courses (e.g., Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, Hazard Communication) as a condition of employment prior to being placed on the active substitute list.
• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
• Verification of identity and employment eligibility (Form I-9).
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects up to 35-50 lbs regularly (e.g., cases of milk, food trays, bulk ingredients)
• Ability to stand and walk on hard surfaces for the duration of a 3 to 6 hour shift.
• Capability to perform repetitive motions (chopping, scooping, washing dishes) and work in kitchen environments with varying temperatures (cookers, hot cooking areas).

Preferred Skills:

• Previous commercial kitchen, cafeteria, or food service experience.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work well with school staff, volunteers, and K-12 students.

Supplemental Information:

• The State of Washington requires a State and Federal Fingerprint check before hiring any new employee.
• Cost of the background check and fingerprint is the responsibility of the prospective employee.
• Employment is on an as needed basis
• Position not eligible for benefits
• Potential shifts include 7:00am-1:30pm and 9:30am - 12:30pm

REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS:

• Food Service Worker Card

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rainier School District provides equal opportunity for all applicants and staff in recruitment, hiring, retention, assignment, transfer, promotion, and training. Such equal employment opportunity shall be provided without discrimination with respect to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, pregnancy, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a trained guide dog or service animal, or any other basis prohibited bylaw. We also provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.

Inquiries concerning equal employment opportunity or compliance may be directed to:

• Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Kristin Robinson | [e-mail] | 360-446-2205 | P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
• Bilingual Programs & ADA Coordinator: Justin Gurnsey | [e-mail] | 360-446-7406 | P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
• Section 504 Coordinator: John Beckman | [e-mail] | 360-446-2205 | P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576