Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist

Sheldon ISD; Sheldon (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

A local school district is seeking a Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist to assist in meal preparation and ensure safety compliance in food handling. Responsibilities include serving meals, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen, and providing excellent service in a fast-paced environment. Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma and preferably experience in food service or a school setting. The role requires good interpersonal skills and the ability to follow instructions closely.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe).
• Previous food service or cafeteria experience preferred.
• Experience working in a school setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing food items according to standardized recipes.
• Serve meals to students and staff following USDA meal requirements.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment.
• Provide courteous and professional service to students and staff.
• Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries.

Skills

Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation procedures

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Basic math skills for portion control and transactions

Ability to operate standard kitchen equipment

Ability to interact positively with students, staff, and visitors

Education

High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain)

Job description

• Position Type: Child Nutrition/ Child Nutrition Specialist Sub
• Date Posted: 11/21/2024
• Location: Sheldon ISD Child Nutrition

Primary Purpose

To assist in the preparation, serving, and clean‑up of meals in accordance with federal, state, and district child nutrition regulations. The Substitute Child Nutrition Specialist ensures safe food handling practices, maintains cleanliness standards, and supports efficient cafeteria operations in the absence of regular staff.

Qualifications

Education / Certification

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe)

Experience

• Previous food service or cafeteria experience preferred
• Experience working in a school setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation procedures
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment
• Basic math skills for portion control and point‑of‑sale transactions
• Ability to operate standard kitchen equipment
• Ability to interact positively with students, staff, and visitors

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Assist in preparing food items according to standardized recipes and portion guidelines
• Serve meals to students and staff following USDA meal pattern requirements
• Ensure proper portion sizes and presentation
• Replenish serving lines and food stations as needed
• Operate point‑of‑sale system for meal transactions when assigned

Sanitation & Safety

• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment
• Wash dishes, utensils, trays, and equipment
• Follow all HACCP guidelines and food safety procedures
• Monitor food temperatures and document as required
• Comply with district and health department standards

Customer Service

• Provide courteous and professional service to students and staff
• Assist younger students as needed

Operational Support

• Assist with receiving and storing food deliveries
• Rotate stock according to FIFO (First In, First Out) practices
• Set up and break down serving areas
• Support special meal programs or events as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Exposure to heat, cold, and kitchen equipment
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Work may require early morning hours

Physical Demands

• Continuous standing and walking
• Repetitive hand and arm motions
• Occasional lifting of food boxes, trays, or equipment

Other Duties

Perform other duties as assigned by the Cafeteria Manager or Child Nutrition Director.