Kitchen Assistant Coordinator
Description
About Operation Breakthrough
Operation Breakthrough is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping children living in poverty reach their full potential. We provide a safe, loving, and educational environment while supporting families through advocacy, referrals, and emergency aid.
Job Summary
The Kitchen Assistant Coordinator ensures food purchasing, inventory and record keeping are maintained in accordance with the Child and Adult Care Food (CACFP) and state guidelines. In the absence of any regular kitchen staff, the Assistant Coordinator becomes backup to support kitchen needs. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills are essential.
Qualifications
- Multiple years of supervisory experience in institutional food service and commercial kitchens, preferably in a non-profit environment
- Knowledge of CACFP and Head Start compliance standards
- Maintain current Manager’s Food Preparation Certification
- Ability to lift and move objects up to 45 lbs.
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- High school diploma required
- Clerical skills including but not limited to:
Software and tech proficiency: Operating Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Data Entry
- Recordkeeping
- Bookkeeping
- Calendar Management
- Time management and multitasking
- Attention to detail
- Customer service
Key Responsibilities
- Create seasonal menus meeting CACFP criteria
- Purchase food and supplies necessary for meal preparation
- Maintain accurate purchasing and serving records in compliance with CACFP, the Delegate Agency, and Grantee requirements.
- Use cooking methods that preserve nutrients and meet sanitation standards.
- Deliver meals to classrooms ready for family-style service.
- Organize kitchen operations efficiently, ensuring timely meal service and inventory control.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Meal Planning & Preparation
Plans and prepares meals following CACFP and Head Start Food Service Policy, approved menus, and recipes
Purchasing & Inventory
Orders food and supplies based on enrollment numbers and staff needs
Organizes and maintains inventory of food and supplies
Maintains cost control and inventory systems in line with CACFP procedures
Keeps records of food production, service, recipes, menus and attendance
Coordinates with vendors
Menu Modifications
Plans meals in advance to reduce substitutions
Produces recipes for homemade items
With Nutritionist guidance, modifies menus for field trips and special dietary needs
Documents changes and needed records for CACFP compliance
Food Quality & Safety
Prepares meals to preserve nutrients and enhance taste and presentation
Delivers food to classrooms in age-appropriate portions and formats
Maintains sanitation and safety standards per local and state health regulations
Ensures proper care and maintenance of kitchen equipment and assists with purchasing needs
Inclusive Nutrition
Adapts recipes to meet the needs of infants, toddlers, and children with disabilities or allergies
Collaborates with the contracted Nutritionist when necessary to ensure dietary accommodations are met
Team Collaboration
Shares cooking and/or kitchen aide responsibilities with the Kitchen Supervisor to support smooth kitchen operations
WORKING CONDITIONS
Indoor work environment, industrial kitchen.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of an employee.
Operation Breakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with Operation Breakthrough is “At Will”.