School Nutrition Worker (Cafeteria)

Job Title:

School Nutrition Worker

Reports To:

Child Nutrition Director / Cafeteria Manager

Department:

School Nutrition Services (Child Nutrition Program)

Primary Purpose

Prepare and serve nutritious meals to students and staff in a safe, efficient, and sanitary environment while supporting the district’s Child Nutrition Program in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The School Nutrition Worker contributes to a positive school climate by providing courteous service and promoting healthy eating habits for students.

Qualifications

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within the required timeframe)
• Completion of required Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Child Nutrition training

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of basic food preparation and kitchen safety procedures
• Ability to follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines
• Understanding of sanitation and food safety practices
• Ability to operate kitchen equipment safely
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to work cooperatively with students, staff, and coworkers

Experience

• Previous food service or cafeteria experience preferred but not required

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Food Preparation and Service

• Prepare food items according to standardized recipes and menu requirements.
• Assist with cooking, baking, portioning, and serving meals.
• Serve students and staff with courtesy and professionalism.
• Ensure accurate meal portions consistent with USDA and TDA guidelines.
• Maintain serving lines to ensure efficiency during meal service.

Sanitation and Safety

• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, storage, and serving areas.
• Follow Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) procedures.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and equipment in accordance with sanitation standards.
• Properly store food items in accordance with temperature and safety requirements.
• Follow district safety procedures and report hazards immediately.

Program Compliance

• Comply with USDA, Texas Department of Agriculture, and district Child Nutrition Program regulations.
• Assist with inventory, receiving, and storage of food and supplies.
• Support accurate meal counting and accountability procedures.
• Participate in required training and professional development.

Customer Service and School Support

• Provide positive interactions with students that promote a welcoming cafeteria environment.
• Model respectful behavior aligned with district expectations.
• Support campus efforts to encourage healthy nutrition and student well-being.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Equipment Used

Commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, warmers, mixers, slicers, dishwashers, serving equipment, point-of-sale systems, and cleaning tools.

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying (up to 40 pounds).
• Exposure to hot surfaces, sharp utensils, and cleaning chemicals.
• Work performed in kitchen environments with varying temperatures.

Mental Demands

• Maintain productivity in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to follow directions and work within established routines and timelines.

Terms of Employment

• Work schedule in accordance with the approved school calendar.
• Salary and benefits are established by the district’s compensation plan.
• Employment is governed by district policies and applicable state and federal regulations.

Evaluation

Performance is evaluated annually in accordance with district procedures.