Food Assistant

Overview

The Buehler YMCA preschool program team is hiring a part-time Food Assistant. The Food Assistant will assist in the general operation of the food service program in the preparation and serving of meals and will support our child-centered environment that promotes learning, character development, positive and nurturing relationships, and healthy living.

Pay is $16.60 per hour and opportunities to grow within the organization.

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

• Implements the cycle menu in accordance with policies, procedures, and established practices; includes adherence to DCFS standards, and the guidelines established by the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
• Prepares food needed for meals and snacks served on site and for field trips for center-based programs and home-based socializations.
• Meets the “time of day” meal service guidelines required by the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
• Joins the children and other staff at the table during mealtimes whenever possible.
• Cleans and maintains kitchen, food service utensils, equipment, and food storage areas to standards mandated by the Health Department and best practices with regards to food safety and sanitation.
• Assists with purchases and provides setup of foods for nutrition curriculum and children’s cooking projects in the classroom.
• Maintains all required Child and Adult Care Food Program paperwork, including menu production records, monthly adjustment sheets, food transport records, inventories, cycle menus, attendance sheets and food purchase receipts. Compiles monthly reports accurately and turns in all monthly documentation on time.
• Posts and maintains all required Child and Adult Care Food public notices.
• Refers child nutrition concerns to the Site Director.
• Participates in team meetings, nutrition-related activities, required in-services, and all Food Aide events and trainings.

• High school diploma or equivalent work/education experience.
• Must have ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the preparation of large quantities of food for institutions and related safety practices.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and follow instructions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Commitment to and passion for the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission is required including a passion for working with diverse communities.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and schedules.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Meet physical qualifications required as outlined in job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.
• Willingness and ability to complete all mandatory YMCA training and certifications, along with ongoing or additional training as assigned by the supervisor, within established timeframe.

• Support the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Follow all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including monitoring and supervision of children.
• Report any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Complete all child abuse prevention training as required.