SUBSTITUTE CAFETERIA WORKER

Primary Purpose

Work under the direction of the Child Nutrition Manager to assist with the preparation and serving of meals when regular cafeteria staff are absent. Substitute cafeteria workers help ensure students receive safe, nutritious, and appealing meals while maintaining high standards for cleanliness, sanitation, and customer service.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• None required.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work cooperatively with cafeteria staff and students.
• Ability to learn and follow food preparation, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Ability to operate kitchen equipment and tools safely.
• Ability to perform basic math and handle simple cashier functions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing assignments.

Experience:

• Previous food service or cafeteria experience preferred, but not required.

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Food Preparation and Serving

1. Assist with preparing and serving meals according to the planned menu, standardized recipes, and established procedures.
2. Follow portion-control guidelines and meal service requirements.
3. Assist with setting up serving lines, preparing food items, and keeping the cafeteria service area organized.
4. Store and handle food and supplies safely and according to established procedures.
5. Assist with cleaning and storing kitchen equipment, utensils, and food service items.
6. Assist with proper handling and storage of leftovers and food products.

Safety and Sanitation

7. Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health procedures.
8. Operate kitchen equipment and tools according to established safety guidelines.
9. Maintain clean and sanitary work areas, serving areas, equipment, and storage areas.
10. Keep garbage collection containers and surrounding areas neat and sanitary.
11. Report unsafe conditions, equipment problems, or other concerns to the Child Nutrition Manager.
12. Maintain appropriate personal hygiene and appearance in accordance with district and Child Nutrition Department standards.

Customer Service and Teamwork

13. Provide courteous and respectful service to students and staff.
14. Work cooperatively with cafeteria staff and follow the direction of the Child Nutrition Manager or designated supervisor.
15. Maintain a positive and professional attitude when working with students, staff, and other members of the school community.
16. Assist wherever needed to support the efficient operation of the cafeteria.

Other Duties

17. Perform cashier duties and accurately handle and record meal transactions, as assigned.
18. Assist with daily food preparation, production, and other required records.
19. Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing food and supplies as directed.
20. Complete required food safety and continuing education training.
21. Follow all district policies, Child Nutrition Department procedures, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
22. Perform other duties as assigned by the Child Nutrition Manager or supervisor.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Work Schedule

• Substitute positions are as-needed and based on campus and Child Nutrition staffing needs.
• Assignments and work locations may vary depending on employee absences and district needs.
• Substitute cafeteria workers must be available to work during designated cafeteria meal service hours.