· Plans and prepares foods under the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Head Start Food Service Policy, Menus, and Recipes in such a way that a minimum of nutrients is lost from foods.
· Ensure that foods taste good and look appealing, and that there are ample amounts of foods for children to have as many servings as they need.
· Purchases food and supplies necessary to prepare the planned menus.
· Plans meals far enough in advance to minimize the need for food substitutions, considering menus for children's field trips; notes all modifications and substitutes on the posted menu and for CACFP records.
· Modifies menus and recipes and prepares foods to meet the developmental needs of infants and toddlers and the medical and feeding needs of children with disabilities or food allergies with the guidance of the contracted Nutritionist.
· Maintains established standards of sanitation, safety, and food preparation and storage as set by the local and state health departments; maintains an orderly, sanitary, and safe kitchen.
· Delivers food from the kitchen to the classrooms ready to be served, suitable for the children's age and development. (See guidance)
· Maintains cost control, budget, and inventory systems based on CAFCP procedures, including records of food production, service, and attendance.
· Assures the proper care and maintenance of all food service equipment; identifies equipment needs for food preparation and service, and assists in purchasing as needed.
· Assists teachers with developing food activities for the children in the classroom.
· Cooperates with and participates in nutrition education activities for staff, parents, and children.
· Participates in all emergency drills and environmental safety activities.
· Attends and participates in grantee-sponsored trainings, center pre-service and in-service trainings, and other continuing education, career, and professional development opportunities.
· Participates in the agency's self-evaluation process and grantee monitoring visits and complies with any applicable Program Improvement Plans developed.
· Participates in general staff meetings and other meetings and events planned by the grantee and delegate agency as requested.
· Performs other duties, as assigned.
· Is required by the State of Arizona, the Office of Head Start, and the Cocopah Tribal Social Services to be a mandated reporter of child abuse and neglect.
Including records of food service and attendance.
