Kitchen Assistant Coordinator

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”.