Kitchen Assistant

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Youth Development Kitchen Staff will be directly responsible for purchasing, preparing, serving and storing all food for YMCA Programs. The Cook/Kitchen Assistant’s role is to provide a clean and healthy working environment. This is to be accomplished within the licensing regulations of the State of Colorado. You will assist with administrative and program details while having the opportunity to create positive and nurturing relationships with children. You will also be a role model in building cooperative relationships with the fellow staff.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

• Establish and maintain a safe, clean, sanitary and healthy environment in the kitchen through room arrangement and organization.
• Plan and prepare all meals and snacks to meet the requirements of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), Health Department & Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers. Provide Production Sheets for all meals.
• Serve all meals to children with staff assistance.
• Assist with ordering and purchasing all food needed. Ensure that all food items are stored properly.
• Wash dishes in compliance with guidelines.
• Post a menu in the kitchen. Any changes shall be recorded on the copies of the menu kept on file and posted for parents.
• Daily record keeping of production records which include food served and amounts provided.
• Completion of paperwork as needed for Food Program and/or Milk Program participation, if applicable.
• Attend staff meetings, staff trainings, orientation and in-service of 4 hours per year of kitchen sanitation, food handling and nutrition, provided by the YMCA and/or outside sources.
• Establish positive and productive relationships with children and families.
• Ensure smooth program operation that is responsive to participant needs.
• Attend to all state licensing regulations as well as YMCA quality standards. Adhere to OSHA standards and guidelines.
• See to the safe operation of all equipment utilized.
• Inform Food Service Director and Maintenance of any repairs in the kitchen area.
• Display and exemplify the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in all aspects of the job performance and in relationships with others.
• Perform other duties as assigned, to include assistance or coverage at other kitchen sites.
• Maintain an open, friendly, professional relationship with staff, parents, and children.
• Collaborate with other colleagues
• Be familiar with and adhere to the program’s policies, health and safety regulations, emergency procedures and be ready to implement if necessary.
• May be required to work hours outside of normal work schedule for training.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and respect to your fellow peers.
• Modeling good character and hygiene habits.

• 18 years of age or older
• Meet all food service personnel qualifications in Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers.
• Must have a physical exam, including TB test, within six months prior to beginning work or within 30 days after hire date.
• Must be able to lift, carry and load equipment, furnishings, and program supplies (up to 50 pounds).
• Must be comfortable with and able to work with children
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal and leadership skills
• Attention to detail
• Great amount of patience and flexibility
• Requires high energy levels, strong organization skills and knowledge of proper food handling, preparation, storage and cleaning aids.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION:

• I will support the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:
• Reporting any suspicious behaviors and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required
• Reporting any items that may provide a health and safety hazard to staff, members, or guests to you supervisor
• The YMCA has a zero tolerance policy for abuse. We will report all suspected and/or allegations of abuse to state and federal law.

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Complete Redwoods: Hazardous Communications (yearly), Sexual Harassment Prevention, Bloodborne Pathogens (yearly), Child Sexual Abuse Prevenition (yearly), and Behavior Management 101
• Complete and maintain ALL licensing and food program required forms, training, and background check requirements.
• Any Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) required certifications
• Any other required training to be able to prepare and serve food
•  Maintain CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer every 2 years; skills every year
• Maintain First Aid and Administering Emergency Oxygen every 2 years

You are responsible for staying compliant with ALL requirements. Non-compliance will result in
removal from the schedule and possible termination if non-compliance continues. 

• Free Family Membership 
• Program discounts
• Generous retirement benefits - 12% after eligibility is met
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Sick Time

OUR CULTURE: 
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.