2026-27 - Central Kitchen Assistant 2

The Federal Way School District's Nutrition Services department is dedicated to providing nutritious and appealing meals to students across its various schools. Central Kitchen Assistant 2 plays a vital role within this dynamic environment, contributing to the preparation and assembly of meals in compliance with the National School Lunch Program regulations, Department of Health rules, and Nutrition Services Department protocols. As a part of one of the region's committed public school districts, this role embodies the values and mission of promoting health, safety, and quality in every meal served to students. The Federal Way School District aims to foster a supportive and efficient working atmosphere that prioritizes the welfare of its students, staff, and community by adhering to stringent food safety and sanitation standards.

The Central Kitchen Assistant 2 is a multifaceted position that involves working in various food production areas including bakery, salad preparation, cooking, and other centralized kitchen functions. This role goes beyond simple food preparation to include assembling meal components in an attractive and sanitary manner. The position requires attention to detail, efficiency, and a strong understanding of food safety regulations to ensure meals are produced safely and meet nutritional guidelines.

The assistant will support all phases of food preparation, maintain cleanliness and order throughout production areas, and assist in loading the correct portion sizes for meals consistent with scheduled service times and events. This position also provides essential back-up support when receiving lunch counts from schools and assists with order fulfillment. Additionally, the Central Kitchen Assistant 2 may be required to work directly in schools, operating Point of Sale systems and supporting meal service activities, which highlights the need for adaptability and teamwork.

Working collaboratively within the district’s Nutrition Services team, the assistant will maintain a clean, safe workspace, including common areas such as the employee coffee room. The position demands adherence to a variety of standards including federal, state, and local food safety codes, as well as the school district’s policies and protocols. A strong commitment to cultural competence and equity is also fundamental in this role, striving to foster an inclusive environment where diversity is respected and every individual is treated equitably.

Physical demands of this role include the need to lift and carry food items and supplies, occasionally up to heavy weights, and the ability to maneuver within a busy kitchen environment with heavy equipment and tight spaces. Typical work conditions involve exposure to varying temperatures, from walk-in freezers to hot production areas, and require the flexibility to travel to multiple school sites.

The position is classified under the Public School Employees of Washington (PSE) salary schedule, which includes comprehensive benefits that support employee well-being such as medical, dental, vision coverage, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, and retirement plans. The work schedule generally consists of an eight-hour day from Monday through Friday during the school calendar year.

The Central Kitchen Assistant 2 position reports directly to the Director of Nutrition Services or their designee, contributing to the overall goal of delivering high-quality meals that support student health and success. This role is designed for individuals who are conscientious, proactive, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and service within the school nutrition field.