2026-27 - School Kitchen Assistant

Federal Way School District Nutrition Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, nutritious meals to students and staff across multiple schools in the district. The department plays a vital role in supporting the health and academic success of students by ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and pleasant meal experiences each school day. Upholding strict standards related to food safety, sanitation, and positive customer service is central to the mission of Federal Way School District nutrition services. The organization is committed to cultural competence and equity, fostering a welcoming environment for its diverse community.

The role of a School Kitchen Assistant is essential within this framework. School Kitchen Assistants work directly under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager and Nutrition Services leadership to prepare and serve meals that meet the district’s nutrition guidelines and state health regulations. This position involves hands-on responsibilities, including meal preparation, food service, meal transaction handling, and maintaining impeccable cleanliness and organization within kitchen and cashier areas. The assistant must be able to perform duties such as plating food, preparing sandwiches, conducting cash transactions, operating point of sale systems, and documenting meals served in accordance with department protocols.

School Kitchen Assistants must ensure that all meals are prepared and served in a safe, sanitary manner while preserving the confidentiality and dignity of students who benefit from free or reduced-price meals. The role extends to collaborative work with district staff and fostering positive relationships with students and coworkers. Special attention to cultural competence and equitable treatment is expected to align with Federal Way Public Schools’ core values.

This position requires physical stamina, including the ability to lift heavy items, stand for extended periods, and maneuver in constrained kitchen environments. Candidates must also be comfortable working in varying temperature conditions such as walk-in refrigerators and freezers. The varied work schedule is aligned with building meal times and could include early morning or mid-day shifts to accommodate school needs.

The employment classification for this job is Level A in the Nutrition Services Department on the Public School Employees union salary schedule. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, and retirement plans, prorated based on full-time equivalency. The School Kitchen Assistant role offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to community health and student well-being while working in a supportive, team-oriented work environment governed by clear ethical standards and compliance requirements.