FNS Specialist - Kitchen Safety Technician (Hodges)

Forney, TX, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Job Description

Hodges Elementary School, part of the Mesquite Independent School District (Mesquite ISD), is committed to providing high-quality education and support services to its students. The school is renowned for fostering a nurturing environment where students, staff, and the community come together to promote learning, growth, and healthy lifestyles. As part of the district's Food and Nutrition Services, Hodges Elementary School upholds strict standards concerning food safety, nutrition, and quality to ensure students receive nutritious meals that support their academic and physical development.

This Full-Time position of Auxiliary Food Service Worker at Hodges Elementary School is a vital role within the school's Food & Nutrition Services Department. Reporting directly to the Food & Nutrition Services Manager, this non-exempt role plays a key part in the preparation, service, and maintenance of the school’s meal programs in compliance with state and federal guidelines. The position involves preparing appropriate quantities of food by following tested, standardized recipes, ensuring high standards of food quality, sanitation, and safety. The Auxiliary Food Service Worker will assist with storage, care of food items, and equipment operation while maintaining a clean and organized environment. Beyond food preparation, the role includes cashier responsibilities, inventory support, and documentation duties necessary for smooth daily operations. Employees in this position are expected to promote teamwork, communicate effectively, and maintain excellent personal hygiene and appearance. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food service in an educational environment and are dedicated to working collaboratively to support child nutrition programs. Employment begins as soon as possible, offering a rewarding career opportunity within the school district with a structured wage based on Mesquite ISD’s Compensation Plans.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Must be able to read and interpret recipes
Ability to follow oral instructions
Certified fitness evaluation required
Must obtain Health Department Food Handlers Card within 30 days of employment
Completion of accredited sanitation course and maintain certification required
Must have and maintain Manager's Certification
Working knowledge of kitchen equipment and food production
Knowledge of child nutrition program regulations
Effective communication skills
Positive public relations skills
Strong interpersonal abilities
Ability to manage time effectively
Ability to work independently
Experience in large-scale food preparation preferred.

Job Qualifications

Must be able to read and interpret recipes
Ability to follow oral instructions for food preparation and safety procedures
Certified fitness evaluation
Health Department Food Handlers Card within 30 calendar days of employment
Completion of an accredited sanitation course and maintain certification
Must have completed and maintain the Managers Certification
Working knowledge of kitchen equipment and food production
Knowledge and awareness of district, state and federal requirements in Child Nutrition Programs
Effective communication skills
Positive public relations and strong interpersonal skills
Appropriate time management
Ability to work with limited supervision
Experience with large-scale cooking and food preparation/serving preferred.

Job Duties

Prepare quality food according to a planned menu of tested, standardized recipes
Assist with the storage and care of food items and supplies
Maintain a clean and organized storage area
Care for and use equipment in a safe and efficient manner
Serve food according to meal schedules, departmental procedures and policies
Follow established procedures to ensure standards of quality, compliance, cleanliness, health, and safety
Handle and record cashier functions accurately
Assist in recording food requisitions and request orders of necessary supplies
Record all required documentation accurately and consistently
Maintain personal appearance and hygiene
Follow the chain of command as outlined in the FNS Handbook
Promote teamwork and interaction with fellow staff members
Be available for work on a consistent and timely basis with infrequent unplanned absences
Ensure all food items are prepared and served according to recipe/instructions
Complete Kitchen Safety Technician Daily Checklist and Monthly Checklist on time
Review tech and production sheets to ensure completeness and legibility
Facilitate or assist Kitchen Manager with HACCP training
Ensure safety and quality of food guidelines, health codes, and safety regulations are followed during food production
Review temperature logs on all equipment and report any discrepancies
Communicate work order requests effectively and timely to the Kitchen Manager
Perform assigned duties in a timely manner
Take responsibility for actions, results, and mistakes
Accept transfers to other campuses for short-term or long-term assignments
Document 6 hours of Professional Standard hours each school year
Perform other duties as assigned
Give and receive feedback positively and resolve conflicts respectfully
Respect individual talents and diversity to enhance unit effectiveness.