School Kitchen Assistant

Federal Way School District Nutrition Services Department is dedicated to providing nutritious and high-quality meals to students and staff at various schools within the district. As a public school district headquartered in Federal Way, Washington, it places a strong emphasis on ensuring that every student has access to balanced meals in a safe and supportive environment. The department operates under strict guidelines from the State of Washington and King County Department of Health, adhering to food safety standards and school board policies to promote health and wellness among students. The Nutrition Services Department is part of the broader educational mission of the Federal Way School District, aimed at fostering a positive and inclusive environment that respects the dignity of all students, especially those receiving free and reduced meals.

The role of a School Kitchen Assistant within the Federal Way School District is essential to the daily operations of school cafeterias. This position is responsible for preparing and serving meals with a focus on quality, safety, and sanitation. The assistant works under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, supporting meal preparation, lunch set-up, and clean-up activities. Key responsibilities include plating food, serving meals, handling cash and tickets, maintaining accurate meal records, and verifying deliveries such as milk. School Kitchen Assistants are also tasked with maintaining cleanliness throughout the kitchen and cashier areas and ensuring food displays are attractive to students. Providing positive and professional service to students and staff is paramount, along with maintaining confidentiality around students who qualify for subsidized meal programs.

Working as a School Kitchen Assistant requires adherence to district protocols, including compliance with health and safety regulations and ethical guidelines concerning confidentiality and respectful engagement with students and staff. The position demands physical stamina as it involves prolonged standing, lifting heavy items up to 50 pounds, and maneuvering through a kitchen environment with various equipment. Employees must possess a valid Food Handler's Permit and, if required, a Washington state driver’s license. This role operates within a unionized environment under the Public School Employees Union (PSE) SEIU Local 1948, offering compensation aligned with Level A on the Nutrition Services Department PSE Salary Schedule. Benefits accompanying this position include medical, dental, vision coverage, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, and retirement plans, prorated based on full-time equivalency.

Ideal candidates are those with a high school diploma or equivalent, who are reliable team players committed to the mission of the Federal Way School District Nutrition Services. Prior experience in the service industry, especially involving public interaction and cash handling, is preferred along with basic computer literacy. Knowledge of the National School Lunch Program and membership in relevant professional associations such as ASFSA and WSFSA are advantages. The School Kitchen Assistant plays a key role in supporting the nutritious meal service integral to the student experience, fostering an environment where all students receive meals with dignity and care.