Dietary Staff

Position Summary

The Dietary Staff is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in a licensed child care setting. This role ensures all food is prepared in accordance with the Canada Food Guide, the Child Care and Early Years Act, Public Health requirements, and organizational policies and procedures. The Dietary Staff develops balanced and appealing menus that accommodate allergies, special dietary needs, cultural preferences, and special occasions while maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen operations.

Working independently, the Dietary Staff manages menu planning, food purchasing, inventory control, food preparation, kitchen sanitation, and equipment maintenance while adhering to budget guidelines. The role also supports program staff by providing guidance on children's dietary restrictions, allergy management, and safe food handling practices. The Dietary Staff contributes to a positive and healthy learning environment by ensuring children receive nutritious meals and snacks that support their growth and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and develop nutritious, balanced menus in accordance with the Canada Food Guide and the Child Care and Early Years Act.


• Prepare, cook, and serve two daily snacks and one hot meal, adjusting quantities based on daily attendance.


• Accommodate special dietary requirements, food allergies, and nutritional restrictions.


• Purchase food and kitchen supplies while maintaining inventory levels and adhering to budget requirements.


• Maintain proper food storage, stock rotation, and inventory control practices.


• Prepare food for special events, celebrations, field trips, and seasonal activities.


• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, Public Health regulations, and organizational policies.


• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen environment, including cleaning equipment and food preparation areas.


• Provide guidance to program staff regarding children's dietary needs, allergy awareness, and safe food handling practices.


• Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance or repair needs as required.


• Complete centre laundry related to meal service operations.


• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.


• Stay current with evolving nutritional guidelines, food safety standards, and best practices in child nutrition.

Qualifications and Other Pertinent Details

Requires an individual who has a two (2) year college diploma in Food Services or similar program and a current Food Safety Training Certificate.  Requires a combination of up to two (2) years previous and on-the-job experience and knowledge of the Public Health Regulations, Canada Food Guide and the Child Care and Early Years Act.  The successful candidate will have effective communication skills, the ability to set priorities, adhere to a tight schedule, deal with interruptions, unpredictable conditions and adapt to daily changes to schedules and routine.  This position requires the ability to perform physical activities that include regular lifting, pulling and standing for long periods of time.  Must have Standard First Aid and Infant/Child CPR certifications.  Access to reliable transportation is also required. 

Compensation

Union: CUPE 126, Job Class 6

Permanent Part-Time

Hourly Rate: $32.13 - $34.14

Advertisement Closing Date

Monday November 5, 2026 at 11:59pm

Accommodation Needs and Protection of Privacy

The City of Peterborough is an organization that strives to embrace the spirit of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier-free environment in which all individuals have access to the City's goods, services, and facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise People and Culture if you require an accommodation.

The personal information submitted for employment is collected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. We thank you for your application but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.