Child Care & Nutrition Specialist

The Child Care & Nutrition Specialist is responsible for the operation of the food service program and supporting nutrition education for children and families at the site. This role implements the cycle menu and monitors dietary needs and food allergies, ensuring all children receive appropriate meals. The Child Care & Nutrition Specialist performs housekeeping duties and maintains cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen and storage areas, in compliance with regulations, assists with food service reports and maintains per ISBE Child and Adult Care Program, city, state, and federal standards.

The pay for this position is $17.14 per hour with opportunities to grow within the organization.  This is a Union position.

Scope of Responsibilities:

• Implement cycle menu in accordance with policies, procedures, and practices according to Head Start Program Performance Standards and guidelines established by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).


• Meal preparation and distribution for center-based program (breakfast, lunch, and snack) according to the Child and Adult Care Food Program “time of day meal service” and portion guidelines.


• Prepare and set-up meals for parent meetings, special events, and for field trips.


• Monitor and record meal temperatures upon receipt, and proper holding temperature for food service pers USDA guidelines.


• Cleaning and sanitation of the food preparation environment, equipment, and supplies.


• Collaborate with Site Director, Family Support Specialist, and other department staff to ensure provision of optimal nutritional needs and care for all children.


• Report all nutrition, special diets, and sanitation needs and concerns verbally and in writing to Site Director.


• Assist in classrooms during meals to model and support family style meals, encourage children to try new foods.


• Assist and support teachers with set-up and implementing monthly healthy/nutritious food experiences with children; and overall program with identifying and sharing monthly nutrition resources for families.


• Assisting in the classrooms as a floater/TA, as needed, while following all policies and procedures


• Maintains food safety and sanitation kitchen as mandated by the Chicago Health Department (service areas, utensils, equipment, and food storage).


• Posts and maintains all required Child and Adult Care Food public notices in the kitchen.


• Maintains all required Child and Adult Care Food Program documentation and assists in completing monthly food monitoring and reporting as instructed by supervisor of Management.


• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge related to child nutrition, health, and safety; attend and complete not less than 15 clock hours of professional development per year.


• Participate in team meetings, staffing nutrition-related activities, and required staff training.


• Other job-related and programmatic duties as assigned.


• Discreetly handle sensitive information and always maintain confidentiality.

Minimum Requirements: 

• High school diploma or equivalent


• Ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively in a team environment.


• Relate well to children, children, parents, administrators and other staff members.


• Capacity to learn and master new technologies and tools.


• Ability to work under minimal supervision and exercise initiative and judgment in performing job.


• Time management and organizational skills.


• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.


• Capacity to manage and use computer networks to receive and share information, collect and exchange data.


• Ability to complete reports and keep accurate detailed records and documentation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in food service or a related field is preferred, but not mandatory.


• Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene practices.


• Food Service Sanitation Certificate or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.


• Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice.


• Ability to obtain DCFS background check clearance and provide pre-employment medical screening documentation.


• Meet physical qualifications required as outlined in the job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.

Child Abuse Prevention - Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor


• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children


• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor


• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required