Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

Montessori Kids Universe is seeking a dependable, hardworking Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate to join our team. This combined role supports daily meal and snack preparation for children while maintaining a clean, organized, and health-compliant kitchen environment.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes to support children and staff, takes pride in cleanliness and organization, and can manage food preparation and dishwashing responsibilities efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Assist in planning monthly menus based on seasonality and nutritional guidelines

• Create a weekly shopping list for food and kitchen supplies

• Set up the kitchen with necessary tools and equipment for daily operations

• Prepare and portion snacks and catered lunches for classroom distribution

• Deliver snacks to classrooms at scheduled times

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels and restock when necessary

• Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations (local and state guidelines)

• Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures

Dishwashing & Sanitation

• Remove food from plates and pre-rinse dishes, glasses, and utensils

• Load and unload dishwasher properly and efficiently or wash using 3 compartment Sink

• Return clean items to appropriate storage areas

• Sweep and mop kitchen floors daily

• Monitor detergent and cleaning supply levels

• Perform general cleaning tasks as assigned by management

• Follow all health and safety guidelines

Team Collaboration

• Participate in team meetings

• Support staff needs related to meal service

• Perform other duties as assigned by administration

Qualifications

• Previous experience in food service, kitchen support, or similar role preferred

• ServSafe or Food Handler’s Certification (or willingness to obtain)

• Knowledge of basic culinary techniques and food safety practices

• Strong work ethic and reliability

• Positive attitude and friendly demeanor

• Excellent time management and organizational skills

• Attention to detail

• Ability to remain calm

• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, lifting, bending, and repetitive movement