Description:
The Nutrition Assistant position at Southern Utah University (SUU) supports the Nutrition Specialist in planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks to children at the center while fostering an engaging environment through daily interactions and hands-on food experiments.
Geared primarily toward SUU students enrolled in health-related or childcare programs, this role offers practical experience with key child nutrition initiatives, including the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program and the Teaching Obesity Prevention program, with shift availability required during morning (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM) or afternoon (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM) hours.
Responsibilities:
- Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals and snacks for children enrolled at the center
- Maintain a clean, hygienic kitchen environment, including washing and sanitizing dishes and food preparation surfaces.
- Learn and adhere to guidelines established by the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program and the Teaching Obesity Prevention program.
- Interact daily with young children and oversee interactive, educational food experiments.
Qualifications:
- Applicant must be currently enrolled at Southern Utah University.
- Must complete required preservice training after hire.
- Must be supportive of the SUU Center for Hope vision, policies and procedures.
- Must be willing to abide by the SUU Center for Hope Code of Conduct.
- Must demonstrate ability to work respectfully with low-income children and families, those with special needs, and families with diverse ethnic backgrounds.
- Must be able to pass a Child Care Licensing Background Check and must not have a substantiated case of child abuse on record.
- Must be willing and able to use Top Star and High quality nutrition guidelines when preparing food.
- Must be self motivated, have a good work ethic, and be proactive, especially when working alone.
- Must have basic cooking and baking skills.
- Experience with young children in child care, preschool, and/or other settings is preferred but not required.
- Preference may be given to individuals who have an open or flexible schedule, can work mornings hours, and will be available to work through the spring and summer semesters.