Position: Kitchen Assistant

Primary supervisor: Academy Director

Job Location: Arden, NC

Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Summary of Position:  The Kitchen Assistant supports the Lead Chef in preparing and serving nutritious meals while helping maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized kitchen environment. This role plays an important part in caring for preschool aged children by ensuring meals are prepared with excellence, consistency, and attention to detail.

Essential Qualities and Qualifications: 

• A personal and active relationship with Jesus Christ modeled by a commitment to supporting the vision, leadership, and theology of Biltmore Church

• An expressed passion and calling for serving Jesus in a Kingdom-minded, fast-paced, local church setting

• Demonstrates initiative with an ability to work effectively apart from close supervision

• Previous kitchen experience is required.

• Experience in food preparation and kitchen management, preferably in a childcare setting.

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations and ability to adhere to all sanitation and licensing regulations.

• Reliable and consistent in attendance and performance

• Able to follow directions well while also anticipating needs in a fast-paced environment

• Punctual and able to manage time effectively to support meal schedules

• Strong attention to detail, especially in food preparation and cleanliness

• Team-oriented with a positive and servant-hearted attitude

Essential Responsibilities: 

Meal Preparation & Service

• Assist in preparing, cooking, and serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet USDA and DCDEE meal pattern requirements

• Support the timely delivery of meals to classrooms in accordance with the daily schedule

• Follow proper portioning and food handling procedures appropriate for each age group

Health, Safety & Sanitation Compliance

• Maintain full compliance with all NC DCDEE sanitation, health, and safety regulations

• Follow proper food storage, labeling, and temperature guidelines

• Ensure all surfaces, equipment, and utensils are cleaned and sanitized according to required standards

• Assist in maintaining records as required for inspections and licensing

Kitchen Maintenance & Organization

• Maintain a clean, orderly, and sanitary kitchen environment at all times

• Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, utensils, and equipment

• Ensure kitchen equipment is used and maintained according to safety guidelines

Inventory & Supply Management

• Assist with monitoring food and supply inventory to ensure adequate quantities are maintained

• Support ordering and receiving food and kitchen supplies in accordance with center procedures

Professional Development & Training

• Complete all required DCDEE training and ongoing professional development hours

• Maintain current certifications as required (e.g., food safety training, sanitation training)

Additional Duties

• Support overall kitchen operations as directed by the Lead Chef or Academy leadership

• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure compliance and smooth daily operations