Nutrition Services Helper - Downing ES

Tacoma Public Schools

Expected

Start Date:

January 19, 2026, or sooner. FTE: 0.4375 (3.5 hours per day). Salary Level: FS/OA/2, $21.13/hr work

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 10:00am – 1:30pm. Benefits:
Full range of benefits offered by Tacoma Public Schools.

Examples of Duties:
This position performs general kitchen duties assigned by the Cook‑Manager (or Satellite‑Cashier in a satellite school) such as service in the cafeteria, food preparation, or clean‑up duties.

• Operates dishwashing equipment; wipes down tables and service areas; cleans kitchen equipment; cleans sink, drain board and food preparation areas.
• Assists in routine food preparation activities.
• Serves food items to students and staff as assigned.
• Maintains neat and clean work environment; cleans and stores equipment and tools when job has been completed.
• Follows good safety and sanitation procedures.

• Performs related duties as assigned.

May be exposed to infectious diseases; experiences frequent interruptions; required to operate kitchen equipment; may be exposed to general cleaning chemicals; experiences high noise levels; may work in freezer and/or refrigeration units for extended periods of time; may be required to shift tasks and priorities; required to stand and walk for prolonged periods; required to perform repetitive tasks; required to assume positions, perform movements and demonstrate stamina and exertions needed to prepare meals and clean up;

may be required to travel to District sites or other sites within the community.

Food service work experience desirable; current and successful demonstration in working on the substitute‑helper level; or any combination of experience and training which provides the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and ability required to perform the work. No high school diploma or GED required. District offering incentives to obtain diploma or GED.

• Knowledge of safety and sanitation rules and procedures.
• Knowledge of English usage including spelling and reading.
• Skill in logical thinking.
• Skill in operating commercial kitchen equipment.
• Skill in quality customer service.
• Skill in communication.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic.
• Ability to learn operating procedures for institutional‑sized kitchen work.
• Ability to follow instructions and accept constructive criticism.
• Ability to consistently lift/move up to 20 pounds, occasionally lift/move up to 25 pounds and occasionally team lift/move up to 50 pounds in accordance with established guidelines and using proper safety precautions.
• Ability to obtain, clarify and exchange information.
• Ability to concentrate on tasks at hand.
• Ability to work as a part of a team.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work.
• Ability to maintain neat appearance and good personal hygiene.
• Ability to demonstrate reasonable, reliable and regular attendance.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of people in a multi‑cultural, diverse socio‑economic setting.

• Current Food and Beverage Handler’s permit.
• Valid Washington State driver’s license with access to personal transportation.
• Fingerprints and successful WSP and FBI background clearance/sexual misconduct clearance.

Tacoma Public Schools Does Not Discriminate In Any Programs Or Activities On The Basis Of Sex, Race, Ethnicity, Creed, Religion, Color, National Origin, Immigration Or Citizenship Status, Age, Veteran Or Military Status, Sexual Orientation, Gender Expression, Gender Identity, Homelessness, Disability, Neurodivergence, Or The Use Of a Trained Dog Guide Or Service Animal And Provides Equal Access To The Boy Scouts And Other Designated Youth Groups.

The Following Employees Have Been Designated To Handle Questions And Complaints Of Alleged Discrimination:
Civil Rights Coordinator, Gender‑Inclusive Schools Coordinator, and Title IX Coordinator:
Tiffany Davis‑Brantley – 253‑571‑1252, civil rights.wa.us. Section 504 Coordinator:
Laura Tuman – 253‑571‑1086, 504

Coordinator.wa.us.