Child Adult Care Food Program Specialist - Upbring

At Upbring, our team is united by a shared mission: to break the cycle of child abuse and empower others to do the same. As servant-leaders, we lead by example, working passionately to create a brighter future for the children and families we serve. Every day, we strive to embody our core values:

• We are Warriors: Fierce, resilient, and courageous, we face challenges head-on with unwavering loyalty and passion.
• We are Servants: We dedicate ourselves to serving others, empowering those around us to thrive.
• We are Family: We work together as a supportive, caring community, creating a sense of belonging and strength.

Joining Upbring means becoming part of a family of passionate individuals who are fearless in their pursuit of lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.

What You'll Do

The CACFP Specialist will play a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of children in the Head Start program by providing nutritional guidance, support, and education. This position involves collaborating with families, staff, and community resources to develop and implement effective nutrition programs that meet the dietary needs of children while adhering to Head Start regulations and guidelines along with USDA Standards for CACFP.

• Provide nutrition education to children, families, and staff through workshops, cooking demonstrations, and informational materials. Promote healthy eating habits and food choices.
• Collaborate with the kitchen staff to create balanced meal plans that meet the nutritional standards set forth by the USDA and Head Start. Ensure meals are culturally appropriate and cater to any dietary restrictions.
• Supervise food preparation and service, ensuring that food safety and sanitation guidelines are followed.
• Assist in the development of individual nutrition plans for children with special dietary needs based on medical conditions or food allergies.
• Conduct nutrition assessments and analyze growth charts to monitor the nutritional health and development of children.
• Complete required documentation for health screenings, nutrition assessments, and meal service records in a timely manner.
• Regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition programs, adjusting strategies as necessary based on feedback and outcomes. Maintain accurate records of nutritional assessments and program participation.
• Work closely with the Nutrition Coordinator and other staff members to develop and implement nutrition-related policies and initiatives. Participate in team meetings and contribute to program planning.
• Build relationships with community organizations and resources to enhance nutrition services and support for families. Share information about available resources and encourage participation in local nutrition programs.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal nutrition regulations and guidelines. Assist in preparing for audits and maintaining documentation as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience working with children, particularly in early childhood education or community health settings.
• Knowledge of USDA nutrition guidelines, CACFP regulations, and Head Start requirements.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and educate diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities

Skills and Competencies:

• Passion for promoting healthy eating and nutrition among children and families.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and nutrition assessment software.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

Perks at Upbring

• Competitive PTO & paid holidays 
• Health, dental, vision insurance & more! 
• 403(b) Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted Gym Memberships 

Physical Demands & Work Conditions

• Comfortable working in a kitchen environment and participating in food preparation activities.
• Position works in a child facility and has constant exposure to children
• Position requires frequent standing, walking and time in units/cottages which are areas where children reside
• Lift up to 25 lbs.

The physical requirements for this position with or without reasonable accommodation are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this position successfully. While performing this position the employee with or without reasonable accommodation should have the ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, speak, and hear with aid, see, read, reach with arms and hands, lift and/or move up to specified weight, and use equipment that is essential to performing the job, such as a computer, copier, fax machine, telephone, and automobile, if applicable. Specific vision requirements of this position may include color vision, seeing things close up, and the ability to adjust focus.

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Belonging  

We are a diverse and inclusive Organization that recognizes our strength is in the efforts of our selfless warriors. Honoring and recognizing the value and dignity of all individuals is the cornerstone of our agency. The more diverse the individuals, thought processes and lived experiences, the greater the opportunity is to combine unique perspectives to make a greater impact. Our trust, respect, and appreciation for one another is demonstrated through our communication, celebration of progress and relentless effort to be at our best TO FULLFILL OUR MISSION OF BREAKING THE CYCLE OF CHILD ABUSE.

Upbring is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.