Nutrition Coordinator ECD TX

Location: Crystal City and Laredo, TX

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

The Nutrition Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating implementing and monitoring the operation of the CPLC Early Childhood Development (ECD) Nutrition Content Area. Ensures the Nutrition Content Area is in compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and Texas laws and regulations. Plans, develops, and implements training for staff, Family Child Care Providers, parents, and volunteers related to Nutrition in collaboration with Health Coordinators. Promotes school readiness by preparing children and families for school and life success as it relates to this position.

SPECIALIZATIONS

Initial employment physical, TB test or Chest X-ray, Tdap vaccination, valid Texas Driver's License and vehicle insurance are required. Must pass a criminal background check to include a Child Abuse and Neglect register check and obtain a Level One Fingerprint Clearance card. Must be First Aid and CPR certified or obtain certification within the first 6 months of employment.. A Food Handlers Manager Card will be required within 30 days after hire date.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A Bachelors degree in nutrition or other health related field and at least 1-2 years of experience working in a community health system that serves culturally diverse low-income children and families is preferred. Training or course work in Early Childhood nutrition and children with special needs is a plus. Experience working with comprehensive record keeping systems. Use of computer, projection equipment, computer software programs (e.g. Microsoft Office, Adobe) and web based systems are required. Applicant must be able to generate reports and be able to understand the context and how it fits the program appropriately. Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred.

Applicant must have working knowledge of Texass EPSDT/Medicaid guidelines health care providers and community resources related to nutrition services. Administrative ability in organization and coordination of nutrition services. Knowledge of the United States Dept. of Agriculture (USDA)/Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) requirements, administration and reporting system is required.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES AND COMPETENCIES

Ensure that the Nutrition content area plan provides healthy snacks and meals for children, infants and parents.

Monitor data management information systems at the centers for the Nutrition content areas for planning purposes and to assure the realization of program goals.

Ensure that all infant/toddler/preschool feeding practices or meal service are in compliance according to the ECD Content Area Plan and Procedures as per Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) and Texas Child Care Licensing.

Implement and monitor the Child and Adult Care Food Program at each center statewide.

Maintain food safety standards in accordance with county, state, and USDA/CACFP regulations.

Ensure all center-based program options and home-based program options menus meet the USDA/CACFP requirements by meeting each childs daily nutritional needs for each meal and snack.

Coordinate, develop and provide nutrition trainings and information on all activities affecting the nutrition of children in the program based on HSPPS and CACFP to program Cooks and Cook Assistants, Family Child Care Providers, other staff and parents.

Monitor contracts and agreements for nutrition services and trainings.

Ensure that all federal, state and county laws and regulations regarding nutrition are followed.

Support the implementation of a food and supplies purchasing system, which secures appropriate food and supplies, and is cost effective.

Ensure all kitchens have the appropriate equipment relative to the funded enrollment number of each center.

Support the review process of menus using input from parents and cooks; assures all cooking and serving procedures followed in the classrooms are in compliance with USDA/CACFP regulations and Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Assist in providing individual plans for children with identified nutritional concerns and work with parents, cooks, cook assistant, teachers and Family Child Care Providers to implement them.

Maintain confidentiality in matters pertaining to children and parents. Information will be shared only with those authorized within the CPLC ECD program.

Attend training, Pre-Service, In-Service, and conferences as appropriate to the position

Implement suggestions and recommendations made by Coordinators, Specialists and Managers.

Demonstrate awareness and sensitivity to cultural issues and community practices of low income and at risk families, including dual language speakers.

Performs any other duties as instructed by immediate supervisor necessary to carry out the administrative and support activities necessary to fulfill the goals and objectives of CPLC ECD.

Implement the Office of Head Start initiatives of I Am Moving I Am Learning and Little Voices for Healthy Choices with the Health Coordinators.

Review and update the Nutrition Content Area Plan and Procedures.

Conduct a yearly community assessment in the area of nutrition for the State of Texas and participate in the CPLC ECD Annual Self-Assessment process

Work with program staff during the Case Management process to address child and family issues or concerns within the Nutrition Content Areas

Initiates bids for food purchases (US Foodservice or other vendors)

JOB DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee frequently is required to sit and use hands along with fingers, to handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, bending at the waist crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Must have dependable transportation and be able to travel frequently (in state/out of state). Some night/weekend work is to be expected. Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.

CONTINUOUS EDUCATION

Employee will be expected to participate in continuous learning, competency building and maintenance of competency skills.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in structured environments. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

ACCOUNTABILITY

Reports to and is supervised directly by the Child Development Program Services Coordinator. Employee is also accountable for understanding and complying with CPLC policies and procedures. Staff may be assigned to Central or West Region dependent on location of residence.