Content Specialist - Nutrition and Health

JOB CODE: 2283

PAY GRADE: 1200

SALARY RANGE: $39,157 - $66,662

LOCATION OF WORK
Department of Human Development and Services

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the general supervision of the Program Administrator-Head Start or the Assistant Program Administrator-Head Start, performs responsible nutrition and health planning work for the Head Start Program. Work involves the formulation, promotion, implementation, and execution of a plan of services that addresses the overall health, development, and well-being of enrolled children, including medical, dental, and nutrition services. Work also involves collaborating with the Head Start Center Supervisor to ensure the kitchen staff adheres to dietary and health plans and regulations. Performs other work as requested within federal and state guidelines.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Manages the Head Start Food Program and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) budget. Collaborates with a registered dietician on an approved nutrition program and ensures the preparation of nutritionally balanced menus for preschool-aged children. Supports the Head Start Center Supervisor with managing kitchen staff in the procurement, preparation, and delivery of all food. Assists the Head Start Management Team with the Annual CACFP Enrollment Forms for free and reduced lunch. Assists in the eligibility, recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance (ERSEA) process as it relates to body mass index, dental, medical, and immunization health requirements of the Office of Head Start and CACFP. Assists the Multi-Disciplinary Team in reviewing a student's health status and alerts a registered dietician and/or licensed practical nurse of any identified health and/or nutrition risks. Observes mealtime at various Head Start sites to ensure that proper nutritional standards and services are being adhered to. Coordinates required health screenings and follow-up care for vision, hearing, height, and weight indicators of all enrolled students. Assists with the tracking of students' nutritional data and records individual progress and statistical information, such as food allergies. Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of health screenings and other medical and dental information; monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of the Head Start Food Program. Coordinates and monitors health and wellness education including medical, dental, and nutritional services for students, staff, and parents; promotes healthy habits, such as serving family-style meals and appropriately washing hands and brushing teeth. Conducts nutrition education training for staff and parents; coordinates educational and training programs on First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), blood borne pathogens, asthma, allergies, diabetes, and EpiPen usage for staff. Participates in nutrition and health programs and assists in identifying, recruiting, and enrolling families into these programs; explains services to families and staff; provides referrals to appropriate community-based agencies. Participates in community health fairs and wellness events and explains services to community members. Creates spreadsheets to document observations and other data; prepares reports of findings; maintains and files records and forms, including inspections checklists; completes a variety of forms and creates original form templates when needed. Enforces all health and sanitary regulations as applied to the preparation and delivery of food. Maintains a record-keeping system that guarantees access for U.S.D.A. inspections. Maintains cooperative relationships with personnel of related public and private agencies assisting the Head Start Program.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of nutrition and its application in an educational program. Knowledge of the dietary requirements of preschool-aged children. Knowledge of sanitary and health regulations as they apply to the preparation of food. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, the general public, and other agencies. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS