What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nutrition Specialist position at PIC - Head Start/Early Head Start of Fayette County?
The Nutrition Specialist ensures optimal nutritional services for children and families in compliance with federal and state guidelines, including USDA and CACFP requirements. This role oversees meal quality, documentation, monitoring, and nutrition education across early childhood program sites. Working closely with Child Development and Education (CDE) and Child Health & Safety teams, the Nutrition Specialist supports healthy growth and development by promoting sound nutrition practices for children, pregnant women, and families. The ideal candidate is knowledgeable, detail-oriented, and passionate about improving child and family wellness through comprehensive nutrition services.
What You’ll Do:
- Monitor meal quality and food service operations to ensure compliance with USDA, CACFP, and Head Start regulations.
- Conduct and document CACFP monitoring visits at center-based sites.
- Plan monthly menus and special diets in collaboration with a Registered Dietician.
- Train staff and families on nutrition, sanitation, and food service requirements.
- Support Child Health & Safety staff in communicating nutrition information, growth patterns, and healthy eating practices.
- Assist with nutrition assessments for enrolled infants, children, and pregnant women, including follow-up and documentation.
- Develop individualized nutrition goals and health/nutrition care plans as needed.
- Enter and track growth and health data in ChildPlus and follow up with families when concerns arise.
- Maintain inventory of food service equipment and supplies; recommend purchases as needed.
- Plan and assist with monthly food experiences and parent nutrition trainings.
- Participate in advisory meetings and engage families in nutrition service areas.
What You Bring:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Foods & Nutrition, Dietetics, or equivalent coursework in food and nutrition.
- Experience: At least one year in a health-related field, preferably working with preschool-aged children and providing community-based nutrition services.
- Working knowledge of USDA and CACFP requirements and monitoring systems.
- Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations.
- Strong planning skills to create nutritious, cost-effective menus.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and use sound independent judgment.
- Proficiency in Windows, Microsoft Word, and Excel.
- Knowledge of community resources related to family nutrition and health.
What We Offer:
- Compensation based on educational qualifications: $17.94 – Certificate, $19.57 – Associate’s, $22.84 – Bachelor’s
- Opportunity to positively impact child growth, health, and development.
- Meaningful work supporting families through comprehensive nutrition services.
- Collaborative environment within early childhood and health teams.
- Professional development opportunities within a mission-driven organization.
About Us:
For over 40 years, the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. has empowered families and communities through education, workforce development, and early childhood programs. Join our Early Childhood Education team to help shape the next generation through compassion, learning, and partnership.
For more details and to apply visit: https://privateindustrycouncil.com/job-openings/
Pay: $17.94 - $22.84 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- health-related or community nutrition services: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $23