The Dietary Aide is responsible for assisting in the preparation and serving of meals and snacks to participants of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Under the supervision of the PACE Dietitian this position will perform duties related to PACE Day Center meal preparation, service, and post-meal clean up. This role ensures that dietary needs and preferences of participants are met in accordance with their care plans and that all food service operations comply with established standards and regulations.

Preparation of the Day Center/PACE center dining room for meals by setting tables, making certain condiments are available and preparing beverages. Assure meals are served at proper temperature, are timely, adhere to current diet order, and are appetizing in appearance.

• Preparation of the Day Center/PACE center dining room for meals by setting tables, making certain condiments are available and 
• Assist in cleaning of the dining and kitchen area; including utensils, dishes, floors, tables, and food storage following meals.
• preparing beverages.
• Serve meals that are appetizing in appearance.
• Set up meals and as instructed.
• Assist in checking diet trays with diet orders before distribution.
• Assist in serving meals a timely basis.
• Serve food in accordance with established portion control procedures.
• Remove food trays from dining room and take to dishwashing area.
• Perform dishwashing tasks. Assure that utensils are readily available for next meal.
• Return clean utensils to proper storage areas.
• Assist in daily or scheduled cleaning duties, in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Clean work tables, meat blocks, refrigerators/freezers, etc.
• Sweep and mop floors as directed.
• Assist cook in preparing meals.
• Dispose of trash and boxes in proper containers.
• Prepare and deliver snacks, etc., as instructed.
• Follow safety regulations and precautions.
• Follow established Infection Control and Universal Precautions policies and procedures when performing daily tasks.
• Keep floors clean and dry and manage clean-up of spills as soon as possible
• Report hazardous conditions/equipment to supervisor as soon as possible.
• Assist in maintaining food storage areas in a clean and organized manner.
• Dispose of food and waste in accordance with established policies.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment when using cleaning products.
• Know the location and purpose of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS.)
• Assist in inventorying, labeling, rotating and storing in-coming food, supplies, etc., as necessary.
• Ability to maintain excellent and respectful working relationship with co-workers and customers from diverse backgrounds.
• Exhibits professionalism by attendance, punctuality, accountability, appearance, demeanor, and the willingness to go beyond normal job expectations.
• Participates on programmatic teams as required
• Protects privacy and maintains confidentiality of employee, participant and sensitive agency information.
• Supports agency’s mission and values.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Primarily work indoors.
• Usually have their own office or a shared office space
• Are exposed daily to participants who have diseases or infections.
• Wear protective clothing such as a gown, masks, and gloves, as needed.
• Work very close to others, especially when examining participants.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, and/or stand.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Education & Training

• A high school diploma or equivalent desired

Skills & Abilities

• Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language.
• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with staff, participants, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public.
• Must be knowledgeable of dietary procedures.
• Must have patience, tact, a cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, as well as the willingness to handle difficult situations and participant dynamics.