Meals On Wheels Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY

The Assistant supports the MOW Coordinator in the overall management of the program, ensuring all processes

for the safe preparation, packaging, and delivery of meals are consistently followed. This position completes daily

administrative tasks to ensure accurate tracking and documentation of meal services provided.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Program Support

Assist in planning, organizing, and supporting the daily operations of the Meals on Wheels (MOW) Program to

ensure members receive high-quality, nutritious meals that meet their individual needs.

• Pick up hot and cold food carts from the skilled nursing facility (SNF) kitchen, ensuring all required items

are included.

• Record refrigerator/freezer temperatures and document them daily.
• Sanitize all work areas—including appliances and route delivery bags—before use, after each task, and at

the end of each day.

• Communicate special meals or diet requests to SNF kitchen staff using the daily ticket.
• Prepare containers and package food according to dietary needs and special requests.
• Organize and pack meals based on route assignments.
• Verify accurate meal counts for each recipient on daily routes.
• Maintain proper food temperatures using steamers while serving.
• Package remaining complete meals for weekend inventory as available.
• Load PLA tenant meals for distribution by kitchen volunteers.

Administrative, Staffing, and Operational Support

Assist with staffing, scheduling, and budgeting to ensure efficient program operations.

• Calculate and provide daily meal count tickets to SNF kitchen staff.
• Accurately record daily meal service for each recipient according to funding status.
• Monitor phone messages and respond or forward to the Coordinator for intake needs.
• Maintain the daily message logbook.
• Update records and meal totals to reflect last-minute cancellations or additions.
• Review and adjust route books daily, applying NO SERVICE or HOLD stickers as needed.
• Prepare the administrative desk with required notices, order forms, and other materials.
• Engage and guide kitchen volunteers in meal preparation and packing.
• Provide training to kitchen volunteers as needed (e.g., hand hygiene, hat/hairnet use).
• Confirm accurate counts of lunch bags and hot containers for each route.
• Monitor and complete product order forms; forward to Coordinator for processing.
• Greet volunteer drivers, provide route updates, and offer hospitality items.
• Ensure volunteers use the daily log sheet.
• Respond to calls from drivers regarding route issues or undeliverable meals.
• Manage barcodes, complete daily scanning of meal recipients, and monitor usage; communicate updates

to the State Manager.

Facility Compliance

• Record refrigerator/freezer temperatures and document them daily.
• Promote a positive, inclusive workplace focused on customer service and staff support.
• Maintain department records including food/equipment logs, temperature logs, and meal counts.
• Participate in inspections and audits to ensure safety and sanitation standards are met.
• Maintain current knowledge of policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements related to Meals on

Wheels and Culinary Services.

• Attend required education sessions related to safety, infection control, and disease processes.
• Uphold food production and sanitation standards as defined by Monarch Healthcare Management

policies and procedures.

• Understand and support the Resident’s Bill of Rights.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Commitment to working with volunteers and members, with an understanding of their needs.
• Strong communication skills and dedication to enhancing coordination services for older adults.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to follow directions, communicate effectively, collaborate with coworkers, and complete assigned

tasks.

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Must meet Minnesota Department of Human Services background check requirements.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate a personal vehicle for meal delivery as needed.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and pivot with sudden demands of your attention.
• Resilience: ability to welcome constructive feedback, course correct and not take it personally.
• Personability; ability to get along with all personality types and inspire trust with whom you interact.
• Ability to actively listen, with the goal of understanding.
• Ability to clearly speak and proficiently read and write in English.
• Comfort in operating in ambiguous situations and with diverse populations.
• Ability to thrive in an environment that is fast paced.