CACFP Childcare Centers and Afterschool/Summer Program Specialist I

Strategic HR Client Job Openings•Cleveland, OH

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Children’s Hunger Alliance (CHA) is seeking a CACFP Childcare Centers and Afterschool/Summer Program Specialist I to support licensed childcare centers, afterschool programs, and summer programs participating in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). The specialist serves as a trusted partner and primary point of contact for assigned centers and sites, recruiting, training, monitoring, and supporting them as they provide nutritious meals for children. The role helps centers and sites understand program requirements, navigate challenges, and maintain compliance through communication, technical assistance, training, monitoring, and customer service. Responsibilities also include coordinating applications and food orders, maintaining required records, conducting outreach, and staying current on applicable USDA, Ohio Department of Education (ODE), and CHA regulations. The position is hybrid and involves frequent regional travel.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Nutrition, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, or Social Work, or two years of relevant experience.
Valid State of Ohio driver’s license and reliable vehicle for frequent regional travel.
Knowledge of USDA CACFP and SFSP regulations, child nutrition, early childhood education, and program implementation and evaluation; ability to follow federal, state, and agency procedures.
Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills, including comfort speaking to large groups.
Strong organization, time management, and multitasking skills.
Customer service skills, including problem-solving, flexibility, and active listening.
Ability to work effectively with diverse individuals and groups.
Proficiency with email, the internet, and Microsoft Office, especially Excel; ability to use technology to train adults.
Positive, professional, and resilient mindset.

Nice To Haves

Experience with structured childcare programs and training.

Responsibilities

Provide staff training on program regulations, agency procedures, and software use.
Coordinate the annual site application process and food order launch for afterschool and summer partners.
Conduct monitoring reviews of childcare centers, afterschool programs, and summer programs.
Provide technical assistance and customer service to help centers and sites meet program requirements.
Support out-of-compliance sites through technical assistance, re-training, corrective action, and closure of review.
Monitor and process center disallowances on monthly claims.
Review and adjust afterschool and summer food orders based on daily student participation.
Conduct and report outreach activities and build community relationships to increase program awareness.
Conduct and report resource distribution and special site visits.
Maintain an organized electronic file with all required documents for each center and site.
Stay current on USDA, ODE, and CHA CACFP and SFSP regulations.
Distribute educational materials, provide ongoing check-ins and implementation support, and gather feedback on resource use, progress, and barriers.
Participate in regional, state, and team meetings and required staff training.
Follow Ohio law related to reporting suspected child abuse or neglect.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Pre-tax savings options including FSA and HSA, with employer contributions.
Employer-provided life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
401(k) with Safe Harbor contribution and employer match.
Generous PTO starting at 19 days, plus 11 paid holidays.
Paid parental leave and additional leave options, including bereavement and jury duty.
Tuition and continuing education reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program and wellness initiatives.
Mileage reimbursement.
Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
Optional supplemental life, disability, legal, and identity protection plans.
Hybrid work schedule.