Purpose/Objectives: Study objectives were to identify the functional areas, competencies, knowledge, and skills needed by effective school nutrition (SN) assistants in the current SN environment, and determine at what point the SN assistant should be able to know/perform the knowledge/skill statement, at time of hire or after training. Methods: In Phase I, an expert panel of state agency staff, SN directors, and SN managers identified functional areas for job duties performed by SN assistants using a modified Delphi technique. The expert panel also agreed upon the knowledge and skill statements needed in each functional area. Researchers categorized the knowledge and skill statements for each functional area and drafted competency statements. The Phase II review panel was mailed a survey to verify whether the knowledge and skill statements are important to job responsibilities of SN assistants, determine at what point SN assistants should be able to know or perform the knowledge or skill statement, and confirm whether the competency statements are consistent with the supporting knowledge and skill statements. Results: Six functional areas were identified that encompass the job duties of the SN assistant: food production; sanitation, safety, and security; customer service; program regulations and accountability; equipment use and care; and professional excellence. In addition, 12 competencies, 45 knowledge statements, and 105 skill statements were confirmed by the Phase II review panel. Thirty-seven statements were identified as being necessary when SN assistants are hired. Applications to Child Nutrition Professionals: SN administrators can use the knowledge and skill statements in preparing job descriptions for SN assistants. Although job requirements for SN assistants may differ, these findings provide needed information for defining the role of an effective SN assistant. (Contains 2 tables.)