Position Summary
The Child Care Center Cook plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of children by preparing nutritious, appealing meals and snacks in accordance with the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and safe kitchen while preparing meals for up to 50 children and staff. The ideal candidate enjoys working in a child-centered environment, values teamwork, and is eager to learn all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory management and food ordering.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesMeal Preparation
- Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks that meet USDA CACFP meal pattern requirements.
- Follow planned menus while accommodating approved food allergies, dietary restrictions, and substitutions.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule.
- Maintain appropriate portion sizes for each age group.
- Assist in planning menus that are nutritious, child-friendly, and cost-effective.
Food Safety & Sanitation
- Follow all federal, state, local, and licensing regulations regarding food preparation and storage.
- Adhere to food safety and sanitation procedures, including proper handwashing, cross-contamination prevention, temperature monitoring, cleaning, and sanitizing.
- Maintain required food temperature logs, refrigerator and freezer logs, and cleaning records.
- Keep the kitchen, food storage areas, and equipment clean, organized, and inspection-ready at all times.
- Properly store and rotate food using the First In, First Out (FIFO) method.
Inventory & Ordering
- Maintain organized food storage and monitor inventory levels.
- Notify administration of items needing replenishment.
- Demonstrate a willingness to learn ordering procedures, inventory management, and budget-conscious purchasing.
- Receive, inspect, and properly store food deliveries.
Compliance
- Maintain accurate CACFP production records and required meal documentation.
- Follow all licensing requirements and center policies.
- Participate in required food safety, CACFP, and professional development training.
- Assist with health department and licensing inspections as needed.
Teamwork
- Communicate effectively with administration and classroom staff regarding menu changes, allergies, and meal schedules.
- Foster a positive, respectful, and professional work environment.
- Assist with other kitchen-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous experience in food service, school nutrition, restaurant, healthcare, or child care is preferred but not required.
- Willingness to learn CACFP regulations and child nutrition standards.
- Ability to obtain or maintain required Food Handler or ServSafe certification (if required by state or local regulations).
- Ability to pass all required background checks for employment in a licensed child care facility.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks.
- Basic math skills for recipes, portioning, and inventory.
- Attention to detail and commitment to food safety.
- Dependable, punctual, and flexible.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Ability to communicate respectfully with children, families, and coworkers.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
- Bend, reach, stoop, and climb as needed.
- Work safely around hot surfaces, sharp utensils, and commercial kitchen equipment.
- Ability to tolerate a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Work Environment
This position works in a licensed child care center kitchen serving infants through preschool-aged children. The Cook is expected to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, professionalism, and confidentiality while supporting the mission of providing healthy meals that promote children's growth and development.
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Cooking: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- drivers license? (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
