Job Summary
Join our vibrant child care community as a Child Care Center Cook and Kitchen Manager! In this dynamic role, you will be the heart of our kitchen, ensuring that nutritious, delicious meals are prepared safely and efficiently for our young learners. Your culinary expertise and leadership will foster a warm, healthy environment where children thrive through well-balanced meals. This position offers an exciting opportunity to combine culinary artistry with meaningful work supporting early childhood development. You will oversee daily food operations, manage meal planning, and uphold the highest standards of food safety and sanitation. Your energetic approach will inspire a positive dining experience for children and staff alike!
Required Qualifications
- Experience preparing meals for groups (school, daycare, assisted living, restaurant, catering, etc.)
- Current Food Handler's card (or ability to obtain before starting)
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
- Ability to plan and prepare nutritious meals for children
- Ability to accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions
- Ability to pass a background check required for child care employees
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Ability to lift 30-50 pounds and stand for extended periods
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience cooking in a child care center, school, or similar setting
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Experience ordering food and managing kitchen inventory
- Familiarity with USDA Child and Adult Food Program (CACFP) guidelines
- Experience preparing meals for 50- 100+ children
Responsibilities
- Prepare breakfast, lunch and snacks according to center menus
- Maintain compliance with state licensing and health department regulations
- Follow allergy protocols and special dietary requirements
- Keep kitchen clean, organized, and sanitary
- Manage food inventory and place supply orders
- Maintain meal production records and temperature logs
Join us to make a meaningful impact through nourishing meals that support early childhood growth! We value energetic professionals who bring culinary passion combined with a commitment to safety and quality. This is more than just a kitchen role—it's an opportunity to contribute to a caring community dedicated to fostering healthy futures.
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- How many years of commercial cooking experience do you have?
- Have you worked in a school, daycare, senior living facility, or similar environment?
- Do you currently hold a Food Handler's Card?
- Have you prepared meals for individuals with food allergies or dietary restrictions?
- Are you able to pass a child care background check?
- How many people have you regularly cooked for in a single meal service?
Work Location: In person
