Position Summary
The Prep Cook/Dishwasher supports the Child Care Center Cook by assisting with food preparation, cleaning, dishwashing, and maintaining a safe, sanitary, and organized kitchen. This position plays an important role in ensuring meals are prepared efficiently and that the kitchen operates smoothly while following USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards, food safety regulations, and licensing requirements. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, enjoys working as part of a team, and is willing to learn all aspects of kitchen operations.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesFood Preparation
- Assist the Cook with preparing breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks for up to 50 children and staff.
- Wash, peel, cut, measure, and portion food according to recipes and meal plans.
- Prepare ingredients for daily meal service while following CACFP meal pattern requirements.
- Assist with serving meals and snacks as needed.
- Help package and label food for classroom distribution when applicable.
Dishwashing & Kitchen Cleaning
- Wash, rinse, sanitize, and properly store dishes, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment.
- Maintain clean and sanitized workstations throughout the day.
- Sweep, mop, sanitize floors, and clean kitchen surfaces daily.
- Empty trash and recycling and maintain clean waste disposal areas.
- Clean refrigerators, freezers, shelves, and storage areas according to cleaning schedules.
- Assist with deep cleaning projects as assigned.
Food Safety & Organization
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and licensing regulations.
- Practice proper handwashing, cross-contamination prevention, and safe food handling procedures.
- Assist with monitoring food temperatures and maintaining cleanliness logs as directed.
- Organize food storage areas using the First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory rotation method.
- Properly store food deliveries and supplies.
Inventory Support
- Help unpack and organize food deliveries.
- Notify the Cook or administration when supplies are running low.
- Assist with maintaining an organized kitchen and storage area.
- Demonstrate a willingness to learn inventory procedures and kitchen operations.
Teamwork
- Work cooperatively with the Cook, classroom staff, and administration.
- Maintain a positive, professional attitude while supporting daily kitchen operations.
- Assist with additional kitchen-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous experience in food service or commercial kitchens is helpful but not required.
- Willingness to learn CACFP regulations, food safety practices, and child care licensing requirements.
- 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 skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Dependable and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
- Bend, reach, squat, and twist throughout the workday.
- Safely operate dishwashing equipment and use cleaning chemicals according to manufacturer instructions.
- Ability to work in warm, wet, and fast-paced kitchen conditions.
Work Environment
The Prep Cook/Dishwasher works in a licensed child care center kitchen supporting meal preparation for infants through preschool-aged children. This position is essential in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen while ensuring compliance with CACFP standards, food safety regulations, and child care licensing requirements. The Prep Cook/Dishwasher contributes to creating a healthy environment where nutritious meals can be safely prepared and served to children each day.
Pay: $16.15 - $17.00 per hour
Experience:
- Food preparation: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Great Falls, MT 59405 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
