Lead Cook Description
Position Title: Lead Cook
Classification: Non-Exempt
Pay Range: $22-$26/hr. depending on experience
Reports to: Educational Services Manager
Schedule:, Full-Time; Flexible
- Typical hours: 7:30am – 2:30pm, Monday-Friday
- Kitchen environment in an early childhood education setting.
Position Summary
The Lead cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with state licensing, CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines, and the facility’s policies. This role includes developing menus, purchasing food and kitchen supplies, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment. The chef supports the center’s mission to promote children’s health and well-being through high-quality nutrition.
Key ResponsibilitiesMeal Planning & Preparation
- Plan balanced, age-appropriate menus that meet nutritional standards and accommodate allergies and special dietary needs.
- Prepare and cook meals and snacks according to approved menus and portion guidelines.
- Serve meals on schedule to classrooms and assist staff with meal distribution when needed.
- Adjust menus and portions based on child enrollment and attendance.
- Deliver, pick-up, and clean dishes as needed.
Purchasing & Inventory Management
- Develop and maintain purchasing schedule for food and kitchen supplies.
- Order, receive, and store food items following safe handling and storage procedures.
- Monitor inventory to prevent shortages or waste; rotate stock to ensure freshness.
- Maintain positive relationships with vendors and ensure cost-effective purchasing practices.
Recordkeeping & Compliance
- Maintain accurate daily food production records, temperature logs, and inventory reports.
- Document meal counts and menu changes as required by licensing and CACFP regulations.
- Ensure all food service documentation is up-to-date and ready for inspections or audits.
Health, Safety & Sanitation
- Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures, including proper cleaning and sanitizing of kitchen equipment and surfaces.
- Comply with local health department regulations and facility safe standards.
- Report maintenance issues or safety concerns promptly to the Director.
- Participate in required safety and food handling training.
Team Collaboration
- Communicate effectively with staff regarding menu changes, special diets, and food delivery schedules.
- Support classroom nutrition activities and contribute to a positive, team-oriented environment.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required; additional coursework in nutrition or food service preferred.
- Minimum 1-2 years of experience in institutional or childcare food service.
- Knowledge of CACFP guidelines, food safety standards, and meal portioning for children.
- Current Food Handler’s or ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain).
- Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain a clean and safe workspace.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
- Frequent bending, reaching, and moving kitchen equipment or food supplies.
- Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment
- Ability to perform repetitive motions such as stirring, and dishwashing
- Ability to maintain a safe and steady pace in a fast-paced environment
- Manual dexterity sufficient to handle food preparation and kitchen tools safely
Benefits
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer matching
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance with 50% employer contribution toward the employee’s base premium
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) options
- Paid Time Off (PTO) beginning on Day 1 of employment
- Professional Development Support for continued growth in the ECE field.
Perks of Working at TLC
- Mission-Driven Work – Make a direct impact on children’s growth, development, and future success.
- Community Engagement – Opportunities to volunteer at family events, literacy programs, and community service projects that strengthen connections with local families.
- Inclusive Team Culture – Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment that values collaboration and input.
- Career Growth – Paid training, coaching, and leadership development opportunities.
Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- This position requires accommodating food allergies and special dietary needs. What experience do you have with this?
- Are you familiar with CACFP or similar child nutrition/meal program requirements?
Experience:
- Food handling: 1 year (Required)
- Food preparation: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- ServSafe (Required)
- Food Handler Certification (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Longmont, CO 80501 (Required)
Work Location: In person
