OUR MISSION
At Little Praisers Preschool & Child Care, every meal is an opportunity to show God’s love in action - through care, service, and community. As Kitchen Coordinator and Cook, you’ll help nourish children’s bodies and souls, supporting their growth in a place where faith and learning come together.
OVERVIEW
Praise Lutheran Church is home to Little Praisers Preschool & Child Care - a ministry dedicated to nurturing children ages 6 weeks to 12 years in a Christ-centered environment. Our mission is to support families by providing exceptional early education and care rooted in Christian values.
The Food Services Department plays a vital role in this mission by preparing balanced, nutritious meals and snacks that align with CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) standards and reflect our commitment to excellence, stewardship, and care for God’s children. We are not enrolled in the CACF Program but adhere to providing balanced meals.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Kitchen Coordinator & Cook oversees all aspects of Little Praisers’ kitchen operations, ensuring the preparation and service of healthy, child-friendly meals in compliance with Indiana state food safety regulations. This position manages inventory and ordering and collaborates with the Director to plan menus that reflect both nutritional quality and ministry values.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
KITCHEN & MEAL MANAGEMENT
- Plan and prepare daily breakfast, lunch, and snacks
- Maintain compliance with all food safety and sanitation regulations.
- Manage food inventory to ensure freshness, proper storage, and minimal waste.
- Order food and supplies in a timely manner with Director approval.
- Collaborate with the Director on seasonal and special event menus (Thanksgiving, etc.).
OPERATIONAL & TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee daily kitchen cleaning, sanitization, and equipment care.
- Report maintenance needs or supply shortages to the Director promptly.
- Collaborate and support staff in daily kitchen routines and best practices.
- Attend staff meetings and Little Praisers’ events involving food service.
- Communicate absences to the Director at least two (2) weeks before the scheduled shift.
- Foster positive, cooperative relationships with staff and families.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Current or obtainable ServSafe (Food Handler’s) certification approved by the State of Indiana.
- Successful completion of a background check, drug screening, and TB test.
- Prior experience in food service management or childcare meal preparation.
HOURS
COMPENSATION & BENEFITSompensation & Benefits:
- Option for bundled / unbundled health, dental, vision insurance
- Option to enroll in 403b
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Pay: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Food Production Experience: 1 year (Preferred)
- Meal Preparation: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
