Child Care Center Coook

Child Care Center Cook

Position Title: Kitchen Cook
Reports To: Child Care Center Director

Position Summary:
The Kitchen Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious and appealing meals and snacks for children in the child care center. This role ensures compliance with all health, safety, and dietary guidelines, including food allergies and specific dietary restrictions. The Kitchen Cook will also maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen while adhering to state and federal regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Meal Preparation and Cooking:
• Plan and prepare balanced meals and snacks in accordance with approved menus, nutritional guidelines, and dietary restrictions.
• Ensure meals are appealing, age-appropriate, and meet USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards if applicable.
• Food Safety and Sanitation:
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen and food storage areas.
• Follow all food safety and hygiene practices, including proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques.
• Adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, including health department codes.
• Menu Planning:
• Assist in developing and updating menus in collaboration with the Child Care Center Director, taking into account children's allergies and dietary needs.
• Ensure menu variety and alignment with cultural and seasonal preferences.
• Inventory and Supplies:
• Monitor and maintain kitchen inventory, ensuring adequate supplies of food, utensils, and cleaning materials.
• Order food and supplies as needed, staying within budget guidelines.
• Check the quality and freshness of food items upon delivery.
• Record-Keeping:
• Maintain accurate records of meals served, including documentation required for CACFP (if applicable).
• Record and update allergy and dietary restriction information.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Communicate effectively with staff regarding dietary needs, meal schedules, and any updates to food policies.
• Participate in team meetings and training sessions as required.
• Safety and Emergency Preparedness:
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and maintain proper functionality.
• Follow protocols for emergency situations, including fire and equipment malfunctions.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in food preparation, cooking, or a similar role, preferably in a child care or institutional setting.
• Knowledge of nutrition and meal planning for children.
• Familiarity with CACFP guidelines (preferred but not required).
• Food Handler’s certification or ability to obtain one before starting.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail, particularly regarding food allergies and dietary restrictions.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Flexibility to adapt menus to meet individual and group needs.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for children.

Work Environment:

• Primarily works in a kitchen setting with exposure to heat, cooking equipment, and cleaning supplies.
• May occasionally assist in classrooms during meal service.

Schedule and Compensation:

• Full-time as determined by the Child Care Center’s needs.
• Competitive hourly wage; benefits may include health insurance, PTO, and professional development opportunities.

This position is integral to the child care center’s success in promoting healthy eating habits and a positive learning environment. If you are passionate about nutrition and enjoy working in a child-focused environment, we encourage you to apply!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $15.50 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $17