Assistant Cook

ECS4Kids (formerly Episcopal Children’s Services) is a 2026 Top Workplace that honors young children’s immense potential by helping them enter school ready to learn. We cultivate lifelong learners by immersing children in enriching guided experiences and discovery-oriented approaches. Through our Head Start program, our dedicated professionals work with families and caregivers throughout Georgia to promote children’s well-being and strengthen key areas including motor development, cognitive development, social and emotional development, language and communication skills, and problem-solving skills. Partner with us to help empower communities to rise above generational poverty with comprehensive early childhood education and holistic family support.

About the role

The Assistant Cook supports the preparation, transportation, and service of nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA/CACFP guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards. This role assists in maintaining kitchen and food service areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition, and is responsible for transporting food between assigned sites. The Assistant Cook contributes to the overall goals of the program by promoting healthy eating habits and supporting a collaborative center environment.

Responsibilities

• Meal Preparation & Service
  • Assist in preparing and serving breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to approved menus and USDA/CACFP requirements.
  • Support accommodations for special dietary needs and allergies as directed.
  • Ensure timely delivery of meals to classrooms and maintain appropriate portion sizes.
• Kitchen Operations & Sanitation
  • Assist in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.
  • Follow food safety procedures including proper food handling, storage, and temperature control.
  • Support completion of daily temperature logs and sanitation checklists.
  • Wash dishes and clean kitchen surfaces daily in accordance with health department standards.
• Inventory & Ordering
  • Assist in monitoring food and supply inventory.
  • Help receive and inspect food deliveries for quality and accuracy.
  • Maintain stock of milk and paper products.
• Documentation & Compliance
  • Support accurate recordkeeping of meals served, food temperatures, and inventory.
  • Assist in submitting required documentation to the Nutrition Specialist or Center Manager.
  • Help review inspection reports and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Food Transportation
  • Safely transport prepared food between assigned sites while maintaining food safety standards.
  • Ensure food is delivered on time and in appropriate containers to preserve temperature and quality.
• Team Collaboration
  • Communicate regularly with center staff to coordinate meal service and classroom needs.
  • Participate in staff meetings and required training sessions.
  • Support classroom as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 6 months of related food service experience preferred.
• Knowledge of USDA/CACFP meal patterns and food safety standards preferred.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport food between sites required.

Qualifications

• Complete TB screening & physical before having direct contact with children. Renew every 2 years.
• Current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.
• At least 10 hours of state-approved training completed within the first 90 days of employment, if applicable.
• 25 hours of annual training (January–December) in topics related to nutrition and food safety, health and sanitation, child development, USDA/CACFP compliance.
• Complete online Food Handlers course, such as Serving Safe Food in Childcare, within 90 days of employment.

Skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
• Knowledge of proper cleaning techniques and food safety practices.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment.

Environmental Conditions

• Indoor classroom and kitchen settings.
• Tolerance for noise and high activity levels.
• Exposure to various cleaning chemicals.

Essential Physical Skills

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, and sitting on the floor.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the day.
• Capacity to respond quickly and physically in emergency situations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) plan with 5% employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Long-term & short-term disability insurance.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Paid holidays.
• Generous paid time off.
• Career development.
• Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

$14.50 per hour