Child Care Center Cook

Job Summary

Plan and prepare balanced and nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, and portion sizes.

Become familiar with and follow all CACFP guidelines and regulations. Handle record keeping and reporting for the food program financial reimbursements.

Ensure that all meals and snacks meet the nutritional needs of children based on their age group and any specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices to maintain a safe and hygienic kitchen environment.

Collaborate with the Director and other staff members to develop menus that incorporate a variety of age-appropriate foods and cater to the cultural and dietary preferences of the children and their families.

Maintain accurate records of meals served, food temperatures, and food production quantities for compliance and reporting purposes.

Participate in staff meetings and training sessions related to nutrition, food safety, and child health.

Stay updated on current nutritional guidelines and best practices related to child nutrition and culinary techniques.

Clean and maintain the kitchen area, including equipment, utensils, and storage spaces.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare balanced and nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, and portion sizes.
• Become familiar with and follow all CACFP guidelines and regulations. Handle record keeping and reporting for the food program financial reimbursements.
• Ensure that all meals and snacks meet the nutritional needs of children based on their age group and any specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices to maintain a safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
• Collaborate with the Director and other staff members to develop menus that incorporate a variety of age-appropriate foods and cater to the cultural and dietary preferences of the children and their families.
• Maintain accurate records of meals served, food temperatures, and food production quantities for compliance and reporting purposes.
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions related to nutrition, food safety, and child health.
• Stay updated on current nutritional guidelines and best practices related to child nutrition and culinary techniques.
• Clean and maintain the kitchen area, including equipment, utensils, and storage spaces.

Requirements

• Prior experience as a Cook or in a similar culinary role, preferably in a childcare or school setting.
• Knowledge of nutrition and dietary guidelines for young children, including the ability to plan and prepare well-balanced meals.
• Familiarity with food safety and sanitation regulations and practices.
• Ability to adapt recipes and menus to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Excellent culinary skills, including meal planning, food preparation, and presentation.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule.
• Physical stamina and the ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry heavy objects, and work in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Flexibility to accommodate occasional changes in menus or schedules.
• A current Food Handler's Certificate or willingness to obtain one.

Qualifications

• A genuine passion for cooking and promoting healthy eating habits among children.

Skills

• Knowledge of nutrition and dietary guidelines for young children.
• Food safety and sanitation practices.
• Adaptability to dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Culinary skills, including meal planning, food preparation, and presentation.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Physical stamina and flexibility.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Child Care Discount: Enjoy a significant discount on childcare services for your own children.
• Paid Training Hours: Enhance your skills and knowledge in early childhood education through paid training hours.
• Meals Provided: Enjoy nutritious meals during working hours.
• PTO, Paid Holidays, No Weekends: Enjoy paid time off, holidays, and weekends off.
• Advancement Opportunities: Promote from within and grow your career in early childhood education.

Pay

Competitive salary

Schedule

Free food & snacks