Cook

About the role

The Cook is responsible for the preparation and service of meals and the implementation of the food service program in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and USDA guidelines. This position reports directly to the Center Manager.

Responsibilities

• Prepare purchase orders according to established procedures.
• Receive and store food, keeping inventory of foods, utensils, and equipment.
• Maintain the required CACFP Daily Menu and Food Service Records.
• Comply with all sanitation and safety codes.
• Assist with serving meals according to time schedules and in an attractive manner.
• Make menu substitutions when needed following established procedures.
• Wear mandated attire (white uniform, enclosed, skid-free shoes), hair net, apron, manicured, short nails (free of colored nail polish), and gloves when handling food products.
• Compare food delivery invoices to food and supplies delivered.
• Store food and supplies properly.
• Wash dishes, pots, pans, and clean kitchen equipment.
• Store clean dishes, pots, pans, etc., according to guidelines.
• Discard unused foods that were served and cover food before serving to units.
• Sweep floors and maintain sanitation and cleanliness in the food service area.

Skills

• Food preparation: Knowledge of food preparation and ability to contribute to industrial- or institutional-scale food handling and prep.
• Food safety: Well-versed in best practices for safe handling and transportation of food to prevent spoilage and contamination.
• Attention to cleanliness: Thorough understanding of cleaning and sanitation to prevent contamination and illness.
• Physical fitness: Ability to perform repetitive or strenuous tasks during food preparation, including standing for long periods and lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with other team members.

Requirements

• High school diploma and/or GED equivalent.
• 1+ years of experience in preparing meals.
• Must have or be able to obtain a ServSafe Certification within 30 days of employment.
• Must be able to pass all required background checks (including fingerprinting) and drug screens.
• Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.

Benefits

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence.

Location: YMCA South DeKalb Early Learning Center