Cook, Part Time

About the role

Tuscarora Intermediate Unit invites applicants for a part-time Cook position located at Juniata County Head Start in Mifflintown, PA. The role supports the food service program for Head Start/Early Head Start/Pre-K, ensuring meals and snacks are prepared, served, and documented in accordance with CACFP standards and health and safety codes.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and serves food, assists in food-related activities as directed and follows approved menus.
• Oversees inventory maintenance for supplies, food, and equipment; processes and stores delivered food items.
• Oversees full kitchen operations and may supervise a Program Aide.
• Prepares and serves all meals as planned, paying attention to presentation and freshness; follows standardized recipes and appropriate quantities per CACFP requirements.
• Monitors children's acceptance of menu items and recommends menu changes.
• Acts as a resource and team member with program staff to plan food-related experiences facilitating family-style meal service; meets individual needs for infants and toddlers.
• Ensures dishes are returned to the kitchen and supports nutrition training and activities for children and families.
• Supports staff and parents in preparing meals and snacks for meetings, planning sessions, and special events as requested and approved by the Nutrition Manager or Program Director.
• Responsible for proper receiving, inventory, storage of food, and clean-up of kitchen and equipment.
• Notifies supervisor of any safety or health issues or concerns.
• Positively represents Head Start/Early Head Start/Pre-K in the community.
• Maintains kitchen and storage rooms in a clean and sanitary manner; reports equipment not in good working order.
• Ensures foods are prepared safely and sanitarily; complies with local, state, and federal hygiene and sanitation standards.
• Understands regulations for prevention of occupational disease and injury, including universal precautions and contamination prevention.
• Responsible for periodic purchasing and regular maintenance of food to ensure quality, cost control, and adequate inventory.
• Receives and accounts for food deliveries; documents purchases, preparation, and service in the menu book per USDA/CACFP requirements.
• Completes weekly inventory of all food (perishable and non-perishable); ensures inventory security.
• Completes regular equipment and supply inventory.
• Submits food invoices in an organized, timely manner; maintains and submits required records.
• Participates in internal and external audits and performance improvement activities.
• Plans and directs work of assigned Program Aide and volunteers; provides information and training on kitchen job standards.
• Successfully completes and stays up-to-date on Basic First Aid and CPR certification.
• Attends workshops, meetings, staff and parent meetings as deemed necessary.
• Participates in ongoing training in food preparation, food safety, and nutrition; understands Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Requirements

• Act 24 Arrest and Conviction Report
• Act 34 Pennsylvania Criminal History Clearance
• Act 151 Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearance
• Act 114 Federal Criminal History Clearance
• Links to clearance forms: https://www.tiu11.org/human-resources/

Benefits

• Retention bonus of $2,000 upon completion of two years of employment

Pay

$12–$13 per hour based on experience

Schedule

25–29 hours per week