Head Cook (Full Time)

This position is based at the Child & Career Development Center in Coatesville, PA, beginning September 2026.

About the role

Perform all aspects of food preparation, production, and sanitation within the cafeteria. Provide good customer service to students and staff and work as a team player.

Responsibilities

• Plans, directs, supervises, and participates in the preparation and serving of quantity and quality food as per standardized recipes.
• Follows all required policies under the NSLP/SBP, CACFP, and USDA programs.
• Maintains accurate records that conform to NSLP/SBP, CACFP, and USDA requirements.
• Records free and/or reduced students, counts money, completes deposit slips, and accurately fills out the deposit spreadsheet as needed.
• Responsible for operating a cash register/point of sale (P.O.S.) system as per NSLP/SBP guidelines.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive environment for students and staff.
• Supervises and directs all activities within the kitchen and oversees staff.
• Follows HACCP and ServSafe protocols to maintain high standards for sanitation and safety in all phases of the food service program, ensuring compliance with the Chester County Department of Health.
• Knowledgeable in the proper use and care of cafeteria equipment to ensure safe, working condition; notifies appropriate IU staff when repairs are needed.
• Familiar with the nutritional requirements of the daily menu to ensure substitutions meet nutritional standards.
• Responsible for purchasing food as needed using appropriate ordering guides and procedures.
• Follows proper procedures for receiving and storing all food and supplies.
• Trains new cafeteria workers and substitutes as needed.
• Participates in catering activities as needed on and/or off site.
• Performs inventory of supplies, food, and non-food items as needed.
• Responsible for filling vending machines if needed.
• Attends food certification classes and other appropriate workshops in accordance with required USDA food and nutrition service, professional standards.
• Coordinates work schedules, arranges for substitutes when required, and verifies employee time sheets.
• Performs any other duties assigned by the Cafeteria or Assistant Food Service Manager.

Requirements

• High School diploma required.
• Knowledge of quantity food preparation and service.
• Attention to detail.
• Knowledge in providing professional customer service.
• Operation of a cash register or point of sale system.
• Previous food service experience preferred.
• Knowledge of the National School Lunch Program preferred.

Qualifications

• Food Managers Certification from the Chester County Health Department.
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver's License.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Lift and/or move between 20 to 35 lbs consistently on a daily basis; occasionally lift up to 40 lbs.
• On a daily basis, tray, pre-portion, and move steam table pans and bun pans weighing 9 to 15 pounds, up to 24 times a day during a 4-hour period.

Schedule

• 7.25 hours per day, 5 days per week, 180 days per year (2026-2027 school year).

Pay

Hourly rate: $19.29 - $20.36 based on experience in a similar position.

Benefits

• Benefits eligible.