School Cook

Join our team and help nourish the minds and bodies of young learners! As a Cook at Heartfelt Impressions Learning Center in Rochester, MI, you will prepare and serve well-balanced, nutritious meals and snacks to children to expand their palates and help them explore new foods. Heartfelt Impressions believes that our menu is an extension of our children's learning and discovery of healthy choices. We utilize shared mealtimes between students and teachers to promote great eating habits. Our menus follow CACFP guidelines, providing whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables, proteins, and dairy to support children's development.

Schedule

Full-time, Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Pay

$18.00/hour (rate may increase with experience plus ServSafe certification).

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals and snacks following approved menus and portion guidelines.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen, equipment, and food storage areas.
• Follow all food safety and hygiene protocols, including proper food handling and storage.
• Assist with inventory management and notify supervisor of supply needs.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and cookware used in meal preparation and service.
• Ensure meals meet dietary restrictions and allergy accommodations as directed.
• Collaborate with teaching and administrative staff to coordinate meal times and delivery to classrooms.
• Maintain accurate records of food temperatures, cleaning schedules, and meal counts.
• Adhere to licensing and regulatory requirements for early childhood food service.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in food preparation, preferably in a childcare or institutional setting.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices (ServSafe certification required).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Flexibility to work on short notice and adapt to changing schedules.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Must pass background checks and health screenings as required by state regulations.

Benefits

• Paid professional development.
• Childcare discount (Tri-Share center/employer).
• Medical, dental, vision, and short-term disability insurance.
• Free Telehealth and EAP (day 1).
• Aflac Supplemental Insurance.
• Paid time off.
• 401K with company match.
• Paid Planning Time.
• Referral bonuses.
• Annual performance reviews and increases.
• Free breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
• Birthday benefits.

Work Environment

Fast-paced kitchen setting within an early childhood education center. Interaction with children, staff, and families may occur. Requires adherence to strict health and safety standards.

Our Rochester campus has six classrooms and the capacity to care for 79 children. Our rooms are open with a lot of natural light, and we have age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Our campus has earned a Certificate of Recognition from Great Start Quality (the equivalent of a five-star rating).