Substitute Cook

Are you a socially conscious, dedicated individual who is committed to building a better future for children, families, and their communities? If so, join us as we support early childhood education programs across the country to create positive outcomes for the children and families served.

Job Summary

As a Substitute Food Service Worker at Acelero Learning, you will play an essential role in supporting the health and well-being of children by preparing and serving nutritious meals that meet USDA and CACFP standards. This position supports center operations by ensuring food is safely prepared, transported, stored, and served while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.

The Substitute Food Service Worker will also support children’s individual dietary needs, cultural preferences, and food allergy accommodations while following all health, sanitation, and food safety requirements.

Why Acelero?

Our mission is bold: To design and deliver research and evidence-based approaches to eliminate the gaps between young children’s inherent potential and their achievement in school and life. With our partners, we accelerate child and family outcomes that honor all of the aspirations and cultures of the communities we serve.

Our values: Data-Informed Learning; Transparent & Open Communication; Growth Mindset; Championing Equality; Caring Teams & Communities.

Your Role

As a Substitute Food Service Worker, you will help create a safe and healthy learning environment by preparing meals that fuel children’s growth and development. You will maintain food safety standards, support kitchen operations, and collaborate with center staff to ensure children receive meals that meet nutritional and dietary requirements.

What You’ll Do

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve family-style meals for children, staff, and volunteers.

• Ensure meals are delivered to classrooms in the correct quantities and at safe temperatures.

• Follow USDA and CACFP guidelines for portion sizes and menu compliance.

• Safely store food and supplies using FIFO inventory practices.

• Track and support food allergies and dietary substitutions for assigned center locations.

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen environment.

• Wash dishes and maintain kitchen equipment including ovens, warmers, dishwashers, mixers, and refrigeration units.

• Dispose of garbage daily and sanitize food transport containers.

Recordkeeping & Compliance

• Maintain temperature logs for food and kitchen equipment.

• Document menu substitutions and special diet accommodations.

• Complete cleaning checklists and maintain kitchen documentation binders.

• File food delivery forms and maintain required records for compliance reviews.

• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Team & Safety Support

• Maintain a safe environment for children and staff.

• Follow OSHA, sanitation, and universal precaution guidelines.

• Support center operations as needed and perform additional duties assigned.

What You Bring

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

• ServSafe Certification preferred.

• Ability to complete required physical examination and background clearances.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of food preparation, sanitation, and safe food storage procedures.

• Ability to learn USDA/CACFP standards and Head Start Performance Standards related to food and nutrition.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

• Basic computer literacy skills, including Microsoft Office and internet navigation.

• Dependable, flexible, and detail-oriented.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the kitchen for extended periods.

• Ability to tolerate heat and noise commonly found in kitchen environments.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to carry food and serving items up multiple flights of stairs.

• Ability to perform repetitive wrist, hand, and finger movements.

When/Where/How Much

When: September 2026
Where: Acelero Learning
Position Type: Substitute / As Needed

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

• A mission-driven organization focused on creating equitable opportunities for children and families

• Supportive and collaborative team environment

• Professional growth and development opportunities

• Meaningful work that positively impacts children every day

• Inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and belonging

If you are passionate about supporting children’s health, nutrition, and early learning experiences, we encourage you to apply and become part of our caring team at Acelero Learning.

Why Acelero Learning or Shine Early Learning?
- Ability to make an impact in the lives of the children, families, and partners we serve
- Career growth and professional development opportunities
- Supportive working environment
- Average of 5 weeks of paid time off during 1st year of employment
- Comprehensive benefits, including 401K matching and 100% vesting program

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and healthy work place.