Cook

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in the childcare center in compliance with the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), DHS Licensing, Health Department standards, and agency policies. This position ensures safe food handling, accurate recordkeeping, and a clean, sanitary kitchen environment, while supporting classroom staff during mealtimes.

Exceptional Benefits Package

✅ 100% Employer-Paid Health Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Dental Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance
✅ Low-Cost Vision Insurance Available
✅ 5% Employer Contribution to Your 401(k) After One Year of Service — No Employee Contribution Required
✅ Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
✅ Professional Development Opportunities
✅ Meaningful Work Serving Children and Families

Specific Duties of the Job

1. Meal Preparation & Service
   1. Prepares meals and snacks according to approved menus, CACFP guidelines, and portion requirements.
   2. Ensures meals are age-appropriate and meet nutritional standards.
   3. Delivers meals and snacks to classrooms on schedule and assists staff during mealtimes when needed.
2. Food Safety & Sanitation
   1. Follows all DHS Licensing and Health Department food safety and sanitation standards, including proper food storage, handling, and preparation.
   2. Maintains a clean and organized kitchen, including equipment, appliances, and storage areas.
   3. Ensures proper labeling, dating, and rotation of all food items.
3. Menu & Compliance Documentation
   1. Assists with menu planning under CACFP guidelines.
   2. Accurately maintains food service records, including menus, meal counts, and production records.
   3. Submits required food service documentation to the Center Manager or Central Office as directed.
4. Inventory & Ordering
   1. Monitors food and supply inventory, prepares order requests, and checks deliveries for accuracy.
   2. Ensures supplies are available to meet daily meal service needs.
5. Team & Program Support
   1. Works collaboratively with center staff to support nutrition education and healthy eating practices.
   2. Assists with classroom mealtimes to encourage family-style dining and positive child interactions.
   3. Provides additional support during special events and family engagement activities.
6. Other Duties
   1. Complies with DHS Licensing, CACFP, Health Department, and agency policies and procedures.
   2. Maintains confidentiality of child and family information.
   3. Performs other duties as assigned by the Center Manager.

Education and Experience Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Training or certification in nutrition, food service, or related field.
• Previous experience in institutional, school, or childcare food service preferred.

Licensing & Training Requirements

Must obtain food safety certification (ServSafe or equivalent) within 90 days of hire and maintain current certification thereafter.