Job Description
Job Description
Summary
The Cook plays a key role in supporting children's health and learning by preparing fresh, nutritious meals that meet CACFP standards for a preschool of 60 children. This position ensures a safe, organized kitchen environment and works closely with staff to promote positive, family-style dining experiences.
Duties
Here is a polished, professional list of duties suitable for a preschool cook job posting:
Primary Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks in accordance with program guidelines, ensuring proper cleanup and sanitation following each service.
- Plan weekly menus in collaboration with the Director, aligning with nutritional standards and accommodating dietary needs or restrictions.
- Post and maintain current menus for families and staff, updating promptly to reflect any changes.
- Order food, groceries, and related supplies from approved vendors, ensuring cost-effective purchasing and timely replenishment.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment, ensuring all equipment, tools, and work areas are kept in good working condition and meet licensing health standards.
- Conduct regular inventory of food, paper goods, and kitchen supplies, reporting needs and ensuring adequate stock.
- Attend required trainings as mandated by state regulations or requested by the Director.
- Support and train classroom staff in proper procedures for serving family-style meals.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director to support the smooth operation of the program.
Requirements
Job Requirements
- Ability to lift, bend, crouch, and carry items as needed to complete daily kitchen tasks.
- Ability to reach at and above shoulder height to access shelving, dishes, food items, and supplies.
- Capability to stand for extended periods and move frequently throughout the work shift, including repeated position changes.
- Current ServSafe Food Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
- Strong understanding of safe food-handling, hygiene, and kitchen sanitation practices.
- Ability to follow CACFP guidelines and center policies related to nutrition and meal service.
- Strong teamwork skills with the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with staff and leadership.
- Excellent time-management and organizational skills, with the ability to plan ahead and work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Dependability, punctuality, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Must pass required background checks and meet all state licensing requirements for employment in a preschool setting.