Childcare Kitchen Specialist

Childcare Kitchen Specialist Gig Harbor, WA Job Details Part-time | Full-time $17.33 - $32.22 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Paid time off Employee discount Qualifications Nutrition Hygiene practices (early childhood general education) Grilling Childcare CPR Certification Sautéing Maintaining an organized workspace Food safety management Inventory management Dishwashing Menu concept development First aid Baking Sanitation procedures Broiling Working with children First Aid Certification Plating Materials management in food and beverage Food ordering Communication skills Food Handler Certification Entry level Time management Kitchen organization

Full Job Description Position Summary:

We are seeking a reliable, creative, and organized Kitchen Coordinator to support our Christian childcare center. This role goes beyond basic food prep—we are looking for someone who enjoys creating nutritious, appealing, and child-friendly meals and snacks that encourage healthy eating habits and a positive dining experience. This position also plays a key support role in the overall daily operations of the center, assisting with classroom coverage and maintaining health and safety standards. There is opportunity for this role to grow in the future as we expand our meal program.

Key Responsibilities:

Prepare and serve daily breakfast and afternoon snack in a family-style setting Assist with simple meal prep , with potential to expand into lunch preparation in the future Create monthly menus that are balanced, nutritious, and age-appropriate Introduce creative, fun, and engaging snack ideas that encourage children to try new foods Handle food preparation , including washing, cutting, and assembling meals/snacks Manage grocery shopping (in-person and/or online) while staying within budget Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen , including dishwashing and sanitizing surfaces Prepare daily bleach/sanitizing bottles in accordance with childcare health guidelines Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations Monitor food inventory and communicate supply needs in a timely manner Accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions as needed Provide classroom support and break coverage for staff as needed

Qualifications:

At least 18 years of age Cleared Portable Background Check Negative TB Test Valid Food Worker Card Current CPR/First Aid Certification and Bloodborne Pathogens training Completion of Childcare Basic Training (DCYF training portal) Experience in food preparation, childcare, or a similar role preferred Passion for working in a child-centered environment Ability to prepare simple, nutritious meals and snacks Comfortable assisting in classrooms when needed Creative approach to food presentation and menu planning Strong organizational and time management skills Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) food safety and sanitation guidelines Ability to work independently and take initiative

Preferred Qualities:

Warm, positive attitude aligned with a Christian-based environment Flexible and team-oriented mindset Creative in making meals fun and engaging for children Dependable and self-motivated Strong communication skills

Work Environment:

Christian childcare setting Fast-paced, team-oriented environment Opportunity to grow with the role as the program expands

Pay:

$17.33 - $32.22 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid time off

Work Location:

In person