Cook /

Floater Location:

Little Scholars Learning Center Schedule:

Monday - Friday | 6:30 AM - 3:30 PM Position Summary Little Scholars Learning Center is seeking a dependable, organized, responsible, and caring Cook / Floater to join our team. This position plays an important role in the daily operation of the center and is responsible for opening the center each morning, preparing nutritious meals and snacks, managing the center's grocery budget, price shopping, placing grocery orders, and maintaining accurate food and supply inventory. In addition to kitchen responsibilities, the Cook / Floater will provide classroom support and assist with transportation and other center needs as necessary. The ideal candidate is reliable, budget-conscious, organized, flexible, comfortable working independently, and able to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced childcare environment. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Opening & Daily Setup Open the childcare center promptly at 6:30 AM Complete all required daily opening procedures and prepare the center for the day Ensure the kitchen and food service areas are clean, organized, stocked, and ready for meal preparation Review the day's menu and confirm all necessary food and supplies are available Check in with staff and administration regarding classroom, transportation, or daily center needs Meal Planning, Preparation & Food Service Prepare and serve nutritious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks Plan menus and meals in accordance with CACFP/North Dakota Food Program requirements Ensure meals meet required food components, serving sizes, and nutritional guidelines Maintain accurate food program records, meal counts, menus, and required documentation Follow proper food handling, sanitation, preparation, and storage procedures Monitor and accommodate documented food allergies and dietary restrictions Prepare appropriate quantities based on enrollment and daily attendance to help minimize food waste Grocery Budgeting, Ordering & Price Shopping Manage the center's established grocery and kitchen supply budget Plan grocery purchases based on menus, enrollment, current inventory, and upcoming needs Price shop and compare costs to ensure the center is receiving the best value while maintaining food quality and program requirements Identify cost-effective alternatives when appropriate without compromising nutrition or meal requirements Create and maintain organized weekly grocery lists Place and manage grocery orders according to the center's ordering schedule Review grocery orders for accuracy before submission Receive grocery deliveries and verify that quantities, pricing, and products match the order Communicate substitutions, shortages, significant price changes, or budget concerns to management Monitor food spending and help prevent unnecessary purchases and food waste Maintain receipts, invoices, or other purchasing documentation as required by management Inventory Management Maintain an accurate and organized inventory system for food, kitchen supplies, paper products, and cleaning supplies Complete routine inventory counts Monitor stock levels and anticipate upcoming needs before supplies run out Rotate food using proper FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures Check expiration dates regularly and remove expired or damaged products Keep pantry, refrigerator, freezer, and storage areas organized and properly labeled Track commonly used items to assist with accurate ordering and budgeting Avoid over-ordering and unnecessary waste by reviewing existing inventory before purchases are made Cleaning & Kitchen Maintenance Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, dishes, counters, and food preparation areas after each meal service Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the kitchen, pantry, refrigerator, freezer, and cleaning areas Follow required sanitation and food safety procedures Keep food and cleaning products stored safely and separately Assist with stocking and organizing deliveries and supplies Complete routine kitchen cleaning tasks and maintain a clean, inspection-ready environment Classroom & Center Support Float into classrooms as a teacher or support staff member when needed Assist with maintaining required child-to-staff ratios Help supervise children while maintaining a safe, positive, and nurturing environment Support teachers with classroom transitions, breaks, meals, and other daily needs Assist center leadership with daily operational needs as assigned Be willing to help wherever needed to support the center and team Transportation Duties Assist with school transportation responsibilities as needed Safely transport children in accordance with center policies and procedures Maintain accurate child attendance and transportation records Follow all loading, unloading, supervision, and child safety procedures Complete required vehicle and transportation procedures as assigned Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent preferred Previous experience in food service, childcare, purchasing, inventory management, or a related field preferred Ability to meet CACFP/North Dakota Food Program requirements Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record preferred CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and remain active throughout the workday Strong organizational, time-management, and communication skills Basic math skills and ability to manage a grocery budget and compare pricing Comfortable creating grocery lists, placing orders, tracking inventory, and maintaining records Ability to work independently and complete responsibilities without constant supervision Dependable, flexible, punctual, and team-oriented Preferred Skills Experience working in a licensed childcare center Knowledge of CACFP/North Dakota Food Program regulations Experience with grocery ordering, budgeting, meal planning, or inventory management Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records Ability to plan ahead and anticipate food and supply needs Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities Cost-conscious mindset with an understanding of reducing food waste Positive attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed Benefits Consistent Monday-Friday daytime schedule Supportive team environment Professional development opportunities Opportunity to play an important role in the daily operation of the center Opportunity to make a positive impact on children's health, nutrition, safety, and overall childcare experience Little Scholars Learning Center is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, organized, and positive environment for children, families, and staff. We are looking for a Cook / Floater who takes ownership of the kitchen and food program, understands the importance of staying within budget, and can effectively manage meal planning, grocery ordering, inventory, and daily center support.

Pay:

$15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person