Position Summary:

The Assistant Kitchen Cook supports the preparation and service of nutritious, high-quality meals and snacks for children enrolled in the organization's early childhood programs. This position assists with menu planning, food preparation, ordering, meal service, kitchen sanitation, food storage, and maintaining compliance with applicable food service and nutritional guidelines. The Assistant Kitchen Cook works collaboratively with classroom staff and the kitchen team to ensure meals are prepared and served safely, accurately, and on schedule. Responsibilities Assist with creating and planning weekly menus that comply with CACFP meal requirements, USDA nutrition requirements, and applicable childcare licensing standards. Prepare meals and snacks using approved recipes, menus, and food products consistent with CACFP requirements. Ensure meals contain the required food components and appropriate quantities to meet CACFP meal pattern requirements. Prepare appropriate amounts of food based on classroom enrollment and meal counts while minimizing waste. Work with classroom staff to collect accurate meal counts before beginning food preparation. Ensure meals and snacks are served to each classroom on schedule and at appropriate temperatures. Ensure appropriate portion sizes are provided to children based on applicable CACFP meal pattern and age-group requirements. Follow approved substitutions and dietary accommodations in accordance with CACFP, Department of Children and Youth licensing requirements, and organizational policies. Participate in required CACFP, food safety, and other applicable training. Assist with placing weekly food orders through approved vendors. Receive, organize, and properly store groceries, food orders, and non-food supplies. Monitor food inventory and notify appropriate staff when supplies need to be ordered or replenished. Check food items regularly for expiration dates and proper storage. Ensure food is stored, handled, prepared, and served in accordance with applicable food safety and sanitation requirements. Monitor food temperatures and ensure thermometers are clean, functional, and properly maintained. Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen and food storage areas throughout the day. Clean kitchen surfaces, equipment, appliances, floors, and other areas as needed throughout the workday. Remove trash and recyclables from the kitchen and designated areas daily. Follow established food safety, sanitation, cleaning, and health procedures. Report damaged equipment, safety concerns, food quality issues, or other kitchen concerns to the appropriate supervisor. Required Qualifications Previous experience in food preparation, food service, childcare food service, or a related environment preferred. Knowledge of CACFP Program preferred. Knowledge of basic food preparation, sanitation, and safe food-handling practices. Ability to follow recipes, menus, portion requirements, and food safety procedures. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate professionally and respectfully with children and adults. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Successful completion of:

BCI and FBI background checks, physical exam and TB test, pre-employment drug screening, first aid and CPR certification, child abuse and communicable disease training. Physical Requirements Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday. Frequently bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and move throughout the kitchen and facility. Lift and carry food, supplies, equipment, and other items up to 50 pounds. Safely operate kitchen equipment and appliances. Safely maneuver carts, food containers, and other kitchen equipment as needed. Work in an environment that may include heat, cold, noise, and exposure to cleaning products. Perform repetitive tasks associated with food preparation, cleaning, dishwashing, and meal service. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Pay:

$15.00 - $16.00 per hour

Experience:

Kitchen:

1 year (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person