Culinary Professional for Preschool

Job SummaryThe Culinary Professional is responsible for preparing and cooking the lunch service for the young attendees and teachers, according to already created recipes and standards. This role requires strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen setting. The ideal candidate will be warm and responsible, with a passion for food, an appreciation for young children, and a desire to continuously learn and grow.

ResponsibilitiesPrepare and cook food items according to standardized recipes, production sheets, and quality standards.

Ensure all food is prepared in a timely manner and presented on time for lunch services.

Monitor food quality and freshness, and make adjustments as needed.

Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, following all health and safety regulations, and leaving the space show ready at the end of each service.

Properly store and rotate food inventory to minimize waste.

Assist with inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stocking suppliesOperate and maintain kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.

Collaborate with other kitchen and preschool staff to ensure smooth, joyful service and efficient operations.

Communicate effectively with other cooks and preschool staff, as well as parents and children attendees.

Adhere to all Kids by the Sea company policies and procedures.

Participate in ongoing training and development programs.

QualificationsProven experience (4 years minimum) as a prep or line cook, Chef, or similar role in a professional kitchen environment.

Culinary degree or relevant certification preferred.

Strong understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.

Ability to follow recipes accurately and consistently.

Knowledge and certification of food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP, San Diego Food Handler s, ServSafe).Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to greet families and their children during the day.

Flexibility to work part-time morning and afternoon shifts during weekdays. Physical stamina to stand for 4-5 hour periods and lift up to 50 pounds.

Pay & ScheduleCompetitive salary based on experience. ($25-$30 per hour)Part time, 4-6 hours per day, morning and early afternoon shiftsWeekdays only, and only while preschool is in sessionTo ApplyInterested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. Please include the answer to this question: What does community mean to you? in your Cover Letter. Next StepsCandidates will be contacted no later than a week after application is received if we want to move forwardWe ask that you stage in our kitchen the week of July 6th for 2 hours before making a final decision. You will be asked to cook some of our lunch program meals for this trial. All groceries, materials and equipment will be provided by the preschool.

Start Date is July 27th, 2026, with two weeks of paid training. Launch of the full service lunch program will begin on August 10th, 2026.