Preschool Cook

Future Kids Academy at West Palm Beach Future Kids Academy is seeking a dedicated and organized full-time Preschool Cook to join our team. This critical role ensures that our preschool children receive nutritious and delicious meals daily while promoting positive and healthy eating habits. The position combines culinary management with essential support for our center's day-to-day operations. The Role Reporting to the Director, the Preschool Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing meals in accordance with the federal food program and managing all food service operations for the children in our care.

Schedule & Compensation Position Type:

Full-time Hours:

Generally Monday through Friday, with hours typically falling between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Extended hours may be required.)

Pay Rate:

$14.00 - $15.00 per hour Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary training or relevant experience preferred. 2 or more years of professional cooking experience for large groups of people. 45 DCF Hours Completed. Safe Serve Certification preferred. Knowledge of food safety guidelines and regulations. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication skills. Must be able to successfully pass a post-offer FDLE background check. Physical Requirements Candidates must be able to perform physical duties including: Frequent walking and standing (over 50% of time) Regular lifting and carrying of 25 pounds, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Regular bending, squatting, stooping, kneeling, rising from the floor, and performing repetitive or fine hand movements. Ability to multi-task and work effectively in a high-stress, loud environment.

Key Responsibilities Meal Preparation and Service:

Plan, prepare, and cook daily breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack for all preschool children, adhering to provided menus and specified portion sizes.

Compliance and Safety:

Adhere to best practices for safe and sanitary food handling, including temperature checks, cleaning, and sanitizing kitchen equipment and preparation areas. Maintain accurate documentation and tracking of all meals served for compliance with the federal food program, reporting promptly after each meal service. Thoroughly clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment and ensure hazardous objects and toxins are securely stored away from children's reach.

Inventory and Ordering:

Collaborate with the Center Leadership team to purchase all necessary food and supplies, receive and inspect food upon delivery, and maintain accurate inventory and record-keeping (including refrigerator/freezer temperatures).

Child Safety:

Keep detailed records of and monitor all child food allergies and dietary restrictions, prioritizing their safety, and informing teachers daily of identified allergies with each meal delivery.

General Support:

Assist in the office with welcoming children or in classrooms when required, and ensure the front office area is tidy during the lunch hour.

Pay:

$14.00 - $15.00 per hour

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

professional cooking: 1 year (Required)

Language:

English (Required)

License/Certification:

ServSafe (Preferred) 45-Hour DCF certification (Required)

Work Location:

In person