Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join the E & E Angel's Learning Academy Family!
E & E Angel's Learning Academy is looking for a dependable, organized, and caring Early Childhood Education Cook to prepare nutritious meals and snacks for children in our licensed childcare center. We are seeking someone who enjoys cooking, values cleanliness and food safety, and understands the important role healthy meals play in a child's growth and development.
Position Summary:
The Childcare Center Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet the nutritional guidelines established by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Ohio Department of Children & Youth (DCY) regulations, and center policies. The Cook is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen while ensuring food is prepared safely and served on schedule.
Qualifications:
Required:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Previous cooking or food service experience.
- Ability to pass Ohio BCI/FBI background checks.
- Ability to work independently and efficiently.
- Excellent attendance and punctuality.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Verifiable professional references.
Preferred:
- Experience working in a childcare center, school, healthcare, or commercial kitchen.
- Knowledge of CACFP meal pattern requirements.
- Knowledge of Ohio Department of Children & Youth (DCY) health and sanitation regulations.
- ServSafe Food Handler or Food Protection Certification (or willingness to obtain).
Responsibilities:
Food Preparation:
- Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks according to the approved menu.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served on time.
- Follow standardized recipes and portion sizes.
- Accommodate food allergies, medical diets, and special dietary restrictions as directed.
- Prepare meals that are appealing, fresh, and age appropriate.
Kitchen Operations:
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times.
- Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, utensils, cookware, and food preparation equipment.
- Sweep and mop kitchen floors daily.
- Clean and sanitize refrigerators, freezers, counters, shelves, sinks, ovens, microwaves, and food preparation surfaces.
- Remove trash and maintain a clean kitchen environment throughout the day.
Food Safety & Compliance:
- Follow all CACFP meal pattern requirements and maintain accurate meal counts and production records.
- Properly label, date, rotate, and store all food items.
- Monitor food temperatures during cooking, holding, cooling, and serving.
- Check expiration dates daily and discard expired or spoiled food.
- Follow all Ohio Department of Children & Youth (DCY) health and sanitation regulations.
- Maintain strict handwashing and food safety procedures.
Inventory & Ordering:
- Monitor food and supply inventory.
- Notify the Director when food or kitchen supplies are running low.
- Assist with grocery shopping or receiving deliveries when assigned.
- Organize pantry, refrigerator, and freezer storage areas using the First In, First Out (FIFO) method to reduce waste.
Team Responsibilities:
- Communicate professionally with administration and classroom staff regarding meal schedules and children's dietary needs.
- Assist with meal service and classroom support when needed.
- Participate in staff meetings and required trainings.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.
Skills & Abilities:
- Passion for preparing healthy meals for young children.
- Excellent organization and cleanliness.
- Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Dependable, punctual, and self-motivated.
- Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
- Professional communication with staff and families.
Physical Requirements:
- Stand for extended periods of time.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks.
- Work in a warm kitchen environment.
- Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
Why Join Our Team?
At E & E Angel's Learning Academy, our cook plays an essential role in supporting children's health and development. We are looking for someone who takes pride in preparing nutritious meals, maintaining a clean kitchen, and creating a positive experience for every child we serve.