The Cook is a critical role within a large system of services provided to children and families. A strong food service program is important to supporting the goals of the Head Start/Early Head Start program. You will be responsible for the ordering, preparing, serving, and documentation of meals and snacks served to children, including following menus and all phases of kitchen operations including inventory control.

You will contribute to the smooth operations and functioning of the kitchen in adherence to health and food safety codes and the strict cleanliness of the kitchen and food service and storage areas. You will prepare foods for infants and toddlers and/or preschool children following the USDA/CACFP standards. This role may involve reassignment to various kitchens/centers as deemed necessary for program operations.

As a front line representative of Save the Children, the position holder is required to ensure the safety and security of children and families that he/she comes in contact with and represents the agency values of Accountability, Ambition, Collaboration, Creativity, and Integrity.

What You’ll Be Doing (Essential Duties)

• Prepare and serve food and assist in any food-related activities as directed and menus as approved by registered dietitian/nutritionist. These duties may include the preparation of food to meet the needs of children with special needs or disabilities.
• Maintain accurate records, both on paper and in designated online systems.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.
• Oversee maintenance of inventory for all necessary supplies, food, and equipment used for food services operations.
• Safely operate, clean, and maintain utensils and equipment used in an institutional kitchen.
• Adhere to and ensure sanitation requirements are met when storing, handling, and preparing food.
• Oversee full kitchen operations and may supervise additional staff or volunteer assistance.
• Implement a cost-effective food service program according to federal, state, and local regulations.
• Ensure that standardized recipes are followed and appropriate quantities of food are prepared and served in accordance with the CACFP meal requirements.
• Prepare and serve all meals as planned, paying attention to food presentation and freshness.
• Distribute and post weekly menu.
• Deliver food to classrooms and other Centers, where applicable.
• Protect the safety of children by implementing active supervision techniques.
• Organize self and manage time to get things done.
• Build effective relationships within their workgroup and with children/families.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, plus at least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated commitment to service to children.
• Proven relevant knowledge of basic food preparation and kitchen operations.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children and to work well with staff, parents, and families.
• Proven commitment to teamwork and customer service orientation.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Proven teamwork orientation and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience having met Health Department Regulations, USDA and Head Start Standards is preferred.
• Previous experience working with CACFP is preferred.
• Certification in ServSafe is preferred.
• Bilingual is preferred (English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area).

This position may require the incumbent to operate a motor vehicle to fulfill certain essential functions of the job. The incumbent should maintain a valid driver’s license and remain in compliance with any Save the Children policies pertaining to the safe operation of motor vehicles.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Pet insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Generous vacation and personal sick leave.
• Family leave and parental/adoption leave.
• Commuter benefits.
• Dress for your day policy.

• High school diploma plus at least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of basic food preparation and kitchen operations.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children and work well with families.
• Proven teamwork orientation and organizational skills.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Ability to follow directions and take initiative.
• Understanding of Head Start/Early Head Start program goals.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.