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.
• Make accommodations for special dietary needs.
• Maintain accurate records, both on paper and in designated online systems.
• 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.
• 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.
• Protect the safety of children by implementing active supervision techniques to ensure no child is left alone or unsupervised at any time.
• 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, including food safety requirements.
• Ability to keep all information on families strictly confidential.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an environment of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

The base pay for this position is starting at $15/hour. Actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to, experience, credentials, base salary of internal peers, and other relevant qualifications specific to the role.

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurances.
• 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 with at least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of basic food preparation and kitchen operations.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children.
• Proven teamwork orientation and customer service skills.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Knowledge of working with preschool children and infants/toddlers.
• Ability to follow directions and take initiative.
• Commitment to fostering an environment of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.