Assistant Cook

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Assistant Cook supports the preparation, transportation, and service of nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA/CACFP guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards. This role assists in maintaining kitchen and food service areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition, and is responsible for transporting food between assigned sites. The Assistant Cook contributes to the overall goals of the program by promoting healthy eating habits and supporting a collaborative center environment. 

Key Responsibilities:

Meal Preparation & Service

• Assist in preparing and serving breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to approved menus and USDA/CACFP requirements. 
• Support accommodations for special dietary needs and allergies as directed. 
• Ensure timely delivery of meals to classrooms and maintain appropriate portion sizes. 

Kitchen Operations & Sanitation

• Assist in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils. 
• Follow food safety procedures including proper food handling, storage, and temperature control. 
• Support completion of daily temperature logs and sanitation checklists. 
• Wash dishes and clean kitchen surfaces daily in accordance with health department standards. 

Inventory & Ordering

• Assist in monitoring food and supply inventory. 
• Help receive and inspect food deliveries for quality and accuracy. 
• Maintain stock of milk and paper products. 

Documentation & Compliance

• Support accurate recordkeeping of meals served, food temperatures, and inventory. 
• Assist in submitting required documentation to the Nutrition Specialist or Center Manager. 
• Help review inspection reports and implement corrective actions as needed. 

Food Transportation

• Safely transport prepared food between assigned sites while maintaining food safety standards. 
• Ensure food is delivered on time and in appropriate containers to preserve temperature and quality 

Team Collaboration

• Communicate regularly with center staff to coordinate meal service and classroom needs. 
• Participate in staff meetings and required training sessions. 
• Support classroom as needed. 

(These job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties. Employees will be required to perform other related duties as required.)

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required. 
• Minimum 6 months of related food service experience preferred. 
• Knowledge of USDA/CACFP meal patterns and food safety standards preferred. 
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport food between sites required. 

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. 
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written. 
• Knowledge of proper cleaning techniques and food safety practices. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment. 

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Complete TB screening & physical before having direct contact with children. Renew every 2 years. 
• Current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training. 
• At least 10 hours of state-approved training completed within the first 90 days of employment, if applicable. 
• 25 hours of annual training?(January–December) in topics related to nutrition and food safety, health and sanitation, child development, USDA/CACFP compliance. 
• Complete online Food Handlers course, such as Serving Safe Food in Childcare, within 90 days of employment. 

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

• Indoor classroom and kitchen settings 
• Tolerance for noise and high activity levels 
• Exposure to various cleaning chemicals 

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to?50 pounds?as needed. 
• Frequent?bending, kneeling, squatting, and sitting on the floor. 
• Ability to?stand and walk for extended periods?throughout the day. 
• Capacity to?respond quickly and physically?in emergency situations. 
• Regular?visual and auditory monitoring?of children to ensure safety and engagement. 
• Tolerance for?high noise levels?and a fast-paced, physically active environment.