Center Cook

Summary

Position Overview

The Center Cook is responsible for preparing healthy meals for center programs according to applicable regulations and supporting the implementation of nutrition activities for the children participating in Center programs

Duties

Responsibilities, include but are not limited to:

 

Program Management

• Create/ maintain a 6 week menu cycle including a variety of fresh foods as available
• Prepare quality nutritional food, in quantity, as needed and in compliance with the Child Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Health Department regulations    
• Ensure ordering/purchase of sufficient quantities of food to fulfill meal requirements
• Work with staff and families to incorporate meal substitutions for any allergies or nutrition needs
• Complete prep, service and clean up before and after each meal
• Provide feedback to staff and supervisor regarding any training needs and compliance
• Complete monthly paperwork according to scheduled deadlines, including meal counts
• Support Executive Director with implementation of nutrition initiatives and training plans as directed

 

Compliance, Trainings and Certifications

• Comply with and use of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services Child Care Regulations and CRCC Policies and Procedures consistently;
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and/or in service training sessions as scheduled including CACFP;
• Commitment to ongoing staff development in keeping with NYS OCFS Licensing Requirements; keep abreast of current research and practices in the Early Childhood Nutrition Education Field.   
• Perform regular cleaning and safety checks to ensure a proper working kitchen
• Ensure proper maintenance of the Kitchen; Inform Executive Director as needed of repairs/maintenance issues as needed.

 

Working Relationships

• Directly report to Executive Director, or designated staff member in the absence of Executive Director
• Work collaboratively with other staff members
• Maintain positive work environment by being professional, courteous and confidential

 

Working Conditions

Must be physically able to perform the job of Cook including standing for long periods and lifting up to 30 pounds. Must have a warm, supportive attitude toward children. Must be reliable. Must be flexible with scheduling, receiving assignments, and adapting to changes in the program. Must be willing to accept directions to improve work performance and maintain best practices within the center. Must maintain a positive presence as a role model for staff/families/children. 

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED, Nutrition studies background a plus
• 1 year FTE experience preparing large quantity meals and maintaining a budget
• Ability to complete reports as assigned, willingness to adopt center systems for recordkeeping