Cook Assistant - Part Time 20/hrs week at Childrens Learning Center Inc – Madras, Oregon

Cook Assistant

Job Description

Reports to: Family Services Manager

Supervises: n/a

Terms of Employment: Non-Exempt PART TIME - Approximately 20 hrs/ week. 9-month employee.

(Revised/Reviewed January 2026)

Position Purpose: To assist in the planning and preparation of attractive USDA approved meals while keeping the kitchen areas clean and sanitary according to Health Department ordinances. Assists the cook in ensuring that all performance standards within the component area of nutrition are met and that The Children's Learning Center policies and procedures are carried out. Ensure support of the cook and kitchen in the areas of dishwashing, clean up, kitchen sanitation and assistance with food preparation. Currently, this role is a part time 20 hours/week position.

• Assist in maintaining strict meal schedules.
• Assist in preparing family-style meals for children, volunteers, and staff.
• Purchase food and supplies according to planned menu and seasonal availability.
• Purchase all food at designated market according to budget and procurement policies.
• Receive orders from vendors, ensuring that proper items have been delivered.
• Store food and supplies properly.
• Adhere to sanitation and safety procedures prescribed for the center's kitchen, i.e. proper food temperatures, storage and preparation guidelines.
• Maintain the safety of the environment for staff and children.
• Assist in completing routine maintenance of kitchen and equipment.
• Utilize the cook as resources to assist in meeting USDA and Head Start requirements.
• Take responsibility for the kitchen when the cook is not present.

Food Prep

• Assist in assembling food dishes, utensils and supplies needed for timely meal preparation.
• Assist in preparation of breakfasts, lunches, and snacks that meet CACFP and Program guidelines.
• Assist in preparing and sorting food for delivery to classroom.
• Deliver prepared meals and snacks from the kitchen to the classrooms.
• Assist in preparing food for special events.

Clean Up

• Wash dishes pots, pans and utensils using approved sanitation methods and store them in the appropriate area.
• Return all items to their proper storage site.
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen at all times.
• Clean and sanitize food carts daily.
• Ensure disposal of garbage each school day.

Data, Monitoring, Recording and Tracking

• Assist cook where needed with various record keeping.
• At direction of cook, write notes and memos.

General Staff Responsibilities:

• Fulfill role as mandated reporter as stated in Child Abuse and Neglect Mandatory Reporting Policy.
• Maintain confidentiality in regards to staff and family information.
• Maintain objectives and professional standards.
• Demonstrate commitment to mission, values, and policies in the performance of daily duties.
• Familiarity with employment policies, performance standards, work plan and objectives of the center.
• Maintain congenial and respectful relations with staff, children, families and community.
• Communicate effectively with staff and volunteers.
• Maintain positive communication with parents.
• Encourage parents to attend monthly parent meetings and activities.
• Attend meetings, trainings and appropriate professional development activities as assigned to improve self-skills and education.
• Attend monthly parent meetings and center activities, contributing relevant information to your component area.
• Be present at work in order to provide consistency of services.
• Be a contributory team member in a positive/productive manner.
• Delegate and assign tasks as described in the job descriptions and center policies.
• Keep current and accurate records.
• Perform any other work-related duties as requested by your supervisor.
• Utilize the teacher, other staff, and resource library for technical assistance.
• Respond appropriately to crisis or emergency situations as designated by policies and procedures.
• Assist team members, parents, and volunteers in maintaining an orderly, safe, and attractive center.
• Assure general maintenance and security of facility and assist with inventory of equipment and supplies.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience/Documentation Required:

• Employment is conditional pending immediate and continued enrollment in Child Care Division Central Background Registry.
• Employment is conditional pending current physical examination and TB screening documentation upon hire.
• The ability to function and perform tasks associated with kitchen environment.
• Ability to lift or move objects of approximately 40 pounds.
• Ability to navigate hallways using handcarts and push carts.
• Current Food Handler's Card.

Preferred Requirements:

• High school education or equivalent
• Previous experience in a professional food production operation.