Cook - Preschool and Daycare in Blacksburg, Virginia at Children's Nest Preschool and Daycare

We provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. As our daycare cook, you’ll play an important role in supporting this mission by preparing healthy, delicious meals for the children in our care. The ideal candidate will have experience cooking for large groups, as well as knowledge of child nutrition and special dietary needs. You must be able to work independently and efficiently to maintain our high standards of food safety and cleanliness. Above all, you must be patient, kind, and loving, with a genuine interest in the well-being of children.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Adhere to all state and local health regulations while preparing meals
• Serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks that are nutritious and appealing to children
• Plan menus in advance that meet the needs of the children in the program, taking into account any allergies or dietary restrictions
• Shop for groceries and supplies needed to prepare meals, within the budget set by the program
• Prepare food according to recipes and instructions, using proper food handling techniques
• Supervise kitchen assistants and volunteers, delegating tasks as necessary
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including washing dishes, sweeping floors, and sanitizing surfaces
• Keep accurate records of food temperatures and storage times
• Monitor portion sizes to ensure that each child is getting the appropriate amount of food
• Work with the director and teachers to create a positive dining experience for the children, promoting socialization and good manners
• Assist with other duties as needed, such as serving food in the classroom or cleaning up after mealtimes
• Participate in professional development opportunities to keep up with new trends in early childhood nutrition

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven cooking experience, preferably in a daycare setting
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to multitask and work well under pressure
• Creativity and ability to develop new recipes
• ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain certification

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or culinary arts degree
• 2+ years of professional cooking experience
• Experience working in a daycare or other child-care setting
• Nutrition knowledge and understanding of dietary restrictions and allergies
• First aid and CPR certification