Cook / Office Assistant at Firststepsfargo – Bismarck, North Dakota

Now Hiring: Cook / Office Assistant
Little Scholars Learning Center – North

Position Summary:
Little Scholars Learning Center – North is seeking a dependable, organized, and friendly Cook / Office Assistant to support our childcare center. This role is responsible for preparing nutritious meals for children, managing food program requirements, and helping create a warm and welcoming environment for families each morning. This position also includes assisting with kitchen organization, inventory management, supporting office tasks, floating in all classrooms as needed to ensure proper coverage and ratios, and assisting with transportation when required.

Key Responsibilities:
Kitchen & Food Preparation
Open the childcare center each morning at 6:30 AM
Greet children and families to create a welcoming start to their day
Prepare and serve breakfast and lunch according to scheduled meal times
Follow all North Dakota Food Program guidelines and requirements
Plan and create monthly menus that meet program standards
Ensure proper portioning, food handling, and safety procedures

Kitchen & Cafeteria Maintenance
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment
Wash dishes and sanitize kitchen equipment and surfaces
Clean and reset cafeteria areas after meals
Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations

Food Program Management
Accurately track daily meal counts
Maintain required food program documentation and records
Ensure ongoing compliance with state food program regulations

Inventory & Supplies
Manage inventory for kitchen and laundry room supplies
Create weekly shopping lists based on center needs
Order food, cleaning supplies, and kitchen materials
Keep pantry, refrigerator, and freezer areas organized

Center Support
Assist the Director with office tasks as needed
Provide support in classrooms when additional help is required
Float between all classrooms (infants through school age) as needed for coverage
Help maintain proper child-to-teacher ratios at all times
Support classroom routines and transitions when assisting
Transport children for school transportation or field trips as needed
Contribute to a positive, team-oriented work environment

Qualifications:
Experience in food preparation, kitchen management, or childcare food service preferred
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Ability to plan menus and manage inventory effectively
Strong organizational and time management skills
Friendly, professional, and welcoming personality
Valid driver’s license required
Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and stand for extended periods
Must pass all required background checks

What We’re Looking For:
Reliable and punctual
Organized and detail-oriented
Passionate about providing healthy meals for children
Flexible team player willing to support multiple areas of the center

Work Schedule:
Monday – Friday
6:30 AM – 3:30 PM
(1-hour unpaid break)

About Us:
Little Scholars Learning Center – North is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for both children and staff. We value teamwork, flexibility, and a shared passion for early childhood education.