Cook (Child Nutrition Program) in Santa Rosa, California at North Bay Children

Cook (Child Nutrition Program)

This is not a typical restaurant or food service cook role — our Cook independently prepares nutritionally balanced meals for preschool-age children in a licensed childcare setting, following CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines. We're looking for someone who enjoys cooking for large groups, is comfortable working independently, and is willing to learn the nutrition and portioning standards specific to CACFP.

The person selected for the Cook position is required to possess or have the ability to possess a "ServSafe" Certification and at least 1 year of cooking experience — Required.

CACFP experience is preferred but not required; training will be provided.

Responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to the following:

● Maintain sanitary standards and practices for the kitchen daily.

● Independently prepare breakfast, lunch, and snack for preschool-age children across multiple classrooms, following standardized menus and CACFP meal patterns.

● Deliver and pick up food to and from classrooms.

● Clean, wash, and sanitize classroom dishes.

● Fill food and general kitchen work orders and maintain supplies for classrooms.

● General cleaning, sanitizing, and upkeep of kitchen, appliances, and utensils.

● Modify recipes and food textures to meet the developmental and safety needs of young children (e.g., cutting grapes, avoiding choking hazards).

● Accommodate documented food allergies and dietary restrictions for individual children per classroom rosters.

Position Requirements:

● Prepare and serve all meals and snacks in accordance with the regulatory requirements of the CACFP.

● Demonstrate proficiency in food preparation skills and techniques appropriate to a food service operation.

● Willingness to learn general nutrition and CACFP meal patterns (training provided).

● Maintain the kitchen in an organized, clean, and sanitary manner.

● Attend all scheduled NBCC Staff Development Days as well as any other NBCC events deemed appropriate or mandated.

● Possess a valid California driver's license and an insured automobile.

● In cooperation with the Site Supervisor, obtain appropriate substitutes when ill, for vacation, and any other time off-site for any reason.

● Participate in sessions deemed beneficial to the Department's goals and personal professional goals.

● Demonstrate the ability to work as a team member with respect, trust, and professionalism with all co-workers at all times.

● Adhere to all NBCC policies and procedures as mandated by the VP of Programs and in accordance with NBCC's Employee Handbook.

● Promptly direct any relevant feedback (positive or negative issues) to the Site Supervisor or Area Director.

● Reports to the Site Supervisor; coordinates with the Kitchen Manager and Food and Nutrition Specialist on menus, training, food purchasing and compliance.

● In accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act, this position is non-exempt and subject to overtime compensation.

● Appropriate dress that is comfortable and non-restrictive must be worn (professional kitchen attire, no open-toe shoes).

● Practice health and safety guidelines for food preparation (e.g., handwashing, hair pulled back with a hairnet, low, comfortable shoes).

Child Interaction:

● Give warm and positive attention to children during food delivery and classroom interactions.

● Recognize and consider each child in relation to cultural and ethnic background and respond to each child with dignity and respect.

● Adhere to all CCL Personal Rights requirements. Children in childcare programs must not be subjected to corporal or unusual punishment, including yelling, spanking, humiliation, mental abuse, or punitive interference with daily living functions such as speaking, sleeping, or toileting.

Work Environment:

● Noise level in the work environment is frequently loud.

● Will work outdoors and indoors.

● Will use computers, tablets, cell phones (if provided), and other office equipment.

● Will work independently and with other peers and supervisors.

● Will use kitchen appliances.

● Health clearance by a physician required.

● Ability to fulfill physical requirements of the job, including frequently lifting up to 50 pounds and a range of movement including walking, lifting, squatting, bending, reaching, twisting, carrying, standing, and sitting.

● Proof of current immunizations (COVID-19, Measles, Pertussis, Influenza, and T.B. clearance within the past year).

Job Type: Full-time/Full Year

Benefits:

● Employee discount for childcare services

● Health & Dental insurance

● Paid time-off

● Immediate eligibility for 403(b)

Schedule:

● Day shift

● Monday to Friday