Child Care Cook/Nutritionist

Child Care Cook/Nutritionist

A Child Care Center Cook prepares nutritious meals, and ensures food safety for children in daycare or early learning programs. The cook works closely with childcare staff to meet dietary guidelines and serve meals on schedule.

Compensation$17- $20

Key Responsibilities

• Meal Preparation: Cook breakfast, lunch, and snacks for children according to approved menus and nutrition guidelines.
• Menu Planning: Help this ideas to create weekly or monthly menus that meet nutritional requirements for young children.
• Food Safety & Sanitation: Follow health department rules for food storage, preparation, and kitchen cleanliness.
• Inventory & Ordering: Maintain food supplies, and track kitchen inventory.
• Dietary Management: Prepare meals for children with allergies or special dietary needs.
• Kitchen Maintenance: Wash dishes, sanitize surfaces, and keep the kitchen organized.

Skills & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent

SafeServe Certified

• Experience cooking for groups or in food service
• Knowledge of nutrition and food safety
• Ability to follow childcare food program guidelines
• Good communication with staff and children

Reporting Structure & Accountability

The Child Care Center Cook typically reports to the Center Director or Program Administrator.

Accountability

The Child Care Center Cook is accountable for:

• Meal Preparation & NutritionPreparing meals and snacks that meet childcare nutrition standards and approved menus (such as CACFP guidelines if applicable).
• Food Safety & SanitationMaintaining proper food handling, storage, and kitchen sanitation in compliance with health department regulations.
• Dietary ComplianceEnsuring accommodations for food allergies, dietary restrictions, and special nutrition plans for children.
• Inventory & Budget ManagementManaging food supplies and monitoring inventory.
• Record KeepingMaintaining meal counts, food logs, temperature logs, and documentation required for food programs or inspections.
• Collaboration with StaffCommunicating with teachers and administrators regarding meal schedules, special dietary needs, and menu planning.
• Kitchen OrganizationKeeping the kitchen clean, organized, and fully compliant with safety and licensing standards.

Expectations & Working Conditions

• Daycare centers, preschools, or early learning programs
• Usually daytime hours (morning to early afternoon)
• May involve standing for long periods and lifting food supplies

Position Summary

The Child Care Center Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children enrolled in the childcare program. This role ensures that all food is prepared in accordance with health, safety, and nutrition guidelines while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment. The Cook plans menus, manages food inventory, and accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies as needed. Working closely with the Center Director and staff, the Cook supports the overall health and well-being of children by providing safe, balanced, and appealing meals each day.