Description

The Cook position is responsible ordering, preparing and serving of food in compliance with the Child and Adult Food Program (CACFP); the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA); New Jersey Department of Health Sanitary Code, Chapter 12, Sanitation Regulations and the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) in his or her designated Pre-K or Infant/Toddler Program. This position maintains the daily functions and full operations within the kitchen, directs the nutrition staff in the performance of their duties and adheres to the HOPES CAP, Inc. Policies & Procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Understand and strictly adhere to all guidelines and regulation pertaining to food management in the Nutrition Section of the Early Childhood Development and Nutrition Services Content Area as described by the CACFP, USDA, HSPPS, and N.J. Department of Health Sanitation Regulations.

• Cook, prepare, set-up, and clean-up after breakfast, lunch, and snacks as planned on menus, as well as food for special events (celebrations, field trips, etc.) and food arrangements or displays for classroom events and parent functions.

• Understand and implement the program's School Readiness Plan, inclusive of activities to support the Parent, Family & Community Engagement goals and outcomes. 

• Order and receive all food and nutrition supplies.

• Check all orders for accuracy and inspect food for quality and freshness at time of delivery.

• Work with the Nutrition Services Supervisor in planning menus and, at times, with Nutritionist to recommend menu items and provide appropriate meal substitutions when needed according the dietary needs and individualized menus.

• Maintain an up to date inventory sheet of equipment and food at sites and maintain clean and sanitized work area. 

• Work closely with vendors and works in conjunction with other HOPES Programs as needed. 

• Participate in meetings, conferences and Professional Development as required by designated program. 

• Promote and engage in parent and children participation in the nutrition activities to support School Readiness goals.

• Conduct and document follow-up contacts for all services provided, identify, resolve and communicate obstacles and challenges to supervisors promptly.

Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: (Must be fully met in order to qualify for position)

• High School Diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience and obtain Food Handlers Certification within 90 days of employment.
• Basic computer skills to allow access to HOPES CAP, Inc. email and Employee Self Service to be able to maintain communication within Agency.
• Ability to speak, read, write, comprehend, process, interpret follow and carry out instructions spoken in the English language and written in a variety of documents and reference relevant to the job.