Cook

Job Title: Childcare Center Cook

Position Summary:

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines and Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) regulations. This role ensures safe food handling, proper storage, and a sanitary kitchen environment. The Cook also accommodates special dietary needs and supports an inclusive environment consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Essential Functions:

• Plan and prepare meals and snacks that meet USDA CACFP requirements and Delaware childcare nutrition standards.
• Post menus in advance and update as required by OCCL licensing.
• Prepare food in appropriate portions and textures for different age groups, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
• Store and rotate food according to Delaware Food Code standards (FIFO, proper labeling, refrigeration ≤41°F, freezing ≤0°F).
• Maintain kitchen sanitation: clean and disinfect equipment, utensils, and food prep surfaces daily.
• Keep accurate records of food purchases, inventories, menus, and temperature logs for licensing inspections.
• Ensure safe operation and basic maintenance of kitchen equipment, report malfunctions promptly.
• Follow OCCL licensing rules, including health and safety standards, and cooperate with inspections.
• Provide meals and snacks without discrimination and modify menus as needed for allergies, medical conditions, or cultural/religious dietary needs.
• Work collaboratively with staff and communicate with families about menu planning and dietary accommodation.
• Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance.
• Perform other duties to help drive our vision, and fulfill our mission, that “The poor should never be treated poorly”.

Education/Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent-REQUIRED
• Experience in cooking and/or food preparation for multiple individuals in a childcare setting - PREFERRED

Skills and Knowledge:

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices in compliance with Delaware Food Code and OCCL regulations.
• Understanding children nutrition needs, portion sizes, and age-appropriate food preparation.
• Ability to plan menus, manage inventory, and maintain accurate records.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively with children, staff, families, and regulatory inspectors.
• Basic computer or record-keeping skills for documentation and reporting.
• Physical ability to lift 35 lbs., stand and walk for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks safely.
• Must be able to climb flights of steps numerous times a day.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Must be able to complete and pass drug screening.
• Willingness to consent to and the ability to pass an FBI fingerprinting background check, (candidate will assume all cost incurred).
• Provide appropriate documents to complete the I-9 requirement.