Cook (2026 - 2027 School Year)

Cook

POSITION DESCRIPTION

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: This position is required to have a minimum of a high school degree. Experience working in the food service and working with children is preferred but not required. Proficiency in various computer programs in Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Word, and a variety of other program wide software.

QUALIFICATIONS: This position is required to perform the duties outlined in this job description. The cook will complete Serv Safe Certification and any necessary certifications within 6 months of employment. The cook must have a working knowledge of nutrition, food preparation and food safety and have an interest and concern for the philosophy and concept of the Head Start Program. Head Start children and families will always come first, in this Head Start Program, above all defined duties, perceived responsibilities and/or personal priorities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position should be able to lift a minimum of 30 lbs. and occasionally heavier items. Be able to stand for long periods of time while cooking and be able to walk throughout the kitchen and dining room comfortably.

WORK ENVIORONMENT: Work is generally performed in an indoor, kitchen setting, well-lit, well-ventilated, heated, and air-conditioned environment. It is at times a high-paced position. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but during class time, it can become noisy.

WORK SCHEDULE: This position is expected to work a total of 8 hours per day Monday through Friday, as per contract in accordance with the Head Start calendar.

SUPERVISION: The cook is accountable to the Education Coordinator assigned to their work area. But also, the Nutrition Manager for training and food safety. This position does not directly oversee any positions but will work closely with the assistant cook if applicable for your center.

EVALUATION: The Education Coordinator will evaluate this position with help from the Nutrition Manager. They will conduct a 90-day review upon hire and yearly, thereafter.

OBJECTIVES:

1. To follow menus and prepare food that is nutritious and appealing by following the proper health rules and regulations.

2. To establish and maintain an eating environment that is safe, clean and calm.

3. To relate to children and families in an open, considerate and friendly manner when serving meals, inviting families to become involved with their child during mealtimes and when obtaining information about specific food allergies.

4. To fill out and submit all necessary paperwork in a timely manner.

5. To continue to improve in all areas as a person through continued education, training opportunities and evaluation recommendations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Key Result Area #1: Food Preparation

1. Follow menus and prepare the appropriate amounts of food.

2. Follow health rules and regulations for safe food handling which include wearing a hair net and closed-toed, non-slip shoes.

3. Purchase groceries, monitor food/kitchen deliveries and store foods properly.

Key Result Area #2: Maintaining the Environment

1. Maintain a safe, clean, organized work environment.

2. Clean food preparation and eating areas according to cleaning schedule.

3. Maintain a calm, relaxed atmosphere by serving meals on time.

4. Role model good eating habits and table manners.

Key Result Area #3: Working with children and families

1. Work with staff and parents of children with modified diets or allergies.

2. Obtain input from families on menu ideas, including cultural meal ideas representative of families in the program.

3. Coordinate and plan nutritional activities with staff, children and parents.

4. Provide appropriate guidance to children.

5. Join the children in the classroom when time permits.

Key Result Area #4: Administrative Responsibilities

1. Complete and submit the required paperwork in a timely manner (including, but not limited to purchase orders, meal counts, production records and inventory).

2. Post the menu in the kitchen and classroom each month.

3. Participate in staff training and weekly staff meetings.

4. Attend monthly in-service.

5. Attend parent meetings, as requested.

6. Complete an inventory of all materials and equipment in the kitchen and eating area.

7. Janitorial duties as needed.

Key Result Area #5: Community Representative

1. Have knowledge of community resources to be able to link families with appropriate services and agencies and to use as resources for enhancing nutritional activities.

2. Relating in an open and friendly manner and acting as a positive representative of Head Start while working with vendors and people in the community.

Key Result Area #6: Professional Development

1. Have documentation of the Serv Safe Certification Course or complete courses within 6 months of employment and become recertified every 5 years, as per South Dakota’s requirements.

2. Obtain and keep current First Aid training, as required by the program.

3. Attend meetings, training courses, seminars and monthly in-services as deemed appropriate; this may include out-of-town/state travel.

4. Maintain any education credentials and submit a copy to the main office to be kept in the employee file.

5. The Cook will strictly follow, and then lead by example, in all Head Start Policy and Procedures daily.

6. The Cook will strictly follow, and then lead by example, in all Head Start Policy and Procedures and Performance Standards daily.

** This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee will also perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by immediate supervisor and/or other management as required.**

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $13.00 - $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Experience:

• Restaurant experience: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Aberdeen, SD 57401: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $13 - $15