Assistant Cook

Support for Early Learning & Families (SELF) seeks an experienced, engaging, and dedicated Assistant Cook to join our educational community. This is a part-time, non-exempt position reporting directly to the Center Director. This position is based in Vancouver, WA.

Who is SELF?

Support for Early Learning & Families (SELF) is a nonprofit organization founded in response to the question, “How can we work to improve opportunities for our community’s children?” This question is at the heart of the work that we do.

SELF Mission:

Support for Early Learning & Families envisions a Southwest Washington where every child thrives through equitable access to quality, affordable early care and education—powered by a united community of families, educators, leaders, and advocates.

We work in partnership with the Educational Service District (ESD) 112 to staff and facilitate numerous childcare centers in the southwest Washington area. Our programs are designed to support children at ages ranging from birth, to preschool, to school age. We have program types to support children of all backgrounds and needs. We pride ourselves on fostering a community that helps our mission by helping each other.

To learn more about SELF, we invite you to visit our website: www.SELFwa.org

Job Title: Assistant Cook

Employment Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Center Director

Supervises: N/A

About the Assistant Cook Position:

Under the supervision of the Center Director the Assistant Cook is responsible for the safe preparation, delivery, and service of nutritious meals and snacks within the child care Center. They are accountable for cleaning and sanitizing of equipment and facilities, record-keeping and other related duties as required in accordance with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) regulations, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and other applicable federal, state and local regulations and guidelines.

What could you bring to SELF?

• Energetic, and mission-focused with a passion for early childhood development, learning and fun!
• Professional and positive disposition that demonstrates a strong work ethic, integrity and reliability.
• Passionate about supporting the growth and development of children through child-lead programming
• Collaborative, positive, and team oriented.
• Proactive in actively contributing to the learning and work environment and demonstrating the ability to handle multiple priorities and emergent program needs.
• Appreciation for and commitment to supporting children and families with diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds.
• Interest in professional development and growth.

What could SELF offer you?

• A competitive compensation package with an hourly position range. This position is eligible for overtime.
• A 401(k)-retirement savings plan with up to 2.5% employer match.
• Sick Time Accrual
• Paid holidays
• Life Insurance- $10,000.
• The general work schedule is Monday through Friday business hours, with some work hour flexibility as needed.
• Availability is requested occasionally for paid in-service meetings or professional development events, or other work needs.
• Discounted childcare for preschool and school-aged children.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Quarterly passes to Columbia Sportswear and Adidas employee store.
• A collaborative, mission-focused organizational culture with continuous professional development opportunities.
• An opportunity to make a difference in our community!

Qualifications and Skills:

• 18 years of age or older.
• Ability to work effectively independently and within a team.
• Ability to follow directions and be flexible in the completion of assigned tasks.
• Ability to work an opening or closing shift, depending on the need.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, busy environment with constant interruptions, while maintaining a focus on efficient and safe meal preparation to meet program requirements.
• Ability to operate a variety of kitchen appliances and instruments including cutters, knives, mixers, and ovens safely.
• Must present a professional and orderly demeanor in behavior and dress.
• Experience working with children and in a food setting.
• Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds of families served.
• Knowledge of USDA regulations and record-keeping requirements preferred.

Employment Requirements:

• Successful completion of a portable background check (PBC) and clearance through the Department of Children Youth and Families prior to working in program.
• Valid Food Handler’s Card required prior to working in program.
• Negative TB test completed within the previous twelve months prior to working in program.
• Documentation showing immunity to Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR), either vaccination records or results of a Titer test prior to working in program.
• Completion of HIV/Blood Borne Pathogens training prior to working in program.
• Valid Oregon or Washington State driver's license, a record of no DWI convictions or other violations which have resulted in the suspension or revocation of a driver's license in the preceding three years, and proof of automobile insurance as mandated by Washington State law.
• Ready access to a personal, legally licensed motor vehicle.