What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cook II / Early Head Start Dietary Aide position at Talbot County Health Department?
About the Role
Are you passionate about healthy food, community wellness, and supporting early childhood development? The Talbot County Health Department is seeking a dedicated and organized Cook II (Early Head Start Dietary Aide) to lead daily nutrition operations for our Early Head Start program.
In this vital role, you will prepare delicious, wholesome meals for young children, helping establish healthy eating habits that last a lifetime while maintaining the highest food safety and nutrition standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Meal Preparation & Cooking: Plan, prepare, cook, and serve daily breakfast, lunch, and snacks tailored to the developmental and nutritional needs of enrolled children in compliance with USDA and CACFP guidelines.
- Menu Planning & Purchasing: Develop menus according to required nutrition guidelines, order necessary food and supplies, request bids when needed, and maintain inventory records.
- Kitchen Operations & Sanitation: Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, appliances (stoves, ovens, refrigerators, freezers), and storage spaces in accordance with MDH, MSDE, and licensing safety standards.
- Documentation & Compliance: Complete all required recordkeeping for CACFP reporting, document points of service, track purchasing card expenses, and maintain inspection-ready health and safety logs.
- Parent & Community Engagement: Assist with nutrition classes for parents and interact positively with families, community agencies, and program staff.
Position Qualifications & Requirements
- Experience in food preparation, commercial cooking, or dietary support (experience with child nutrition programs or institutional food service preferred).
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation regulations, and USDA / Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) dietary standards.
- Ability to safely operate commercial and household kitchen appliances.
- Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs (food packages, kitchen inventory) and handle standard physical requirements of full-time kitchen work.
- Strong organizational skills for recordkeeping, inventory management, and expense documentation.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive Hourly Wage: $19.85/hour.
- Health Coverage Eligibility: Contractual employees working 30 hours/week are eligible for a 75% State-subsidized medical and prescription plan under the State Employee and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Program. Dental, vision, and life insurance options are also available.
- Paid Leave: Accrue paid leave in accordance with the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act.
- Work-Life Balance: Daytime work schedule with regular hours and no weekend shifts.
Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19 - $20