Preschool Chef/Classroom Floater

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Signing bonus
• Training & development
• Tuition assistance
• Vision insurance
• Free uniforms

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Lead Teacher to join our AMAZING team.
 
As Preschool Cook & Floater Teacher, you are a TLE Happiness creator and an ambassador of happiness. This role makes a difference in the lives of children, their families, and our community in two ways: by preparing nutritious, delicious daily meals for our children, and by providing flexible classroom support across the center.
 
In the kitchen, the Preschool Cook & Floater Teacher plans, prepares, and serves healthy meals that meet nutritional requirements while keeping every child with a food allergy safe. In the classroom, the Preschool Cook & Floater Teacher helps teachers maintain a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment, assists teachers as needed, helps maintain ratios, and supports daily operations while following the center's curriculum and licensing requirements.
 
Duties and Responsibilities
Kitchen

• Plan, prepare, and cook healthy, delicious meals and snacks for children that meet proper nutritional requirements.
• Maintain and track food allergies for each child in the center, and communicate identified allergies to teachers with every food delivery.
• Follow proper food safety, handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.
• Collaborate with center leadership to purchase food and supplies, and keep inventory records as local and state agencies require.
• Keep the kitchen clean, organized, and inspection-ready.

Classroom Support

• Provide classroom coverage during breaks, staff absences, and peak times to keep daily operations running smoothly.
• Maintain state-required staff-to-child ratios at all times.
• Assist lead and assistant teachers with daily classroom activities and routines.
• Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment by upholding TLE Austin Mueller's high standards for organized classrooms, so children can explore and learn with confidence.

Across the Center

• Collaborate with fellow teachers and staff to support a positive, joyful learning environment and strong center culture.
• Provide excellent customer service and a positive attitude toward parents and children; listen and communicate effectively.
• Communicate any concerns about children, classroom operations, food safety, or general safety to center leadership promptly.
• Be flexible and adaptable to the daily needs of a childcare center, moving between the kitchen and classrooms as needed.
• Participate in all required staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and training sessions.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (mandatory)
• 1 year of experience in food preparation and cooking
• Food handler certificate, or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire
• CPR/First Aid certification
• Familiarity with the Texas Minimum Standards
• Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate practices
• Ability to pass background checks
• A "Happy Happens Here" attitude: this is a fast-paced role that moves between the kitchen and the classroom

Working Conditions
This is a full-time, hourly position in a licensed childcare environment, serving children ages 6 weeks through 6 years. Time is split between the center kitchen and classrooms based on daily needs.
 
Physical Requirements

• Lift at least 40 pounds
• Walk up and down stairs
• Stand for extended periods while preparing and serving meals; Sit on the floor for extended periods
• Sit, stand, bend, and interact with children at their level for extended periods
• Perform cleaning and physical activity related to kitchen and classroom upkeep

Join our awesome team at The Learning Experience Mueller and help make a difference. Apply now to become our Preschool Cook & Floater Teacher!