Kitchen Cook - Full Time

The School Kitchen Cook is responsible for assisting with the preparation and service of nutritious meals for students and staff while maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen environment. This position plays an important role in supporting the district’s child nutrition program by preparing food according to established recipes and nutrition guidelines, helping ensure compliance with state and federal school meal regulations, and contributing to a positive dining experience for students.

The Kitchen Cook prepares and cooks menu items according to the district’s meal program requirements, assists with food preparation for breakfast and lunch service, and ensures proper portioning and presentation of meals. The position includes operating standard kitchen equipment, maintaining food safety and sanitation standards, monitoring food temperatures, and properly storing food and supplies. The Cook also assists with inventory, receiving deliveries, and maintaining organized storage areas.

This role requires working collaboratively with other kitchen staff and following direction from the Child Nutrition Manager to ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule. The Kitchen Cook also helps maintain a clean kitchen, including washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and ensuring compliance with health department and district sanitation standards.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Experience in food service, school nutrition programs, or commercial kitchens is preferred but not required. The successful candidate should demonstrate reliability, the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, strong teamwork skills, and the ability to follow recipes and food safety procedures.

Physical Requirements:

The position requires standing for extended periods, lifting up to 40 pounds, bending, reaching, and working in a warm kitchen environment.

Background Check Requirement:

Applicants must be able to successfully pass a background check in accordance with Arkansas law as a condition of employment.