Assistant Cook

Acelero Learning•South Amboy, NJ

7d•$20 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Are you a socially conscious, dedicated individual who is committed to building a better future for children, families, and their communities? If so, join us as we support early childhood education programs across the country to create positive outcomes for the children and families served. As an Assistant Cook at Acelero Learning, you will play a vital role in supporting the health, nutrition, and well-being of children ages 3–5 within our Head Start program. This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to school readiness by ensuring children receive nutritious, culturally responsive, USDA-approved meals in a safe and sanitary environment. You will work collaboratively with the Cook, Center Director, and program staff to maintain high standards of food safety, organization, and service. If you are passionate about supporting children and families through quality nutrition and care, we welcome you to join our mission-driven team. Why Acelero? Our mission is bold: To design and deliver research and evidence-based approaches to eliminate the gaps between young children’s inherent potential and their achievement in school and life. With our partners, we accelerate child and family outcomes that honor the aspirations and cultures of the communities we serve. Our values guide everything we do: Data-Informed Learning; Transparent & Open Communication; Growth Mindset; Championing Equality; Caring Teams & Communities. Your Role As an Assistant Cook, you will support the implementation of food services within our Head Start program. You will assist in preparing nutritious meals that meet USDA guidelines, maintain compliance with Health Department regulations, and ensure food inventory and documentation standards are upheld. You will also help support family-style dining practices and accommodate children’s individual nutritional and allergy needs.

Requirements

Commitment to Child Nutrition: Knowledge of early childhood nutrition and the importance of healthy meals in supporting learning and development.
Educational Background: High School Diploma or equivalent (preferred).
ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain certification within three months.
Experience & Skills: Experience preparing culturally diverse meals for groups.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
Computer literacy, including Google Suite and basic data management systems.
Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and maintain reliability.
Collaboration & Inclusion: Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and support an inclusive environment.
Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to stand, bend, walk, and perform repetitive hand movements as required in a kitchen setting.
Additional Requirements: Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation.
Ability to travel up to 10% for meetings or work-related functions.
Successful completion of required physical exam and background checks.

Responsibilities

Prepare Nutritious Meals: Assist in preparing assigned menus that meet USDA standards and reflect children’s cultural and nutritional needs.
Support Family-Style Dining: Work in partnership with the Cook to monitor family-style dining in classrooms and document compliance as required.
Maintain Food Safety Standards: Monitor and maintain appropriate food temperatures during preparation and storage. Ensure refrigerators and freezers meet required temperature standards.
Manage Inventory & Orders: Conduct weekly food and supply inventory. Complete and submit order sheets as directed. Store food properly, date items accurately, and follow FIFO inventory practices.
Ensure Compliance & Documentation: Maintain food service records and reporting in alignment with supervisor guidance and regulatory standards.
Promote Safe & Clean Environments: Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen materials, equipment, and workspace in accordance with Health Department requirements.
Address Dietary Needs: Remain informed of food allergies and dietary restrictions and assist in preparing alternate menu items as needed.
Participate in Team Engagement: Attend required meetings, events, and professional development sessions.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with multiple plan options to fit your needs
Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $400/individuals & $800/family annually
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses
401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 3% company match
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance
Up to $500 per year in Professional Development Reimbursements
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling and mental wellness support
Wellness Programs, including virtual fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes
Pet Insurance, Legal Assistance, ID Theft Protection, and Employee Discount Perks
Ability to make an impact in the lives of the children, families, and partners we serve
Career growth and professional development opportunities
Supportive working environment
Average of 5 weeks of paid time off during 1st year of employment
Comprehensive benefits, including 401K matching and 100% vesting program