Chef/Cook

The Learning Experience - Rosenberg, TX•Rosenberg, TX

2d•$12 - $13

About The Position

The Learning Experience is hiring a Chef/Cook to prepare nutritious meals and snacks for children in an early childhood education center. The role manages daily food preparation, kitchen sanitation, inventory, and meal service while following applicable nutrition, food safety, and childcare requirements. The Chef/Cook prepares age-appropriate meals and snacks, manages kitchen operations and supplies, maintains required records, and communicates with center leadership, teachers, and families. The position also supports positive mealtimes and contributes to a safe, clean, compliant kitchen and a positive experience for children and families.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required, unless otherwise permitted by state requirements.
Must be at least 18 years old.
CPR.
Knowledge of food preparation, sanitation, and safe food handling.
Ability to follow menus, recipes, portions, and nutrition guidelines.
Strong organization and time-management skills.
Food Handler or equivalent certification where required.
Must meet applicable licensing, background screening, health, and training requirements.
Ability to stand for extended periods; bend, reach, and move throughout the kitchen; and safely lift up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Food service experience in a childcare center, preschool, school, restaurant, cafeteria, catering, or commercial kitchen.

Responsibilities

Prepare nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks according to approved menus and nutrition guidelines.
Provide consistent, timely meal and snack service and help create positive mealtimes for children.
Monitor attendance and prepare appropriate food quantities.
Manage food inventory, supplies, ordering, and purchasing within the established budget.
Monitor food quality, expiration dates, and storage.
Maintain required meal and snack records, including CACFP records when applicable.
Communicate supply, kitchen, menu, and meal-service needs to center leadership and the center team.
Follow procedures for food allergies, dietary restrictions, and accommodations.
Work cooperatively with teachers and center staff to support smooth meal and snack transitions.
Follow safe food handling, preparation, storage, cooking, and serving procedures, including maintaining appropriate food temperatures.
Clean and sanitize dishes, cookware, equipment, counters, and food preparation areas.
Maintain an organized kitchen and properly stored food and supplies.
Follow applicable food service, sanitation, health, safety, and licensing requirements.
Prepare and serve food with attention to quality and consistency, and support center events and special meal needs when appropriate.
Maintain professional, dependable working relationships and contribute to a positive experience for children and families.