Childcare Cook

Child Development Schools, Inc. • Charlotte, NC

13h

About The Position

As a Childcare Cook at Child Development Schools, you will help support the health and wellbeing of children by preparing nutritious meals and snacks that contribute to their growth, energy, and development. You will work in a fast-paced kitchen environment and follow program standards and menu plans.

The role also involves accommodating documented dietary restrictions, allergies, and special needs; maintaining food safety and sanitation; tracking meals, inventory, and supply needs; and maintaining kitchen equipment. During non-kitchen hours, you may support classroom staff with activities and supervision.

Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with more than 270 centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years. The organization states its commitment to high-quality developmental education, diversity, equity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunity.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Valid food handler's permit, or ability to obtain one before starting.
• Experience in food preparation, kitchen operations, or food service.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage meal timing for multiple classrooms.
• Physical ability to meet kitchen demands, including standing for extended periods, lifting, and working with heat.
• Genuine care for children's wellbeing and a positive, team-oriented attitude.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience cooking for children or working in an institutional food service setting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks for children according to menu plans and CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines.
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and storage procedures to maintain a clean and compliant kitchen.
• Accommodate documented dietary restrictions, allergies, and special needs of enrolled children.
• Track meal counts, food inventory, and supply needs, and communicate with center leadership.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and promptly report maintenance needs.
• Support classroom staff during non-kitchen hours as needed, including assisting with activities and supervision.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, plus short- and long-term disability coverage for full-time employees.
• 401(k).
• Nine company-paid holidays and eight days of PTO.
• 50% discount for the employee's own children enrolled at a CDS center.
• Up to $5,250 in annual tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Access to PerkSpot discounts on major brands and services.
• Coaching, mentoring, and ongoing professional development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED