Childcare Cook

Child Development Schools • Charlotte, NC

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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 meet young children's needs and program standards. The role works in a fast-paced kitchen environment and follows menu plans and CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines.

The cook follows food safety, sanitation, and storage procedures; accommodates documented dietary restrictions, allergies, and special needs; tracks meal counts, inventory, and supplies; and maintains kitchen equipment. During non-kitchen hours, the cook 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 says it is committed to high-quality developmental education, supporting families and communities, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. It provides equal employment opportunities regardless of the protected characteristics listed in the posting.

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 in an institutional food service setting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks for children according to menu plans and CACFP 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 them to 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, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage for full-time employees.
• 401(k).
• 9 company-paid holidays and 8 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
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED