Cook Assistant
About The Position
It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV) is a beacon for educating and uplifting Black children and families across Chicago. We provide a culturally responsive, social justice–centered education that empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and changemakers. At ITAV, learning is joyful and transformative, teaching is innovative, and classrooms extend far beyond four walls. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building strong, connected communities. It Takes A Village Leadership Academy is seeking a dependable and team-oriented Cook Assistant to support the daily operation of the school nutrition program at our Bronzeville K–8 Campus. Working with a team of Cooks, the Cook Assistant helps prepare and serve nutritious meals while maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment. The ideal candidate is committed to food safety, enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, and understands the important role school nutrition plays in student health, learning, and success.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid Illinois Food Managers License
- Ability to follow recipes, written instructions, and production schedules.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to food safety.
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
- Ability to work in hot, cold, and fast-paced kitchen environments.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience in a commercial kitchen, school cafeteria, restaurant, or institutional food service preferred.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
Responsibilities
- Assist with the preparation and serving of breakfast, lunch, snacks, and other approved meal services.
- Follow standardized recipes, portion sizes, and meal production records.
- Prepare food items according to USDA, CACFP, and National School Lunch Program (NSLP) requirements.
- Assist with receiving, inspecting, and properly storing food and kitchen supplies.
- Maintain accurate food production, temperature, and inventory records as assigned.
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and report equipment concerns promptly.
- Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment.
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen, serving areas, storage rooms, refrigerators, and freezers.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, health department, and ITAV policies and procedures.
- Work collaboratively with kitchen staff, school leadership, and other departments.
- Provide excellent customer service to students, staff, and visitors.
- Assist with inventory counts and stocking of food and supplies.
- Support special school events requiring food preparation or service as needed.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support kitchen, site, and organizational needs.
Benefits
- Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverage
- Full benefits package, including Dental, Vision, Legal Services, and Short-Term Disability
- 3% 401(k) employer match
- Up to $10,000 annually in tuition assistance
- 16 PTO days per year
- 9 sick/personal days per year
- Compensatory time eligible
- 15 paid holidays annually
- Clear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunities
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
