Cook/Food Prep

Children of America•Norwood, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Children of America (COA) is seeking a part-time Cook / Food Prep team member to prepare healthy, appealing meals and snacks for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. COA’s programs include Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp, with meals and snacks cooked onsite. The role interacts with the Management Team and Teaching Staff and supports COA’s mission and values by working collaboratively, maintaining a safe and clean kitchen, and making ethical, accountable decisions that support children and families. Experience cooking for schools or preschools is a plus but is not required; paid training is provided. The hourly rate is $18–$21, based on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. The role may also be eligible for performance-based incentives and additional benefits. All offers are contingent on a successful background check and submission of required state documents. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license.
PlanServSage certification.
Strong work ethic and customer service mindset.
Love for children and working in an early childhood environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience cooking for schools or preschools; this is not required, and paid training is provided.

Responsibilities

Prepare and serve meals and snacks according to posted menus.
Determine meal and snack counts and distribute food to each classroom.
Remove trays and leftover food from classrooms and dispose of it appropriately.
Conduct weekly inventory of food and supplies and submit a list of needed items.
Order food and supplies from approved vendors within the budget set by management.
Check in deliveries to ensure order accuracy.
Keep the kitchen, appliances, cabinets, and inventory organized and clean.

Benefits

Career advancement opportunities across 65+ locations, with promotion from within.
Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance.
401(k) retirement plan.
Paid vacation and sick time.
Company-paid holidays.
50% employee childcare discount.
Subsidized tuition program for continuing education or career advancement, up to $500 per semester.
Annual center performance raise.
Monthly and yearly recognition programs.
Employee referral bonuses.
The role may also be eligible for performance-based incentives and additional benefits.