Preschool Cook

Chesterbrook Academy•Raleigh, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Chesterbrook Academy is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks for students. Our balanced, STEAM-focused approach helps students become creative problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and confident leaders, and a well-run kitchen is an essential part of the safe and welcoming school environment that supports their success. As the Cook, you will prepare, portion, and serve food in accordance with approved menus, child nutrition guidelines, food safety standards, and established food production procedures. You will maintain a clean and organized kitchen, manage food inventory and required records, and help ensure that allergies and special dietary needs are addressed carefully. This role also uses food, supplies, and equipment thoughtfully to minimize waste and support the school’s food service budget.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or GED required
At least two years of relevant experience in a licensed childcare kitchen, commercial kitchen, school cafeteria, or comparable food service setting
Food handler permit or license as required by state or local regulations
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, safe storage, child nutrition, age-appropriate portions, and allergy protocols
Strong organization, communication, teamwork, and customer service skills
Ability to read menus, sanitation requirements, ingredient labels, and allergen information and maintain accurate written or electronic records
Ability to stand and walk frequently and safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds while performing kitchen duties
Ability to successfully complete all required criminal background checks without exemption
Ability to meet applicable state education and licensing standards and maintain required credentials and professional development

Nice To Haves

ServSafe certification or a manager-level food handler certification preferred

Responsibilities

Plan, post, and follow approved menus, making appropriate substitutions when necessary
Prepare, cook, portion, and serve age-appropriate meals and snacks at safe temperatures and in appropriate serving containers
Monitor daily food quantities based on student attendance and maintain accurate meal, snack, inventory, and ordering records
Follow all food allergy and special dietary requirements, maintain current allergy information, and review ingredient labels carefully
Receive, store, and rotate food and supplies safely using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method
Maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen, including counters, shelving, appliances, dishes, cookware, utensils, floors, and waste containers
Keep kitchen equipment in safe working order and promptly report maintenance needs, safety concerns, or incidents
Follow all company and local health, sanitation, hygiene, emergency, and food service requirements
Collaborate with school leaders and staff while providing courteous, responsive service to students and families
Support other school needs as assigned, including occasional classroom coverage when needed and appropriately qualified