Lead Cook

Deer Park School District•Deer Park, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Head Cook is responsible for overseeing the daily preparation and service of nutritious meals in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines within Deer Park School District’s food service program. This position ensures high standards of food quality, safety, and sanitation while managing kitchen staff, inventory, and meal planning. The Head Cook works closely with food service directors, school administrators, and nutrition guidelines to provide students with balanced meals that support their academic success and overall well-being. Works with third-party management companies to order food and follow USDA guidelines.

Requirements

Food Handler’s permit or ability to secure before the start date
High School Graduate or equivalent
Knowledge of basic food handling techniques, safe work practices, and ability to use basic kitchen tools and equipment.
Knowledge and support of established standards of sanitation for self, food handling or preparation, kitchen equipment and cafeteria
Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to work and communicate with students, staff, and third-party management company
Ability to follow oral and written directions
Demonstrated skill in approaching issues positively and proactively

Nice To Haves

Strongly prefer previous experience in a school/commercial kitchen
Prefer formal cooking training

Responsibilities

Prepares food within the established production system as assigned by the menus/recipes provided.
Follows established procedures for accurate checking and shipping of meal components to satellite locations if needed.
Must be able to follow oral and written directions
Stocks, portions, and serves food in a neat and sanitary manner
Reports any quality or recipe design issues to the manager
Follows established preparations, service methods, and food handling techniques to ensure acceptable standards
Follows USDA requirements and reports any issues or compliance concerns to the manager
May wash dishes, utensils, pots, and pans and operate a dishwasher
Maintains all OSPI and HACCP recording requirements.
Prepares food/milk orders and maintains necessary supplies for assigned meals.
Completes required monthly inventory.
Monitors functioning of the kitchen, reporting issues to the principal and/or manager
Maintains a positive, motivating, and caring attitude for students and is able to supervise and work well with those students assigned to the office.
Works well within the team environment in individual kitchens, departments, and schools.