NC PreK Nutrition Specialist (Preschool Cook) (9:00AM-1:00PM)

Wonder Academy•Lake Park, NC

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Wonder Academy is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Preschool Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years in accordance with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines, North Carolina child care licensing requirements, and all applicable food safety standards. The Preschool Cook plays an essential role in supporting children's health and well-being by preparing quality meals, maintaining accurate records, ensuring food safety, and keeping the kitchen clean, organized, and operating efficiently.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous experience in food service, school nutrition, childcare, or commercial kitchen operations preferred.
Knowledge of safe food handling, sanitation procedures, and kitchen safety practices.
Experience with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines is preferred but not required.
ServSafe Food Handler or Food Protection Manager certification preferred (or willingness to obtain if requested by Wonder Academy).
Must obtain a North Carolina Child Care Criminal Background Qualification Letter.
Must complete a Health Assessment and Tuberculosis (TB) Screening as required by North Carolina child care licensing.
Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
Dependable, professional, and passionate about supporting children's health and nutrition.

Responsibilities

Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks according to approved menus and USDA CACFP meal pattern requirements.
Ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule while maintaining high standards of quality and presentation.
Safely prepare, store, label, and serve food following all state and local health department regulations and food safety practices.
Maintain accurate food production records, meal counts, refrigerator and freezer temperature logs, and other required CACFP documentation.
Receive, inspect, organize, and properly store food deliveries using First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory practices.
Monitor food inventory and communicate purchasing needs to administration.
Prepare approved meal substitutions for children with documented food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen, including daily cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation areas, equipment, refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas.
Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, cookware, and kitchen utensils.
Follow all Wonder Academy health, safety, sanitation, confidentiality, and emergency procedures.
Communicate professionally with administrators, teachers, and families regarding food-related questions when appropriate.
Assist with special events and meal preparation as requested.
Work collaboratively with the administrative and teaching teams to create a positive experience for children each day.