Preschool Chef

The Learning Experience•Mesa- Eastmark, AZ

13d

About The Position

At The Learning Experience, Cooks prepare nutritionally balanced, appealing family-style meals for children and help create a joyful, safe, and thriving environment. They follow state and federal nutrition guidelines, center budget practices, and health and safety protocols while working collaboratively with the center team. The role also includes supporting children in classrooms when needed and maintaining positive relationships with families, staff, and regulatory representatives. The Learning Experience provides early education through a curriculum focused on six ages and stages of childhood development. Its hands-on activities encourage children to explore and solve problems at their own pace, supporting learning, play, and growth.

Requirements

Meet state-specific educational and role guidelines.
High school diploma or GED.
At least 18 years of age.
Relevant experience in a licensed childcare facility kitchen, commercial kitchen, public school cafeteria, or equivalent.
Possess a valid food service or food handler’s permit or license as required by state or local regulations.
Follow state and federal requirements, including immunizations, physicals, and training.
Ability to supervise children by sight and sound.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift and carry up to 40 pounds safely.
Ability to reach, stretch, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and retrieve food from shelves at varying heights using stools or ladders.
Ability to work portions of the day outdoors in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F.
Maintain the alertness and energy needed to perform essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

Early childhood education coursework.

Responsibilities

Understand state nutritional requirements for children.
Plan, post, and follow approved, nutritionally sound menus, making alternate substitutions as needed.
Maintain accurate inventory records and order food within the center’s food budget.
Prepare and serve food in amounts based on daily attendance.
Serve food at appropriate temperatures and in classroom-safe containers.
Store food, supplies, and equipment safely in accordance with state and local regulations.
Maintain accurate meal and snack count records per CACFP guidelines, if applicable.
Follow health, hygiene, and safety procedures, including proper lifting and handwashing techniques.
Regularly empty and sanitize trash receptacles.
Wash and sanitize dishes and cookware using approved methods.
Clean and maintain kitchen appliances, counters, and shelves, and manage spills as needed.
Understand and follow applicable emergency procedures.
Maintain a positive attitude, ask for help when needed, and collaborate with team members.
Build respectful, supportive relationships with regulatory representatives and center staff.
Handle routine situations with good judgment, flexibility, and positivity; support group decisions and demonstrate team spirit.
Build friendly rapport with families and provide outstanding customer service.
Conduct food shopping as necessary and assist in classrooms when needed.
Use sound judgment to identify and address risks in a childcare environment.
Help ensure children's safety and meet their needs, including diapering, dressing, grooming, and feeding.
Model and promote positive social behaviors and strong communication.
Support child development through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Maintain composure, patience, and professionalism.
Perform other duties as assigned.