School Chef

The Gardner School•La Grange Park, IL

8d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The Gardner School of LaGrange Park is hiring a School Chef to prepare meals in its preschool facility. The chef confirms weekly menus with the school director, works within the school’s budget, manages kitchen inventory and orders, and prepares meals according to approved menus. The role also involves maintaining food safety, sanitation, nutrition, and kitchen cleanliness standards, as well as washing dishes. The chef may help in classrooms and other areas for short periods as needed and must maintain regular, reliable attendance. The position requires knowledge of dietary allergies and the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. The stated starting pay range is $18.00–$20.00, depending on experience and qualifications. The school describes its setting as a state-of-the-art preschool and offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, a childcare tuition discount, paid time off, and holidays off. The posting says there are no late nights or weekends.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of dietary allergies and food safety regulations.
Previous experience in food preparation and cooking, including large-volume cooking.
Proficiency in various cooking techniques and methods.
Experience with menu planning and meal preparation.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Effective time management and multitasking abilities.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Physical ability to bend, squat, lift up to 60 pounds, and stand or walk for extended periods.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Current SafeServe certification, or willingness to obtain it.
Valid driver's license.
Enjoy working with young children.
Ability to pass a criminal background check.
Eligibility to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Knowledge of food safety regulations and guidelines.

Responsibilities

Confirm weekly menus with the school director.
Adhere to the school's budgetary needs.
Maintain inventory and complete weekly food and supply orders.
Prepare and cook meals according to approved menus.
Ensure food is cooked and served at the correct temperature.
Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized kitchen area.
Wash dishes.
Follow state and federal food safety, sanitation, and nutrition guidelines.
Perform essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Help in classrooms and other areas for short periods as needed.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Apply dietary allergy knowledge.