School Chef

The Gardner School • La Grange, IL

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Gardner School of LaGrange Park is hiring a School Chef to prepare and serve meals in its preschool. The chef confirms weekly menus with the school director, manages food and supply inventory and orders, and prepares meals according to approved menus and applicable food safety, sanitation, and nutrition guidelines. The role also includes maintaining a clean, organized kitchen, washing dishes, and assisting in classrooms or other areas for short periods as needed. Candidates must have dietary allergy knowledge and be physically able to perform the position’s duties, with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.
• Eligible 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 knowledge of dietary allergies.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus other benefits to fit individual needs.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Childcare tuition discount for toddlers and up.
• Paid time off.
• Holidays off.
• No late nights or weekends.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED