Cook - Progress Early Learning Center - Quick Hire!

The hiring establishment is a reputable agency committed to providing nutritious and appealing meals within a child care environment that complies with stringent standards such as the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Head Start performance guidelines. This agency operates within early childhood education settings, focusing on serving children aged 0-5, including those enrolled in Early Head Start (EHS) programs. The company prioritizes health, safety, and nutritional education as integral parts of their service, ensuring that both children and their families receive support not only in nourishment but in understanding best feeding practices aligned with developmental needs. As a full-time workplace, the agency offers excellent benefits and paid time off to promote work-life balance and employee satisfaction. The starting wage for the Cook position is $19.46 per hour, reflecting a competitive compensation package in the child care food service sector. The Cook plays a vital role in this agency by serving as a role model for nutritious meal preparation and championing food safety and sanitary habits within the kitchen and child care environment. The position demands an individual committed to preparing and serving meals that are not only appetizing and flavorful but also meet CACFP requirements and the agency's high standards. The Cook is responsible for educating staff and families on the nutritional needs of young children, supporting age-appropriate feeding practices, and maintaining compliance with Head Start performance standards. This role extends beyond meal preparation to include purchasing food and supplies within budgetary guidelines, maintaining sanitation and safety protocols, overseeing kitchen workers, and performing accurate documentation and record keeping. In this comprehensive role, the Cook coordinates with nutritionists and center staff to address individual nutrition needs and collaborate on family and community events. They are also actively involved in feeding infants and toddlers, ensuring all meals adhere to dietary guidelines that limit sugar, salt, and fat while advocating for healthy eating habits. Additionally, this position requires proficiency in inventory management, purchasing, and following strict sanitation guidelines set by county health departments and the agency itself. The Cook must maintain an orderly and safe kitchen environment, displaying required posters and adhering to proper handwashing and health routines. The role demands an individual who can communicate effectively in both verbal and written English, demonstrates excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, and possesses a strong understanding of food safety regulations. Physical stamina and dexterity to perform tasks that involve lifting, carrying, pushing, and standing for extended periods are also essential. The Cook must be capable of managing kitchen schedules, training staff and volunteers, and positively interacting with children, parents, and co-workers. Employment for this position is contingent upon meeting pre-employment health screenings, enrollment in background registries, and obtaining the necessary driving credentials including a valid Oregon driver’s license and personal automobile insurance. Certifications in Food Handlers and Pediatric CPR/First Aid are required but can be obtained post-hire, demonstrating the agency's investment in employee development. Overall, this Cook position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to child nutrition and health within a supportive, structured, and mission-driven early childhood education environment, ensuring meals are delicious, nutritious, and supportive of children's growth and well-being.

• None required education
• One year of experience cooking and food preparation
• Food service, management and buying experience preferred
• Food Handlers Certification
• Pediatric CPR/First Aid Certification
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
• Ability to manage food budget and inventory
• Sufficient math skills for measurements and conversions
• Ability to complete food preparation within required time frames
• Knowledge of state food sanitation regulations
• Ability to multitask and exercise logical judgment
• Ability to work as a team member and be self-directed
• Ability to maintain confidential information
• Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 35 lbs
• Ability to frequently push and pull up to 35 lbs
• Sufficient mobility and stamina to perform physical job duties up to 8 hours daily
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle
• Approval to drive and maintain driving credentials including Oregon driver’s license and personal automobile insurance
• Successful completion of pre-employment health screening and background checks