School Cook I, II - Nuuanu Elementary - Pearl City, HI
Posted on October 24, 2025
The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) is the public school district serving the State of Hawaii, responsible for providing quality education services to students across the islands. HIDOE is recognized for its commitment to fostering educational excellence, student development, and community engagement in a multicultural environment. It operates numerous schools and educational programs, ensuring access and equity for all students. This public institution offers various employment opportunities designed to support both educational outcomes and operational needs throughout Hawaii's school system.
Within this reputable organization, the position of School Cook II plays an essential role in maintaining the health and well-being of students by facilitating nutritious meal preparation and service. This is a full-time, school-year position with a salary range of $4,672.00 per month for School Cook I and $5,054.00 per month for School Cook II, which includes applicable differentials for shortage and school year assignments. The position is vital to ensuring that students receive timely, quality meals that support their academic performance and overall health.
The role requires a dedicated individual to plan, coordinate, and work closely with other food service staff to ensure smooth meal production and distribution both at the school site and satellite locations. The School Cook II must review production records to develop cooking and preparation plans, accurately measure ingredients using standardized recipes, and adjust quantities to meet daily serving requirements. The position involves preparing a variety of foods including breakfast meals, sandwiches, and side dishes, specifically catering to student needs including those with special dietary requirements. It also entails setting up serving counters, replenishing food supplies, and maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards in all work and dining areas.
In addition to hands-on food preparation, the School Cook II manages inventory and food supplies by documenting temperature checks, storing provisions properly, and completing monthly inventory tasks. The role includes supervision responsibilities, such as directing cafeteria helpers, training new employees, and overseeing serving operations at satellite schools. Continuous professional development is encouraged through participation in staff meetings, workshops, and USDA-mandated annual training.
With an educational requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent, candidates must demonstrate experience in quantity cooking, food safety, and kitchen operations typically acquired through work in a school, hospital, restaurant, or institutional kitchen environment. Substitutions for experience with relevant coursework or degrees in food service or culinary arts are also recognized. The position requires knowledge of food preparation procedures, kitchen equipment handling, and adherence to sanitation practices to ensure safety and quality in food services.
This role offers the opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to enriching student lives through healthy meals, with potential temporary to permanent employment status. The Hawaii State Department of Education is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, providing a supportive work environment where employees can thrive while contributing meaningfully to public education.
- Graduation from high school or equivalent
- Experience in quantity cooking in a restaurant, school, hospital or institution
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation
- Ability to follow standardized recipes
- Physical ability to perform cooking tasks
- Willingness to participate in ongoing training
- Ability to supervise helpers and manage inventory