Early Childhood Centre Cook

canopy Community Limited; Ipswich City; Hybrid; AUD 30,000 - 39,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Worker Retention Grant

Job summary

canopy Karalee is seeking a passionate Cook to join our centre, providing nutritious meals for up to 99 children from 6:15am to 6:15pm. You will prepare meals across the day, focusing on safety, nutrition and high quality food experiences.

The role is part-time (2 days per week with potential for extra shifts). You’ll work with educators and other staff to plan menus that reflect cultural diversity and dietary requirements.

Qualifications

• Must have National Child Safety Training.
• Food Safety Certificate (I’m Alert training).
• Current Working with Children Check (Blue Card).
• Experience in menu planning, budgeting, and stock management.
• Knowledge of dietary requirements and allergy-safe practices.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards.
• Excellent communication skills and a team-focused attitude.
• Availability for 2 days per week (with potential for extra shifts).

Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals aligned with dietary guidelines.
• Plan menus that reflect children’s cultural diversity.
• Manage food budgeting, ordering, and stock control.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen.
• Cater for allergies and dietary requirements.
• Work collaboratively with educators and the wider team.

Skills

Menu planning

Budgeting

Stock management

Food safety awareness

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Food Safety Certificate

Working with Children Check (Blue Card)

National Child Safety Training

Job description

Join a centre that truly values community, nutrition, and teamwork!

At canopy Early Education Karalee, we’re proud to provide a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive. With over 30 years of experience as a trusted childcare provider, we are part of a strong not-for-profit organisation deeply connected to Queensland communities and charities.

We’re now looking for a passionate and dedicated Cook who loves creating nutritious meals and meaningful food experiences for children to join our supportive and values-driven team.

About the Role

We are seeking a part-time cook (5 days per week) to support our thriving centre, which caters for up to 99 children and operates from 6:15am-6:15pm.

You’ll be responsible for preparing meals across the day-from breakfast to late snacks-while ensuring the highest standards of nutrition, safety, and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare healthy, nutritious meals aligned with dietary guidelines
• Plan menus that reflect children’s cultural diversity
• Manage food budgeting, ordering, and stock control
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen
• Cater for allergies and dietary requirements
• Work collaboratively with educators and the wider team

About You

To succeed in this role, you will have:

• National Child Safety Training
• Food Safety Certificate (I’m Alert training)
• Current Working with Children Check (Blue Card)
• Experience in menu planning, budgeting, and stock management
• Knowledge of dietary requirements and allergy-safe practices
• Strong understanding of food safety standards
• Excellent communication skills and a team-focused attitude
• Availability for 2 days per week (with potential for extra shifts)

Why join canopy Early Education?

At canopy Karalee, we believe food is fundamental to children’s wellbeing and development. When you join us, you’ll be part of a team that values your contribution and supports your growth.

What we offer:

• Eligibility for the Worker Retention Grant
• Supportive, inclusive, and welcoming team culture

Our Commitment

We are a proud child-safe organisation, committed to creating a culture that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of children in everything we do-through our practices, governance, and community partnerships.

We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you to our team!

Learn more: http://www.canopyearlyeducation.com.au
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