Cook/Centre Support

Kaizen Lab Inc.; Halifax; On-site; CAD 25,003 - 35,610; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Complimentary YMCA membership

Three weeks of vacation entitlement

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid wellness days

Job summary

Kaizen Lab Inc. is hiring a Cook for the Lake Charlotte YMCA Early Learning Childcare Centre in Halifax. The position is full-time, with a compensation of $22.12/hour. Responsibilities include preparing meals according to Canada’s Food Guide, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting childcare programming.

Applicants must have a valid Food Handler Certification and should complete necessary orientation within six months. The role offers complimentary YMCA membership, vacation entitlement, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Valid Food Handler Certification required.
• Completion of Orientation for Certificate within six months.
• Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Checks for candidates aged 18+.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks according to regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness in preparation and dining areas.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and childcare regulations.

Skills

Food Handler Certification

Valid First Aid and CPR Certification

Experience in food preparation

Education

Early Childhood Education (ECE) Classification Level 1, 2, or 3

Job description

Location: Lake Charlotte YMCA Early Learning Childcare Centre
Program: Licensed Childcare
Position Status: Full Time
Compensation: $22.12/hour

Reporting to the Director of the Lake Charlotte YMCA Early Learning Childcare Centre, the Cook/Centre Support is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks according to Canada’s Food Guide and the Nova Scotia Early Learning and Child Care Regulations, as well as general cleaning duties and providing daily support within ratio‑based programming.

Compensation and Benefits

• Complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities
• Access to YMCA at Home fitness programs
• Three (3) weeks of vacation entitlement and paid wellness days
• Comprehensive benefits package and pension plan (once the Centre is open)
• Complimentary wellbeing and counselling services

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Kitchen Operations

• Maintain clean, organized, and clutter‑free storage and workspaces in all designated areas.
• Prepare and serve meals in accordance with approved menus and budgets while ensuring quality, variety, and nutritional value.
• Conduct weekly meal preparation every Monday to support meal service throughout the remainder of the week.
• Safely prepare and serve whole fruits and vegetables using appropriate tools and equipment.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in food preparation, storage, and service.
• Present food in a communal style (e.g., self‑serve platters), ensuring appropriate portions and appealing presentation.
• Adhere to allergy management protocols by following posted allergy lists and preventing cross‑contamination.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including menus, temperature logs, allergy records, cleaning schedules, and meal/snack modifications.
• Ensure food carts are cleaned and sanitized and deliver meals to classrooms as required.
• Conduct regular inventory checks of dining supplies, including utensils, dishware, and serving equipment.
• Comply with all Nova Scotia Health Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Division requirements and childcare licensing regulations.

Facility Maintenance & Cleaning

• Perform general cleaning duties, including garbage removal, mopping, hallway tidying, washroom maintenance, and restocking supplies.
• Ensure the safe storage and handling of cleaning chemicals and supplies.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment throughout the centre.

Program & Team Support

• Promote a welcoming, inclusive, equitable, and respectful environment for all children, families, and staff.
• Adhere to YMCA policies, procedures, best practices, and child safeguarding standards.
• Participate in monthly staff meetings and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Provide daily support within ratio‑based programming.
• Engage in learning opportunities related to child development, YMCA Playing to Learn curriculum, and relationship‑building practices.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director.

Education & Skills Qualifications

Required

• Valid Food Handler Certification.
• Completion of the Orientation for Certificate (Working in Licensed Child Care) within six (6) months of hire.

Assets

• Early Childhood Education (ECE) Classification Level 1, 2, or 3.

Additional Candidate Requirements

• Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (issued within the past six months), if 18 years of age or older.
• Attendance at Child Safeguarding Training upon hire.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.

Background checks are reviewed on an individual basis. Any offenses will be assessed in relation to the position and child safeguarding requirements and may not automatically disqualify candidates from employment with the YMCA.

At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour; racially diverse individuals; 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals; gender‑diverse people; people with disabilities; members of ethnic minority and faith communities; newcomers to Canada; and veterans. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please inform us in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.