Childcare Cook

The Learning Experience - Newington; Newington (CT); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

401(k)

Dental insurance

Job summary

The Learning Experience - Newington is seeking a Cook / Classroom Support Team Member to prepare nutritious meals for children and assist teachers in a busy center. This role combines food preparation with direct engagement in classroom activities to support daily routines.

Ideal candidates have 1+ year of cooking experience, a high school diploma, and a willingness to obtain a food handler's certificate within 90 days. The job supports teamwork and a positive center environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year of experience in food preparation and cooking.
• Experience working with young children preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and cook healthy meals for children meeting nutritional requirements.
• Maintain and track food allergies for each child and communicate with teachers daily.
• Follow proper food safety, handling, sanitation, and storage procedures.
• Place weekly food and supply orders to ensure adequate inventory.
• Receive, unpack, organize, and store food deliveries and kitchen supplies.
• Monitor inventory, expiration dates, and maintain records.

Skills

Food preparation

Classroom teamwork

Communication

Multitasking

Food safety

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance

Salary: $17.50 - $18.50 per hour

Are you passionate about working with children?

The Learning Experience seeks a dedicated and enthusiastic Cook / Classroom Support Team Member

As a Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by preparing nutritious meals each day while also supporting our teaching team throughout the center. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys both food preparation and working directly with children in a fast-paced childcare environment.

You will:

• Plan, prepare, and cook healthy and delicious meals for children that meet proper nutritional requirements.
• Maintain and track food allergies for each child in our center, ensuring their safety, and communicate allergy information to teachers daily with every food delivery.
• Follow proper food safety, handling, sanitation, and storage procedures in accordance with licensing requirements.
• Place weekly food and supply orders to ensure adequate inventory for meals, snacks, and classroom needs.
• Receive, unpack, organize, and properly store food deliveries and kitchen supplies, following all food safety regulations.
• Monitor inventory levels, track expiration dates, and maintain accurate inventory records as required by local and state agencies.
• Collaborate with the Center Leadership team to manage food costs, purchase necessary supplies, and maintain an organized kitchen.
• Deliver meals and snacks to classrooms while maintaining a positive and professional attitude with children, families, and staff.
• Assist teachers in classrooms as needed, including supervising children, engaging in activities, and supporting daily routines.
• Provide classroom coverage during staff breaks, lunches, meetings, and other scheduling needs.
• Support center operations with cleaning, organizing, laundry, and other duties to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and team members through effective communication and teamwork.
• Remain flexible and adaptable to the daily needs of a busy childcare center.

If you have:

• A High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year of experience in food preparation and cooking.
• Experience working with young children preferred, but not required.
• A food handler's certificate or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire.
• The ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.
• Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
• A positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a collaborative team.

Why Join The Learning Experience?

At The Learning Experience, we make early education and childcare joyful, engaging, and fun so children are happy to learn, play, and grow. We believe our employees are the heart of our center, and we're looking for team members who share our passion for helping children thrive.