Childcare Kitchen & Meal Service Aide

Start Early; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 31,700 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Plans

401k Contribution

Paid Volunteer Days

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Start Early in Chicago seeks a dedicated food service professional to support Educare Chicago’s meal program. You will ensure meals and milk supply, monitor food temperatures, and uphold safety standards across licensing bodies.

The role emphasizes teamwork, confidentiality, and adherence to district and state guidelines. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, a City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate, and at least one year of food service experience.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• The City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required.
• One year of experience in a food service environment is preferred.
• Ability to track and monitor food information.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff and parents.
• Able to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with Illinois food and sanitation requirements and licensing standards.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusive practice.

Responsibilities

• Check and verify catered meals and milk quantity daily to ensure supply.
• Record food temperatures to ensure food safety compliance.
• Report temperature discrepancies or unsafe conditions to a supervisor.
• Follow required hygiene rules and maintain cleanliness in food prep areas.
• Ensure compliance with USDA, City of Chicago, and State licensing standards.
• Manage inventory and orders for food service supplies; store food properly.
• Adhere to federal, state, and local regulations and Start Early’s standards.
• Follow DCFS licensing standards for childcare centers.

Skills

Communication

Team player

Verbal & written skills

Ability to track food information

Education

High School Diploma or GED

City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate

Tools

Food safety principles

Job description

Start Early in Chicago seeks a dedicated food service professional to support Educare Chicago’s meal program. You will ensure meals and milk supply, monitor food temperatures, and uphold safety standards across licensing bodies.

The role emphasizes teamwork, confidentiality, and adherence to district and state guidelines. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, a City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate, and at least one year of food service experience.