Cook

Building Blocks Learning Center; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Building Blocks Learning Center is seeking a reliable Center Cook/Facility Person to manage daily meals and snacks while also assisting with building upkeep. The role combines culinary duties with light maintenance to support a healthy, safe environment for children and staff.

The successful candidate will follow nutrition guidelines, ensure sanitary food prep areas, manage supplies, and collaborate with the Center Director and teachers to meet schedules and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Experience preparing meals in a school, daycare, or similar setting preferred.
• Ability to follow nutrition guidelines and dietary restrictions.
• Strong cleanliness and food handling discipline.
• Ability to multitask and manage time in a busy kitchen and facility.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks per menu and dietary needs.
• Maintain sanitary kitchen areas and follow food safety procedures.
• Monitor inventory and order supplies within budget.
• Coordinate meal service with classroom schedules.
• Communicate with parents and staff about allergies or dietary concerns.
• Complete daily cleaning of kitchen equipment and work areas.

Skills

Meal prep

Food safety

Inventory management

Communication

Teamwork

Light maintenance

Job description

Building Blocks Learning Center (The Children's Center) is seeking a reliable, organized, and dedicated Center Cook/Facility Person to support the daily operations of our early childhood center. This dual-role position is responsible for preparing nutritious meals and snacks for the children while also assisting in maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and general upkeep of the facility. The ideal candidate will have experience in food preparation, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating a healthy and safe environment for the children and staff.

Cook Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve nutritious, well-balanced meals and snacks in accordance with the center’s menu, child nutrition guidelines, and any dietary restrictions.
• Ensure safe and sanitary food preparation areas and follow proper food handling procedures.
• Maintain accurate inventory of kitchen supplies and order food items as needed, staying within budget.
• Adhere to health department standards and regulations, including proper food storage, cooking temperatures, and cleanliness protocols.
• Coordinate meal service times with classroom schedules to ensure timely and efficient delivery of meals.
• Communicate with parents and staff about any allergies or dietary concerns for individual children.
• Complete daily cleaning tasks of kitchen equipment, utensils, and work areas, ensuring all items are properly sanitized.

Facility Person Responsibilities:

• Assist with the daily cleaning and upkeep of the facility, including classrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
• Perform light maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs, minor repairs, and keeping the exterior of the building clean and orderly.
• Monitor the safety of the facility by conducting regular checks of playgrounds, classrooms, and entryways to ensure they are clean, organized, and safe for children and staff.
• Work closely with the Center Director to address facility needs, reporting any major maintenance issues that require professional repair.
• Assist with setting up rooms for special events or activities and ensure that spaces are ready for daily use.
• Manage waste disposal and recycling efforts, keeping the facility environmentally friendly.
• Follow safety protocols, ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations, including the proper use of cleaning chemicals and equipment.

Experience:

• Previous experience in food preparation in a school, daycare, or similar setting preferred.
• Experience in building maintenance or custodial work is a plus.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to prepare meals that are nutritious, appealing, and meet dietary restrictions.
• Strong attention to cleanliness, food safety, and facility maintenance.
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively to meet meal schedules and facility needs.
• Good communication skills, with the ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to lift and carry supplies, clean equipment, and perform light maintenance tasks.

This position is an essential part of ensuring the smooth daily operation of our center, helping to create a clean, safe, and healthy environment for our children and staff.