Cook/Custodian

Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation; Arnold (MO); On-site; USD 18,082 - 25,753; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time

403(b) salary deferral program with employer match

Job summary

Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation is seeking a dedicated Cook/Custodian to prepare meals for Head Start children and maintain cleanliness in the facility. This position requires adherence to health standards and coordination with staff.

The ideal candidate will hold a high school diploma and be physically capable of fulfilling job duties. Benefits include medical insurance, paid holidays, and a 403(b) plan.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must submit to criminal background screening.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve meals following Head Start menus.
• Maintain sanitary kitchen and dining areas.
• Handle custodial duties like stocking supplies and cleaning.

Skills

Food preparation

Sanitation compliance

Communication skills

Time management

Education

High School Diploma, GED, or HiSET

Certifications in ServSafe

Tools

Kitchen equipment

Job description

Job Summary

The Cook/Custodian is responsible for buying, storing, preparing, cooking, and serving meals to Head Start children. The Cook coordinates with center staff on activities and supervises kitchen volunteers, while also handling general cleaning of classrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen used by JFCAC children, staff, and families.

Main Responsibilities

• Cook Duties:
  • Prepare and serve nutritious and economical meals according to the planned menu, presenting them in an attractive “family‑style” service.
  • Follow printed Head Start menus unless an emergency requires a substitute menu.
  • Ensure any approved menu changes (due to food availability) are authorized by the Family Health Coordinator and documented.
  • Comply with sanitation guidelines from the Missouri Health Department; keep all kitchen areas, appliances, utensils, dishes, and serving surfaces sanitary and orderly.
  • Complete daily cleaning checklists and file them.
  • Clean dining tables, chairs, and floor before and after each meal, with assistance from other staff as needed.
  • Attend meetings, in‑service training, and other required sessions.
  • Maintain food service equipment, reporting any issues to the Team Supervisor.
  • Keep records of food purchases, expenditures, and sanitation checklists.
  • Address special diet needs in cooperation with the Health Coordinator.
  • Maintain knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and comply with them.
  • Follow CACFP regulations for food preparation, storage, and disposal.
  • Prepare grocery lists based on the menu and dietary restrictions.
  • Travel to grocery stores to purchase listed items.
• Custodian Duties:
  • Remove and dispose of trash from restrooms, kitchen, and classrooms.
  • Sanitize bathroom floors, sinks, and toilets.
  • Stock paper towels, toilet paper, and hand soap.
  • Sweep and mop all floors daily.

Required Qualifications & Capabilities

• High School Diploma, GED, or HiSET (education verified before hire)
• Physically able to stand for long periods, stoop, squat, and lift up to 50 lbs
• Proficient with internet, email, and calendar applications
• Must submit to criminal background screening
• Certificate in ServSafe or obtain within 60 days of employment (required)
• Valid driver’s license
• Reliable transportation (must travel to/from grocery store and meetings/trainings in Jefferson and/or Franklin County)

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Experience preparing and serving food for large groups
• Experience working with low‑income families, childcare, health, and/or early education settings

Compensation & Benefits

• On‑site position – not remote
• Starting pay $15.91 per hour (based on education & experience), bi‑weekly pay
• Full‑time, 36‑hour workweek, benefits‑eligible
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with agency contribution
• Agency‑paid life insurance
• Supplemental life, accident, critical illness, and pet insurance
• 403(b) salary deferral program with employer match
• Simplified Employee Pension Plan – vested at 3 years