Cook - Early Learning School

Children's Lighthouse of Mt. Juliet; Mount Juliet (TN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Employee discounts

Paid time off

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Job summary

Children's Lighthouse of Mt. Juliet is seeking a devoted Cook to prepare healthy meals for our young learners. You will ensure meals align with age considerations, safety, and classroom schedules, while maintaining a clean kitchen and supporting our childcare program.

Ideal candidates possess food service experience, familiarity with CACFP guidelines, and a valid Food Handler's Certification, with the passion to foster children's well-being.

Qualifications

• Experience in food service, institutional cooking, or school nutrition preferred.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and proper sanitation practices.
• Ability to obtain or maintain a valid Food Handler's Certification.
• Familiarity with CACFP guidelines is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks for children daily.
• Follow meal pattern requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment at all times.
• Monitor food inventory and assist with ordering supplies as needed.
• Adhere to proper food storage, handling, and safety procedures.
• Accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies for enrolled children.
• Coordinate meal timing with classroom schedules to ensure timely service.

Skills

Food service experience

Food safety knowledge

CACFP knowledge

Food handler certification

Time management

Independence

Passion for children

Education

Food Handler's Certification

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discounts
• Paid time off
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

About the Role:

Children's Lighthouse of Mt. Juliet is looking for a passionate and dedicated Cook to join our early learning school team! In this role, you'll play a vital part in nourishing young minds by preparing healthy, delicious meals for our little learners every day. If you love cooking and have a heart for children, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks for children daily
• Follow meal pattern requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment at all times
• Monitor food inventory and assist with ordering supplies as needed
• Adhere to proper food storage, handling, and safety procedures
• Accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies for enrolled children
• Coordinate meal timing with classroom schedules to ensure timely service

Requirements:

• Previous experience in food service, institutional cooking, or school nutrition preferred
• Knowledge of food safety standards and proper sanitation practices
• Ability to obtain or maintain a valid Food Handler's Certification
• Familiarity with CACFP guidelines is a plus
• Ability to manage time effectively and work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Warm, caring demeanor with a genuine passion for supporting children's well-being
• Must pass required background checks per childcare licensing regulations

About Us:

Children's Lighthouse of Mt. Juliet is a trusted early learning school dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children in the Mt. Juliet, TN community. Families love us for our commitment to whole-child development, blending academic readiness with social and emotional growth. Our team members enjoy a supportive workplace culture where every role — including yours in the kitchen — makes a meaningful difference in a child's life.