Cook Helper

Elk River Independent School District 728; Elk River (MN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Elk River Independent School District 728 is seeking a temporary Cook Helper at Rogers Middle School to assist the Head Cook in preparing and serving nutritious lunches while maintaining a sanitary kitchen. This 6-hour position runs from 7:15am to 1:45pm, approximately 09/25/26 through 12/17/26.

Starting wage is $23.37 per hour, and the role includes following recipes, portioning meals, cleaning work areas, and supporting inventory and catering needs as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Knowledge of food service operations and sanitation.
• Certification in food service operations as listed.
• Experience with standardized recipes and quantity cooking.
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds and work well with others.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Cook in preparing main dishes to ensure timely availability.
• Prepare all foods to meet nutritional and timing goals.
• Serve lunches in proper portions and on schedule.
• Clean counters, equipment, stove and lunchroom areas.
• Assist with monthly inventory to keep records up to date.
• May assist in catering and additional hours as needed.

Skills

Food service knowledge

Measuring & math

Teamwork

Communication

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or GED

Fundamental of Food Service Operation

Level I Food Service Certification (SNA)

1–3 years institutional cook experience

Job description

Cook Helper (TEMPORARY 6.Hours Per Day; 7:15am-1:45pm. Approx 09/25/26 through 12/17/26) JobID: 19285

• Position Type: Food Service/ Cook Helper
• Date Posted: 9/2/2026
• Location: Rogers Middle School
• Date Available: 09/25/2026
• Closing Date: 09/08/2026

Starting Wage: $23.37/hour

The First Cook assists the Head Cook in pre paring and serving nutritious school lunches and maintaining a safe and sanitary kitchen and lunchroom area.

Job Summary:

• 1. May assist the Head Cook in the preparation of the main dish so that food is available when needed and is properly prepared.
• 2. Assists in the preparation of all foods as needed so that food is properly prepared and available in a timely and nutritious manner.
• 3. Serves school lunches in a timely fashion and in proper proportions.
• 4. Cleans counter, kitchen equipment, stove, utensils, and other kitchen and lunchroom equipment so that it is available for use the next day.
• 5. May assist the Head Cook in monthly inventory so that inventory and records are up to date to facilitate efficient kitchen operation.
• 6. May assist in shelving groceries upon delivery.
• 7. Other job related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• 1. High school degree, GED, or equivalent experience.
• 2. Demonstrated knowledge of food service, care and use of kitchen equipment and appliances, and proper sanitation.
• 3. Successful completion of Fundamental of Food Service Operation and Level I Food Service Certification from the School Nutrition Association.
• 4. Demonstrated experience in the use of standardized recipes and quantity food preparation.
• 5. Demonstrated knowledge in the use of meal evaluation for daily menus.
• 6. Ability to work with others.
• 7. Demonstrated skills in written and oral communication.
• 8. Ability to maintain good public relations with staff and students.
• 9. Good math skills for measuring.
• 10. Regularly able to lift heavy objects in excess of fifty (50) pounds.
• 11. No allergies to kitchen/cleaning chemicals.
• 12. May be asked to work caterings and extra hours if necessary.
• 13. One (1) to three (3) years experience as an institutional cook or in quantity cooking.

Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.

Equity is one of ISD728's core values and is essential to our goal of putting children first to ensure college and career readiness. A diverse workforce fuels innovation and allows us to better understand, communicate with, and educate our students. ISD728 will not deny anyone the opportunity for training or employment because of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital status, age, sexual preference, disability, or status with regard to public assistance.