Early Childhood Center Chef

Lilac City Early Learning Center; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible paid time off

Paid holidays

Full benefits package (medical, dental

Job summary

The Lilac City Early Learning Center is seeking a dependable and caring chef to support the health and nutrition of children aged infant through Pre-K in Spokane, WA. This full-time role runs Monday–Friday, 7:00am–3:30pm, with a 30-minute lunch, serving about 60–70 children and ensuring CACFP compliance.

Responsibilities include planning CACFP-aligned menus, accurate meal counts, and maintaining records, plus purchasing groceries and maintaining a safe, sanitary kitchen.

Qualifications

• Experience in kitchens serving children or CACFP settings is preferred.
• Ability to plan meals per CACFP and USDA guidelines.
• Proven record of accurate recordkeeping and compliance with regulations.
• Washington State Food Worker Card and related background checks required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks per CACFP requirements.
• Plan menus meeting USDA/CACFP guidelines, portion sizes and age needs.
• Maintain daily meal counts and CACFP documentation.
• Complete CACFP records: production, menus, receipts, and records.
• Purchase groceries using company card; track receipts and maintain records.
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and sanitation per licensing rules.
• Keep kitchen clean, safe, and organized; handle dishwashing and sanitation.
• Accommodate allergies and special diets per CACFP and licensing rules.
• Communicate with Director about menus and CACFP compliance concerns.
• Support CACFP reviews, audits, and monitoring visits.
• Interact positively with children and staff; maintain welcoming environment.
• Lift and move groceries and supplies as needed.

Skills

Teamwork

Organization

Meal planning for large groups

Reliable transportation

Job description

The Lilac City Early Learning Center team is excited to add to our team! We are looking for a dependable, organized, and caring chef to support the health and nutrition of the children in our care.

This is a full-time position, Monday–Friday, 7:00am–3:30pm (with a 30-minute lunch break), serving approximately 60–70 children ages infant through Pre-K. We participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and this role is essential in ensuring compliance and high-quality meal service.

We offer above average wages, flexible paid time off, paid holidays, a full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, retirement and more!), and a supportive team environment.

Job duties include.

• Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack in accordance with CACFP meal pattern requirements
• Plan menus that meet USDA/CACFP guidelines, including portion sizes, meal components, and age-appropriate nutrition
• Maintain accurate daily meal counts and attendance records for CACFP documentation
• Complete and maintain all required CACFP records including production records, menus, receipts, and supporting documentation
• Purchase groceries using a company card, track receipts, and maintain organized records for compliance and audit purposes
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and sanitation in accordance with Washington State licensing and health department requirements
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment, including dishwashing and sanitizing surfaces
• Monitor and accommodate food allergies, special diets, and infant feeding requirements in compliance with CACFP and licensing regulations
• Communicate regularly with the Director regarding menus, food program requirements, and any concerns related to CACFP compliance
• Be available to support CACFP reviews, audits, and monitoring visits
• Interact positively with children and staff, supporting a welcoming and inclusive program environment
• Lift and transport groceries and kitchen supplies as needed

Qualifications.

• Must enjoy working in a child-centered environment and be able to collaborate with a team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, especially related to recordkeeping and compliance
• Ability to plan and prepare meals for large groups
• Must have reliable transportation and we prefer use of a personal vehicle for grocery shopping but can discuss other options
• Must maintain valid auto insurance
• Mileage for shopping will be reimbursed monthly at the current IRS rate
• Ability to lift and carry food items and supplies

All applicants must have, or be willing to obtain upon hire.

• Washington State Food Worker Card
• DCYF Background Check
• Negative TB Test (within past 12 months)
• Proof of MMR Vaccination or Medical Exemption
• Bloodborne Pathogens training

Compensation.

• $20.00 – $25.00 per hour, depending on experience. Additional compensation may be considered for candidates with strong CACFP knowledge and administrative kitchen experience.