Early Childhood Education (ECE) Chef at Learning Jungle Morse

Landed; California; On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and benefits

Part-time and full-time roles

Job summary

Learning Jungle is hiring an ECE Chef for the West Region to plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals for children aged 0–5 in a licensed California childcare setting. The role emphasizes safety, menu planning, and collaboration with center staff to meet regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, culinary or nutrition coursework, and California ECE units or progress toward them.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary program or nutrition/safety coursework preferred.
• Completion of California ECE assistant teacher qualifications (6 sem units) or enrollment to complete them after hire.
• Experience as a chef or cook in childcare or institutional settings is preferred.
• Must meet California licensing requirements for staff in childcare centers and hold a Food Safety Manager Certification or obtain upon hire.
• Must hold or obtain a California Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire.
• Knowledge of CACFP/USDA guidelines and ability to follow health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Meal planning and preparation of nutritious, age-appropriate meals.
• Ensure meals meet USDA and California licensing guidelines for 0–5 year olds.
• Develop weekly menus with allergy accommodations and dietary restrictions.
• Maintain food safety, sanitation, and proper storage practices.
• Manage inventory, orders, and kitchen budget within guidelines.
• Collaborate with center leadership and staff to align meals with daily routines.
• Complete required documentation for food production and safety compliance.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Nutrition planning

Team collaboration

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Culinary program completion preferred

ECE Units: California assistant teacher qualifications (6 sem/2 qtr units)

Job description

ECE Chef (West Region)

Ignite Curiosity. Grow Potential.

At Learning Jungle, we believe in the power of early education to transform lives and communities. As a global provider of high-quality educational childcare, we are committed to enriching young minds through play-based learning that is Reggio-inspired and rooted in the Creative Curriculum. Our mission is to inspire children to be creative, mindful, and influential members of the world they live in.

We are currently seeking a skilled and passionate Early Childhood Education (ECE) Chef to join our team and provide nutritious, balanced meals to support the growth and development of young children in alignment with California requirements. In this role, you will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving meals for children aged 0–5 in a safe and hygienic manner, adhering to all licensing and nutritional guidelines.

Reports To: Center Director

Key Responsibilities:

• Meal Planning & Preparation: Plan and prepare nutritious, age-appropriate meals that support the health and well-being of young children. Ensure that meals meet USDA, California Department of Social Services/Community Care Licensing, and other regulatory guidelines for early childhood education centers.
• Food Safety & Sanitation: Follow strict food safety and sanitation protocols to ensure the kitchen, food storage, and meal preparation areas are clean and safe. Maintain proper food handling practices and ensure compliance with health codes.
• Menu Planning: Develop weekly menus that include a variety of healthy foods, ensuring that all meals are balanced, meet dietary restrictions, and cater to children with allergies or special dietary needs.
• Nutritional Guidelines: Ensure that meals meet nutritional standards set by the California Department of Social Services/Community Care Licensing and other relevant bodies.
• Inventory Management: Maintain inventory of food supplies, order ingredients, and ensure the kitchen is stocked with necessary items. Keep track of food expiration dates and ensure that the kitchen operates within budgetary guidelines.
• Collaboration: Work with center leadership and teaching staff to ensure meals are served on time and in a manner that aligns with the center’s daily routine. Collaborate with staff to accommodate special events or family meals.
• Compliance & Documentation: Maintain records of food production, meal counts, and compliance with health and safety regulations. Complete all necessary paperwork related to food safety, allergies, and meal planning.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Completion of a culinary program, or coursework in nutrition, food safety, or a related field is preferred.
• Early Childhood Education Units: Must meet California assistant teacher qualifications, including completion of at least 6 semester units (or equivalent quarter units) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development from an accredited college, or enrollment in and completion of at least 2 units per semester after hire until 6 units are completed.
• Experience: Prior experience as a chef or cook in an institutional or childcare setting is preferred. Experience working in a licensed childcare center or preparing meals for young children is a plus.
• Licensing: Must meet California Department of Social Services/Community Care Licensing requirements for staff in childcare centers, including completion of a Food Safety Manager Certification (or the ability to obtain certification upon hire).
• Food Handler Card: Must hold a valid California Food Handler Card, or obtain one within 30 days of hire.
• Health & Safety: Must pass a health screening, including a tuberculosis test, and provide proof of immunization against influenza, tdap, and MMR as required for California childcare staff.
• Background Clearance: Must complete Live Scan fingerprinting and clear the Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check prior to employment.
• Mandated Reporter Training: Must complete California mandated reporter training upon hire.
• Certifications: Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain within 30 days of employment.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and perform tasks that involve bending, lifting, and food preparation.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of food safety regulations, nutrition for young children, and appropriate meal planning and preparation for the 0–5 age group. Familiarity with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) meal patterns and documentation.
• Allergy Awareness: Knowledge of allergen management, cross-contact prevention, and reading food labels for the major food allergens.

Why Join Learning Jungle?

• A welcoming, inclusive team environment focused on growth and creativity
• Opportunities for continued education, career development, and permit advancement
• Competitive pay and benefits for part-time and full-time roles
• Meaningful work that supports young children during their most important years of development

Are you ready to lead with purpose and inspire a love of learning?

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the position.

Learning Jungle is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

Learning Jungle is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR Department at [e-mail].