Early Head Start Cook

Child Care Resources Inc; Tennessee; On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Job summary

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program is seeking a Cook to prepare nutritious meals and support daily food service in the center's central kitchen.

You will ensure CACFP guidelines, maintain inventory within budget, and collaborate with nutrition staff to support children's growth and wellness. This on-site role emphasizes food safety, record-keeping, and engaging with families to promote healthy eating.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in food service and/or childcare preferred.
• Must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license and pass pre-employment physical/screening.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches and snacks on time.
• Order, receive, inspect, and store food and supplies within budget.
• Prepare meals compliant with CACFP guidelines and approved menus.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen meeting health standards.
• Complete records including food purchases, inventory, meals, and production reports.
• Transport food between Head Start and Early Head Start locations; maintain equipment and supplies.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and sanitize dishes and surfaces daily.
• Assist with infant feeding preparation and bottle sanitation.
• Collaborate with Nutrition Coordinator and staff to support children’s nutrition and wellness.
• Support events, family engagement, and nutrition education activities.

Skills

Food service

Driver's license

First Aid/CPR

Inventory management

Nutrition knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Join our Early Head Start team as a Cook and make a difference every day! Under the guidance of the Nutrition Coordinator, you'll prepare nutritious meals, support daily food service operations, and help ensure compliance with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards. Based in the Early Head Start center's central kitchen, you'll play a vital role in creating healthy, welcoming mealtime experiences for young children.

What You'll Do

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks while ensuring meals are ready on time.
• Order, receive, inspect, and properly store food and supplies, maintaining accurate inventory and staying within budget.
• Prepare meals that are nutritious, appealing, and compliant with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines and approved menus.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen that meets all health, safety, and licensing standards.
• Complete required records, including food purchases, inventory, meal counts, and production reports.
• Transport food between Head Start and Early Head Start locations and maintain food service equipment and supplies.
• Operate standard and commercial kitchen equipment safely, including dishwashing and sanitation equipment.
• Clean and sanitize dishes, cookware, bottles, feeding supplies, and kitchen work areas daily.
• Assist with infant feeding preparation, including bottle and formula sanitation, preparation, and storage.
• Collaborate with the Nutrition Coordinator, Food Services Manager, teachers, and family service staff to support children's nutrition and wellness.
• Assist with special events, family engagement activities, and nutrition education opportunities.
• Support children and families with diverse needs in a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
• Purchase and transport groceries and supplies, including lifting and carrying food items as needed.
• Participate in trainings, follow agency policies and safety procedures, and complete additional duties as assigned.
• Foster family engagement by encouraging parent participation and supporting community partnerships that strengthen the Early Head Start program.

Requirements

Education Requirements: Minimum of High school diploma or GED required.

Experience Requirements: Experience in food service and/or childcare preferred.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license, available transportation for work-related duties, and proof of liability insurance. Mileage will be reimbursed when using a personal vehicle.
• Must obtain pre-employment physical and screen for communicable diseases.
• Must obtain First Aid and CPR and keep updated.
• Demonstrate a willingness to continue professional development.
• A demonstrated ability in using planned menus to prepare food which is nourishing, appetizing, and appealing to children and an understanding of vital role nutrition plays in a child’s development is essential.
• A natural concern for and enjoyment of Head Start children and their families; the ability to keep simple records necessary to assure financial accountability in the food service program; and willingness to assist in maintaining proper sanitation, health standards, and safety practices in food preparation and service required.
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance

About Us

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN: Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.

Our employees have access to:

• Up to 14 paid holidays per year
• Sick leave and Personal time
• Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan
• Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System
• Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.

Minimum Education : High School or Equivalent