Head Cook - Lead Kitchen & CACFP Meals (Part-Time)

Ymcatc; Winters (CA); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

YMCA Early Childhood Impact in Winters, CA is seeking a Head Cook to supervise the central kitchen team and oversee daily meal preparation for the Head Start program. The role emphasizes CACFP-aligned menus, safety, and regulatory compliance, with emphasis on serving diverse families in a high-volume environment.

The position requires leadership, extensive cooking experience, and the ability to manage records, inventory, and communications with program staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Five (5) years of cooking experience, preferably in high-volume food service.
• Three (3) years of supervisory experience required.
• Two (2) years of experience in early childhood settings preferred.
• Experience working with children and families from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English; bilingual or multilingual skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise Assistant Cook and Nutrition Assistants to ensure effective daily operations.
• Plan and prepare meals according to the daily menu using standardized recipes and CACFP guidelines; document any menu substitutions as required.
• Prepare and package meals for transport to program sites, ensuring proper food safety, temperature control, and sanitation procedures.
• Maintain required records in compliance with California Department of Social Services and CACFP regulations, including documentation of meal accommodations for medical or dietary needs.
• Order food and non-food supplies necessary to implement approved menus.
• Maintain inventory using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures and complete required logs.
• Receive and verify vendor deliveries following established receiving procedures.
• Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and safe operation of the central kitchen and food service equipment.
• Record and maintain accurate refrigerator and freezer temperature logs twice daily.
• Clean and maintain kitchen and refrigeration areas, including proper recycling practices when applicable.
• Attend staff meetings and required trainings or professional development sessions.
• Communicate timely and effectively with supervisors regarding operational concerns or issues.
• Provide feedback on menus and program operations to support continuous improvement.
• Foster respectful, positive, and welcoming interactions with children, families, and staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

YMCA Early Childhood Impact in Winters, CA is seeking a Head Cook to supervise the central kitchen team and oversee daily meal preparation for the Head Start program. The role emphasizes CACFP-aligned menus, safety, and regulatory compliance, with emphasis on serving diverse families in a high-volume environment.

The position requires leadership, extensive cooking experience, and the ability to manage records, inventory, and communications with program staff.