Head Start Cook: Lead Kitchen Operations

Save the Children US; Jennings (LA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Dental coverage

Job summary

Save the Children is seeking a Head Start Cook to support nutrition services for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. You will plan and prepare meals, follow USDA CACFP standards, manage inventories, and coordinate with center staff to ensure safe, appealing meals.

The role requires a high school diploma and several years of kitchen experience, strong English communication, and a commitment to teamwork, safety, and confidentiality in serving children and families.

Qualifications

• High school diploma plus at least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children and to work well with staff, parents and families.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Proven teamwork orientation and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of basics of working with preschool children and infants/toddlers.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food and assist in any food related activities as directed and menus as approved by a registered dietitian/nutritionist.
• Make accommodations for special dietary needs and maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.
• Oversee inventory for all necessary supplies, food and equipment used for food services operations.
• Oversee processing and storage of food and food items as they are delivered.
• Safely operate, clean, and maintain utensils and equipment used in an institutional kitchen.
• Ensure sanitation requirements are met when storing, handling and preparing food.
• Supervise kitchen operations and staff/volunteers as needed.
• Implement a cost-effective food service program in line with CACFP meal requirements.

Skills

Food service

Kitchen operations

Health & safety

English proficiency

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Save the Children is seeking a Head Start Cook to support nutrition services for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. You will plan and prepare meals, follow USDA CACFP standards, manage inventories, and coordinate with center staff to ensure safe, appealing meals.

The role requires a high school diploma and several years of kitchen experience, strong English communication, and a commitment to teamwork, safety, and confidentiality in serving children and families.