Kids' Kitchen Coach: Healthy Meals & Safety

KinderCare Learning Companies; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 22,041 - 23,419; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted child care

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Employee assistance programs

Wellness programs

Paid time off

Discounts on work essentials

Job summary

KinderCare Learning Centers is hiring a Cook to prepare healthy meals and snacks for children in our centers, following menus by our in‑house nutritionist and complying with safety and regulatory standards.

You will help maintain kitchen operations, order supplies, and support classroom activities. The role requires Math skills, a Food Handler’s License (or willingness to obtain), and experience in institutional cooking or with children; English communication is essential.

Qualifications

• Love for children and a desire to make a difference daily.
• Familiarity with proper food storage, allergies awareness, and cross‑contamination prevention.
• Ability to follow nutritious menus and prepare appropriate quantities for a center population.
• Basic math skills for measuring and portions calculations.
• Possess a Food Handler’s License or willingness to obtain.
• At least 1 year of institutional cooking; food ordering experience is desirable.
• 2+ years’ experience working with children is desirable.
• Must be able to use a computer and lift up to 40 pounds; may work in kitchen or classroom.
• Read, write, and speak English to communicate with children and parents.

Responsibilities

• Maintain kitchen and equipment safely and hygienically.
• Order food and supplies.
• Dispense and store medications as requested.
• Complete timely documentation per KinderCare and licensing rules.
• Assist with other daily center duties as needed.
• Partner with center staff and leadership to support enrollment, accreditation, and engagement.

Skills

Love for children

Food safety & allergies

Menu & portions

Basic math

Food Handler’s License

Institutional cooking exp

Experience with children

Computer use & lifting up to 40 lbs

English communication

Job description

KinderCare Learning Centers is hiring a Cook to prepare healthy meals and snacks for children in our centers, following menus by our in‑house nutritionist and complying with safety and regulatory standards.

You will help maintain kitchen operations, order supplies, and support classroom activities. The role requires Math skills, a Food Handler’s License (or willingness to obtain), and experience in institutional cooking or with children; English communication is essential.