Lead Cook

ServingSchools; Waterville (ME); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

The Alfond Youth & Community Center is seeking a Lead Cook to guide kitchen staff in preparing nutritious meals for AYCC childcare programs. You will ensure safe, sanitary operations and contribute to menu planning that aligns with USDA standards.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced team environment while maintaining food safety and records. A valid driver’s license is preferred and flexibility is necessary for varied hours.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Knowledge of food safety practices required; ServSafe certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Experience in large-scale or school-focused food service is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead in preparing and serving healthy meals and snacks for AYCC childcare programs.
• Help plan and distribute monthly menus meeting USDA standards.
• Maintain sanitation, safety, and cleanliness per Maine Health Department rules.
• Maintain accurate records of servings, production, and temperatures.
• Address allergies and relevant health information for children as needed.
• Support reports and claims for Maine DHHS compliance.
• Prepare for special functions as directed and manage budget-friendly supplies.

Skills

Commercial cooking

Team leadership

Organizational skills

Multi-tasking

Computer reports

Deadlines

Critical thinking

Flexibility

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain

Job description

Do you love creating nutritious meals and thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen? The Alfond Youth & Community Center is looking for a Lead Cook to help fuel the children and families we serve. In this hands-on role, you'll assist in leading kitchen staff in preparing and serving healthy, delicious meals and snacks while helping maintain a welcoming, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment.

Essential Functions

• Prepare and serve healthy and nutritious meals and snacks for AYCC childcare programs including Pre-School, After-School, Summer Enrichment, and Teen Program participants.
• Work with the Food & Nutrition Services Director to prepare and distribute a monthly menu of meals and snacks that meet or exceed U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] standards appropriate for the persons served.
• Maintain order, safety, sanitation, and general cleanliness in accordance with the State of Maine Health Department rules and regulations.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of number of children served and production records including temperatures.
• Understand and prepare for allergies and/or other relevant health information that may affect the child in case of injury, behavior, or mental well-being.
• Work with the Food & Nutrition Services Director to maintain records and prepare reports and claims necessary to comply with the requirements of Maine Department of Health and Human Services [DHHS]
• Prepare and serve for special functions as directed.
• Recommend needed supplies within budget limitations.

Skills & Competencies

• Commercial (large scale) cooking
• Temperament that encourages confidence, trust, and respect from the members, staff, and public within the mission of the Alfond Youth & Community Center
• Organizational skills & attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment, both independently and as a team.
• Computer competency including the ability to prepare & produce reports
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Critical thinking
• Flexibility
• A valid driver's license with a clean record

WORK SCHEDULE:

40 hours. Primary hours will take place Mon-Fri but schedule will vary; weekends will be required throughout the year.

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• A high school education or a GED equivalence is preferred.
• Knowledge of, and adherence to, food safety practices and procedure is required. ServSafe certification or ability to obtain certification is required.

Experience

• One to three years of experience cooking in a school, medical, or commercial environment is essential.
• Experience working around elementary school aged children and enjoying working in this environment is essential.

AYCC is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workplace environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.