Lead Cook - Family-Friendly School Kitchen

whitsonsculinarygroup; Hanover (NH); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay with advancement

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401K with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Welcoming, supportive team

Job summary

Whitsons Culinary Group is seeking a Cook to lead school-kitchen operations, preparing and serving nutritious meals that support student health. You will supervise a team, manage recipes and portions, and ensure timely service in a safe, orderly environment.

This full-time role offers growth opportunities, hands-on training, and a mission-driven culture focused on student well-being and daily impact through food.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; must complete all Whitsons and government-required training as necessary.
• Minimum 1 year of professional culinary or food service experience required; school nutrition or institutional food service experience preferred.
• ServSafe certification required or must obtain within a defined timeframe upon hire; local food safety certification required in any jurisdiction of employment.
• Must be proficient in recipe procedures and cooking techniques; ability to speak and read English sufficient to understand and perform job assignments, follow recipes, and comply with safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and service of meals according to daily school menus and portion guidelines.
• Organize kitchen operations, ensuring food is safely cooked, beautifully presented, and ready on time.
• Support and guide team members in maintaining a clean, efficient, and friendly kitchen environment.
• Oversee food orders, inventory, and deliveries to keep everything running smoothly.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, sanitation protocols, and allergy accommodations.
• Keep accurate records including production sheets and temperature logs.

Skills

Culinary skills

Food safety

Leadership

Time management

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Whitsons Culinary Group is seeking a Cook to lead school-kitchen operations, preparing and serving nutritious meals that support student health. You will supervise a team, manage recipes and portions, and ensure timely service in a safe, orderly environment.

This full-time role offers growth opportunities, hands-on training, and a mission-driven culture focused on student well-being and daily impact through food.