Preschool Chef

The Learning Experience; Winter Haven (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Learning Experience in Winter Haven, Florida, is seeking a dedicated individual for a childcare position focused on meal preparation and ensuring children's basic needs. Responsibilities include planning and preparing nutritious meals while maintaining a safe kitchen environment.

A High School Diploma/GED is required along with relevant experience in a childcare or commercial kitchen. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid food handler's permit. Join our supportive team to make a positive impact on children's lives.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Relevant experience in a childcare or kitchen environment.
• Possess a valid food service/handler's permit as required.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare meals according to nutritional guidelines.
• Maintain a safe and sanitary kitchen environment.
• Ensure children's needs are met during meal times.
• Collaborate with the team to support a positive atmosphere.

Skills

Childcare skills

Nutritional knowledge

Customer service

Team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Early Childhood Education coursework

Job description

Compensation

Information not provided.

Core Attributes

• Passion for Impact: A heart that beats for children's developmental needs and happiness.
• Growth Mindset: An unyielding belief in the potential of every child and an innate desire to inspire a lifelong love of learning.

Role Responsibilities

Planning, Preparation, and Maintenance of Equipment

• Is knowledgeable of state nutritional requirements of children.
• Plan, post, and follow approved menus that are nutritionally sound, making alternate substitutions as needed.
• Keep accurate inventory records and place food orders within the center food budget.
• Chop, cut, prepare, and serve food in amounts based on daily attendance.
• Serve food at appropriate temperatures and in classroom-safe serving containers.
• Maintain safe storage of all food, supplies, and equipment in accordance with state/local regulations.
• Keep accurate meal and snack count records per CACFP guidelines (if applicable).

Safety and Sanitary Procedures

• Follow all health, hygiene, and safety procedures, including proper lifting and handwashing techniques.
• Empty and sanitize trash receptacles regularly.
• Wash and sanitize all dishes and cookware using approved methods.
• Clean and maintain all kitchen appliances including refrigerators, microwaves, and can openers.
• Clean counters, shelves, and manage spills as needed.
• Understand and follow emergency procedures for all relevant scenarios.

Additional Responsibilities

• Ask for help when needed and maintain a positive attitude.
• Foster respectful and supportive relationships with regulatory representatives and center staff.
• Collaborate with other team members to create a harmonious work environment.
• Handle routine situations with good judgment, flexibility, and positivity.
• Support group decisions and demonstrate team spirit.
• Build friendly rapport with families and provide outstanding customer service.
• Conduct food shopping as necessary and assist in classrooms when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Must meet state-specific guidelines. High School Diploma/GED required; ECE coursework preferred.
• Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Experience: Relevant experience in a licensed childcare facility kitchen, commercial kitchen, public school cafeteria, or equivalent.
• Compliance: Must meet state-specific guidelines for the role.
• Certification: Possess a valid food service/handler’s permit or license as required by state/local regulations.
• Health & Safety: Follow all state and federal regulations including immunizations, physicals, and training requirements.

Caregiving Skills (Child Interaction)

• Use sound judgment to identify and address risks in a childcare environment.
• Ensure children are safe and that their needs (diapering, dressing, grooming, feeding) are met.
• Model and promote positive social behaviors and strong communication.
• Support development through engaging, age‑appropriate activities.
• Maintain composure, patience, and professionalism at all times.

Physical Resilience

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 40 pounds safely.
• Reach, stretch, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Store and retrieve food items from shelves at varying heights using stools or ladders.
• Ability to supervise children by sight and sound.
• Work portions of the day outdoors in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F.
• Maintain alertness and energy to perform all essential job functions.

*Reasonable accommodations can be made with supporting documentation.