Preschool Cook

Northstar Preschools; Ogden (UT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Paid time off

Holiday pay

Professional development opportunities

Tuition discounts for staff children

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Benefits

Job summary

Northstar Preschools in Ogden, Utah, is seeking a skilled Preschool Cook responsible for meal preparation, kitchen safety, and compliance within an early childhood education setting. The ideal candidate will ensure children receive nutritious meals in a clean environment.

Responsibilities include menu planning, food preparation, and maintaining health compliance. Benefits include competitive pay, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of professional kitchen experience, preferably in a school or childcare setting.
• Strong knowledge of nutrition guidelines and allergy management.
• Capable of planning menus and preparing meals for children.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute balanced, child-appropriate menus according to guidelines.
• Prepare fresh meals daily, accommodating dietary restrictions.
• Maintain compliance with health regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Knowledge of pediatric nutrition

Food safety compliance

Education

Valid Food Handlers Certification

Culinary degree or related certification

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Preschool Cook to oversee all aspects of meal preparation, kitchen safety, and compliance within our early childhood education setting. The successful candidate will ensure that our youngest learners receive nutritious, appealing meals in a clean, well‑managed environment.

Responsibilities

• Menu Planning & Preparation: Design and execute balanced, child‑appropriate menus in accordance with USDA guidelines and state childcare nutrition standards.
• Prepare fresh breakfasts, lunches, and snacks daily, accommodating allergies, dietary restrictions, and cultural preferences.
• Food Safety & Compliance: Maintain full compliance with local health department regulations and licensing requirements.
• Hold and routinely renew a valid Food Manager Certification; ensure all kitchen staff adhere to proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.
• Conduct regular self‑inspections and coordinate health department visits.
• Inventory & Purchasing: Order, receive, inspect, and store all food and kitchen supplies.
• Monitor inventory levels and manage food costs to maximize budgetary efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen workspace, including all equipment and service areas.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with the Director of Operations and teaching staff to support special events, children’s cooking activities, and parent engagement initiatives.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding menus, special dietary needs, and food‑related inquiries.

Qualifications

• Valid Food Handlers Certification
• Minimum of two (2) years’ professional kitchen experience, preferably in a school, childcare, or institutional setting
• Comprehensive knowledge of pediatric nutrition guidelines and allergy management
• Strong organizational, time‑management, and record‑keeping skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Culinary degree or related certification
• Experience supervising kitchen staff and coordinating health inspections
• Familiarity with farm‑to‑table sourcing or local food suppliers

Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience and education
• Paid time off
• Holiday pay
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition discounts for staff children
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Benefits

Equal Employment Opportunity

Northstar Preschools is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We do not discriminate based on any characteristics protected by applicable laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are treated fairly. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.