Preschool Cook

Northstar Preschools; Washington (UT); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay based on experience

Paid time off

Holiday pay

Professional development opportunities

Tuition discounts for staff children

Medical, Dental, Vision, and other福利

Job summary

Northstar Preschools in Ogden is seeking a dedicated Preschool Cook to oversee meal preparation, kitchen safety, and compliance in a loving early childhood setting.

You will design kid-friendly menus, prepare daily meals, and ensure foods are safe for children with allergies, while maintaining a clean, organized kitchen and cooperating with staff and families.

Qualifications

• Valid Food Handlers Certification required.
• Minimum of two years’ professional kitchen experience, preferably in a school/childcare setting.
• Knowledge of pediatric nutrition guidelines and allergy management.
• Strong organizational, time-management, and record-keeping skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare balanced breakfasts, lunches, and snacks.
• Ensure compliance with USDA guidelines and state childcare nutrition standards.
• Maintain food safety and licensing compliance; renew Food Manager Certification.
• Coordinate with leadership and staff for events and family communications.

Skills

Food safety awareness

Communication skills

Organization

Allergy management

Education

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

About Us:

Northstar Preschools at Ogden believes in fostering academic, social, and developmental growth while creating a safe and loving space for children to learn and thrive. Our teachers play a vital role in shaping young hearts and minds through engaging curriculum, positive reinforcement, and by following our core values.

Our core values:

• Pursue Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in early childhood education, we consistently deliver high-quality experiences.
• Lead by Serving: Our leadership is built on respect that is earned through action, humility, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the success of everyone around us.
• Promote Growth: Committed to a growth mindset, we explore the potential in ourselves and others by striving to be better every day.
• Nurture Positivity: We choose to be positive, compassionate, and joyful, cultivating a supportive and caring atmosphere.
• Take Ownership: We take responsibility and push beyond obstacles, understanding that meaningful change starts with us.

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.