School Kitchen Lead Cook – HACCP & Menu Ops

Young World Physical Education; Altoona (IA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Polk Community School District Alternative Programs in Altoona, IA is seeking a Head Cook for the 10:00am-1:30pm shift at Alternate Programs. The role leads daily kitchen operations, ensures HACCP SOP compliance, and coordinates with staff to provide quality meals for students.

Requirements include a High School Diploma or equivalent, ServSafe certification within 6–12 months, plus ability to supervise and manage inventories. Reports to the Director of Food and Nutrition Services.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Prefer two years quantity cooking experience.
• Ability to obtain ServSafe certification within the first six months to one year.
• Ability to perform basic clerical and mathematical tasks.
• Ability to prioritize, organize and accomplish assigned work.
• Ability to provide work direction and respond to requests politely.
• Ability to work independently and/or lead a group.

Responsibilities

• Leads, coordinates, and participates in day-to-day food service operations.
• Prepare food per menus; estimate and order food and supplies; monitor costs.
• Receive orders, verify items arrive and store properly.
• Maintain and review menu production records and inventories.
• Oversee production, serving, cleanup, and staffing adjustments.
• Ensure serving areas are efficient and appealing to customers.
• Inspect kitchen to ensure HACCP SOPs and regulations compliance.
• Communicate with students, staff, and external groups; address issues.
• Take catering orders and ensure all aspects are fulfilled.
• Train employees on food handling, equipment use and sanitation.

Skills

lead a group

organizational skills

courteous communication

independent work

team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

ServSafe certification within 6–12 months

New Manager Training within first year

Job description

Southeast Polk Community School District Alternative Programs in Altoona, IA is seeking a Head Cook for the 10:00am-1:30pm shift at Alternate Programs. The role leads daily kitchen operations, ensures HACCP SOP compliance, and coordinates with staff to provide quality meals for students.

Requirements include a High School Diploma or equivalent, ServSafe certification within 6–12 months, plus ability to supervise and manage inventories. Reports to the Director of Food and Nutrition Services.