School Kitchen Lead Cook — Weekday Mornings, No Nights

Whitsons Culinary Group; New Ipswich (NH); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401K with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Welcoming, supportive team environment

Daily impact through food

Job summary

Whitsons Culinary Group is seeking a Lead Cook to float between Jaffrey, Mascenic and Gardner Public Schools. You will lead meal prep, ensure safe, timely service, and guide a kitchen team in a positive, collaborative environment.

The role emphasizes healthy school meals, ServSafe standards, and a hands-on leadership position with opportunities for growth within a mission-driven team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; complete Whitsons and government-required training as necessary.
• Minimum 1 year of professional culinary or food service experience; school nutrition or institutional food service 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, 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 experience

Food safety

Team leadership

ServSafe

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Whitsons Culinary Group is seeking a Lead Cook to float between Jaffrey, Mascenic and Gardner Public Schools. You will lead meal prep, ensure safe, timely service, and guide a kitchen team in a positive, collaborative environment.

The role emphasizes healthy school meals, ServSafe standards, and a hands-on leadership position with opportunities for growth within a mission-driven team.