Substitute Cook

Southwest-Licking-Local-School-District; Summit Station (OH); On-site; USD 23,419 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

Southwest-Licking Local School District is seeking a Substitute Cook to support K-12 meal service. You will prepare, cook, and assemble meals, following standardized recipes, and help maintain safe, sanitary kitchens across district sites.

Location varies based on need. Pay is $17.99 per hour. Candidates should have a high school diploma and knowledge of food safety, with strong teamwork and reliability to keep school meals running smoothly.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Ability to follow recipes and menu plans.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work in various school kitchens.
• Maintains a record free of criminal violations that would prohibit public school employment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and assemble meals for K-12 following recipes and menus.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation procedures, including hygiene and protective gear.
• Assist with meal service and keep kitchen area clean and organized.
• Maintain accurate records of meal preparation and inventory.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff and substitutes to ensure efficient kitchen operation.

Skills

Food safety awareness

Effective communication

Teamwork

Flexibility

Background check clear

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

• Position Type: Food Services/ Substitute Cook
• Date Posted: 7/6/2026
• Location: Southwest Licking Schools District Office
• Date Available: Ongoing
• Closing Date: Ongoing

Substitute cooks are responsible for ensuring the preparation and service of nutritious and appetizing meals to students in grades K-12 when regular food service staff members are absent. They play a vital role in maintaining food safety standards, adhering to menu guidelines, and serving high-quality meals.

Substitute cooks are essential in maintaining the continuity of school meal programs, ensuring that students receive nutritious and well-prepared meals. Their dedication to food safety, quality, and adherence to menu guidelines is crucial in supporting the overall health and well-being of students.

Location varies based on need.

Pay: $17.99/hour

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation

• Prepare, cook and assemble a variety of meals, including breakfasts, lunches and snacks, following standardized recipes and menu plans.
• Ensure that food is cooked and served at the appropriate temperatures to meet safety and quality standards.
• Accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests when necessary.

Sanitation and Food Safety

• Adhere to strict food safety and sanitation procedures, including proper handwashing, hygiene, and the use of appropriate protective gear.
• Clean and sanitize cooking equipment, utensils, and work areas to maintain a safe and sanitary kitchen environment.
• Monitor and record food temperatures to comply with health regulations.
• Follow established menu plans and recipes, ensuring that meals are prepared and served according to the district guidelines.
• Report any deviations from the menu or recipe to the supervising kitchen manager or lead cook.
• Assist with menu planning, as necessary.

Serving

• Ensure that food is portioned appropriately when served.
• Collaborate with other kitchen staff to maintain a smooth flow during meal service.
• Provide friendly and courteous services to students and staff.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized kitchen area, including dishwashing, sweeping, mopping, and taking out the trash.
• Report any equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs to the kitchen supervisor.
• Help with restocking food and supplies as needed.

Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate records of meal preparation and inventory.
• Complete required documentation related to food safety and sanitation.

Teamwork

• Collaborate with kitchen staff and substitute personnel to ensure the efficient operation of the kitchen.
• Assist in training and guiding kitchen assistants or volunteers when necessary.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Ability to follow recipes and menu plans.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work in various school kitchens and with different teams.
• Maintains a record free of criminal violations that would prohibit public school employment.