Culinary Cook

Job Description Position SummaryThe Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, well-balanced, and visually appealing meals for children at Bright Beginnings Learning Center. This role ensures high standards of food quality, portion control, and sanitation by following approved recipes, CACFP guidelines, and established safety practices. The Cook also maintains cleanliness, supports inventory management, and ensures all kitchen areas and equipment are kept in proper working order. This position requires maintaining a valid Food Handler's Certificate and Safe Food Certification while adhering to all food safety, CACFP, and childcare regulations.Hours: 6:30 AM-2:30 PMMTWTHFEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesMeal Preparation & ServicePrepare and serve nutritious, balanced meals according to the center's approved menu and CACFP meal patterns.Ensure all meals meet CACFP component requirements, including proper portions of milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein.Use production worksheets to determine appropriate quantities of ingredients.Follow standardized recipes, including proper ingredients, measurements, and cooking methods.Ensure all food is cooked and served at safe and appropriate temperatures.Serve the correct type and amount of milk (1% or whole for children over 2, whole milk for children under 2), including substitutions for allergies or special dietary needs.Ensure all substitutions are supported by proper documentation (e.g., medical statements when required).Collect and properly store any unused milk.Taste food using a clean utensil only (never hands) to ensure quality.CACFP Compliance & DocumentationFollow all Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines and regulations.Maintain accurate daily meal counts at the point of service.Ensure meals are served within approved CACFP timeframes.Complete and maintain production records, documenting menu items, quantities prepared, and leftovers.Ensure all required food components are served and documented for reimbursement eligibility.Maintain organized CACFP records for review, including menus, meal counts, and receipts.Support CACFP monitoring visits, reviews, and audits by ensuring full compliance at all times.Participate in CACFP training and implement updates as required.Food Storage & InventoryStore food safely and monitor expiration dates consistently.Label all food items with the date and time of storage.Maintain clean, organized refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas in accordance with CACFP and health department standards.Ensure proper food rotation using FIFO (First In, First Out) practices.Assist with ordering food and kitchen supplies as needed.Keep accurate inventory and supply records.Retain at least two empty milk containers daily for waste tracking purposes.Kitchen Rules & Hygiene1. HandwashingWash hands upon entering and exiting the kitchen.Wash hands after restroom use, handling raw food, or touching face/hair.2. Aprons & GlovesWear a clean apron daily.Remove apron before using the restroom.Wear gloves during all food preparation and service.Remove gloves when leaving the kitchen.3. Hair & Personal HygieneKeep hair covered at all times with a hairnet or cap.Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene at all times.Cleaning & SanitationClean and sanitize countertops throughout the day.Clean stove, oven, and microwave daily.Maintain a clean and organized refrigerator.Wash, dry, and store dishes daily.Clean and sanitize sinks at the end of each day.Sweep and mop floors daily.Empty trash daily and assist with disposal as needed.Store cleaning chemicals safely on lower shelves and secure them after use.Safety & MaintenanceWear appropriate kitchen attire at all times: apron, hairnet, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.Report any unsafe equipment or maintenance concerns immediately.Ensure all kitchen equipment and food preparation areas are properly maintained.Follow all local health department and CACFP food safety regulations.SummaryThis position requires a dependable and detail-oriented individual who can effectively manage meal preparation, sanitation, CACFP compliance, safety, and inventory responsibilities. By following these standards, the Cook plays a vital role in supporting the health, safety, and nutritional well-being of all children at Bright Beginnings Learning Center while ensuring full compliance with CACFP regulations.