Cook

Job Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious, child friendly meals and snacks in accordance with My Joy Learning Center (MJLC) standards, state licensing requirements, and all food safety regulations. This role ensures a clean, sanitary kitchen environment, maintains accurate documentation, manages inventory, and supports the overall operations of the center. Cooks may also be required to assist in classrooms when staffing needs arise and must remain in full compliance with all required training and staff expectations.

Responsibilities

Meal Preparation and Service

• Plan and prepare meals and snacks that meet proper nutritional and licensing requirements.
• Serve all meals and snacks at designated times.
• Follow all allergy, dietary restriction, and foodsubstitution guidelines.
• Ensure portion sizes are appropriate for age groups served.

Food Safety and Sanitation

• Ensure all food is stored, labeled, rotated, and handled properly.
• Maintain a thoroughly sanitary kitchen at all times.
• Complete daily cleaning tasks and maintain daily cleaning logs.
• Clean and disinfect kitchen, equipment, and prep areas at the end of each day.
• Maintain a valid Food Handler’s Card at all times.
• Keep the kitchen door closed and locked when not in use.
• Practice proper handwashing and hygiene consistently.

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain all food order forms and delivery records.
• Keep accurate monthly refrigerator and freezer temperature logs.
• Follow all MJLC policies, licensing regulations, and health department standards
• Attend all mandatory staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
• Stay in full compliance with all required annual and ongoing trainings as mandated by MJLC and state licensing.
• Maintain accurate Food Logs

Inventory, Ordering and Supplies

• Receive, unpack, organize, and put away all Walmart, Instacart, Amazon, and vendor orders.
• Maintain an organized pantry, dry storage, refrigerator, and freezer.
• Inform the Building Lead of inventory needs, low stock, or items on backorder/hold.
• Track usage to ensure adequate supplies for weekly menus.

Cross Location and Operational Support

• Cooks may be required to work at any MJLC location based on staffing and operational needs.
• Assist in classrooms when staffing shortages require additional support (noninstructional tasks such as supervision, transitions, or helping teachers).
• Attend all MJLC events where food is offered or served.
• Perform any additional duties requested by MJLC leadership to support smooth daily operations.

Pay: $13.00 - $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35.0 per week

Work Location: In person