Cook/Assistant Teacher

Center Cook & Teacher Assistant

Feed little minds. Help little hearts grow.

Do you love cooking and enjoy working with children? Are you looking for meaningful work where you can make a difference every day? Join our Head Start team as a Center Cook & Teacher Assistant and play an important role in helping young children learn, grow, and thrive.

In this rewarding position, you'll prepare nutritious meals that support healthy development while also providing a warm, positive mealtime experience for children. Beyond the kitchen, you'll be part of a caring early childhood team, stepping into the classroom as needed to support teachers and help create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and encouraged.

What You'll Do

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen.
• Follow USDA, CACFP, and food safety guidelines. We will train you!
• Support children during mealtimes and participate in nutrition activities.
• Provide classroom coverage for staff breaks and assist teachers as needed.
• Work collaboratively with families, teachers, and program staff.

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience preparing meals for groups preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to obtain ServSafe Food Manager Certification within six months of hire.

Other Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license, adequate automobile insurance per state standards, and access to reliable transportation.
• Prior to employment, candidates must successfully pass fingerprinted criminal background, child protective services, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle record checks as required by state and federal childcare licensing regulations. Candidates must have no history of child abuse or exploitation and no disqualifying criminal or motor vehicle record that would preclude working with children.

Schedule & Compensation

• Flexible schedule of 25-30 hours per week
• Rate of pay based on experience and qualifications

Why You'll Love This Role

Every day offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact. Whether you're preparing healthy meals, encouraging a child to try something new, sharing a smile at lunchtime, or supporting learning in the classroom, your work will help build the foundation for a child's success. If you enjoy being part of a supportive team and making a meaningful difference in your community, we'd love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Interested candidates may apply online through our Paycom Careers Portal or submit a cover letter, resume with complete work history, and contact information for three professional references to [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer

Midcoast Maine Community Action is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, age, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.

Please request any accommodation necessary to participate in the application process.