Child Care Cook Part-Time No Nights or Weekends
27 days ago
Clarksville
Job DescriptionChild Care Cook Thrive Early Learning Center | Clarksville, TN MondayFriday | 6:30 AM12:30 PM Join a Team Where You Can Make a Difference Every Day Thrive Early Learning Center is a high-quality early childhood program dedicated to helping children grow in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. We believe children thrive when they are loved, supported, and given opportunities to explore, learn, and flourish. We are seeking a dependable, organized, and caring Child Care Cook who enjoys serving children and takes pride in preparing healthy meals in a clean, safe kitchen environment. This role is essential to the health and well-being of the children we serve. Why Join Thrive? • Supportive and positive team culture, • Meaningful work serving children and families, • MondayFriday schedule with no evenings or weekends, • Paid training and professional development opportunities, • Opportunity to make a lasting impact in children's lives Position Summary The Child Care Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years while ensuring full compliance with Tennessee Child Care Licensing regulations, CACFP requirements, food safety standards, and allergy protocols. Key Responsibilities Meal Preparation & Service • Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks according to approved menus and schedules., • Follow USDA meal pattern requirements and CACFP guidelines., • Ensure meals are served on time and in appropriate portions for each age group., • Maintain attractive and child-friendly meal presentation. Food Safety & Sanitation • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene procedures., • Monitor and document food temperatures., • Properly store, label, rotate, and date food items., • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, pantry, refrigerators, and storage areas., • Prevent cross-contamination through proper food handling and cleaning practices. Allergy & Dietary Management • Strictly adhere to all food allergy restrictions and individualized care plans., • Review classroom allergy postings daily., • Safely accommodate approved dietary modifications and special nutrition requirements., • Communicate proactively with administration regarding dietary concerns or menu adjustments. Inventory & Recordkeeping • Maintain accurate meal counts and required CACFP documentation., • Assist with menu planning and food ordering., • Monitor inventory levels and report supply needs promptly., • Help manage food costs while minimizing waste. Team Collaboration • Communicate professionally with directors, teachers, and families when appropriate., • Support center events, celebrations, and special activities., • Assist with other center needs as assigned., • Model Thrive's values of Build Belonging, Lead with Love, Protect Childhood, and Grow Together. Qualifications Required • Must be at least 18 years old., • Ability to pass all Tennessee Child Care Licensing requirements, including:, • Background check, • Physical examination, • Drug screening, • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds., • Reliable attendance and punctuality., • Strong organizational and time-management skills. Preferred • Previous experience cooking in a child care center, school, cafeteria, restaurant, or similar setting., • Knowledge of CACFP requirements., • Understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and safe food preparation practices., • ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain certification. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is: • Dependable and self-motivated, • Organized and detail-oriented, • Passionate about serving children, • Able to work independently and efficiently, • Committed to maintaining a clean, safe kitchen, • Positive, professional, and team-oriented Schedule MondayFriday 6:30 AM12:30 PM minimum Additional hours may occasionally be available based on center needs and willingness to work directly with children. Apply Today If you enjoy preparing healthy meals, creating a welcoming environment, and making a difference in the lives of children, we'd love to meet you.