Introduction to Smart Kids CDC:

At Smart Kids CDC, we make an impact on young minds and help to build a better tomorrow for the next generation. We look for like-minded individuals who have a passion to make a difference in children’s lives through learning. We connect with our local communities by putting family first. Smart Kids CDC employees are committed to providing a safe learning environment, giving children a sense of belonging, achievement and individuality while allowing parents to feel at ease and confident in the well-being of their family.

Join our team and make a difference in your community!

Smart Kids CDC is looking for an experienced School Cook at our Gastonia Center!

What we offer!

• PTO
• Paid holidays
• Discounted childcare tuition

• Medical benefits & 401k with 4% employer match
• Training and development

The role:

The Child Care Center Cook is responsible for menu planning, purchasing of groceries and supplies and daily preparation of nutritious meals and snacks served to the children (ages 12 months to 10 years) enrolled in the center.

The successful candidate will be accountable for:

• Prepare weekly menus that are healthy and are up to the national nutrition guide
• Work with the center director to plan meal plans and maintain budgets
• Prepare breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks for all classrooms
• Serve meals to each classroom on time, at the appropriate temperature
• Lunch service will need to be delivered a second site, with food temperatures documented before leaving and upon arrival
• Work with staff to collect meal numbers before food preparation of each meal
• Make weekly food orders through vendors
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including all food storage areas
• Make sure all thermometers are working properly
• Ensure all food items are checked for expiration dates
• Wash and sanitize all dishes
• Clean the entire kitchen and appliances throughout the day
• Remove trash and recyclables daily
• Organize and put away all groceries, food orders and non-food items
• Protect the privacy and confidentiality of information pertaining to families, children, team members, administration, and Board of Directors
• Build positive relationships and communicate in a respectful manner with families, children, team members, and directors, and the communities in which we serve

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and education requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required
  
• 1+ years of experience in a kitchen
• Experience with Menu Planning, Ordering Food/Supplies, Inventory, Food Safety and Nutrition
• Food Handler Card
  
• Background verification check

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills:

• Prior experience as a cook or chef is a plus
• Be able to lift up to 40 pounds

Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment
Smart Kids CDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, Aboriginal/Native American status, or any other legally protected factors. Disability-related accommodations during the application process are available upon request.