Ardent Preschool
Position Overview:
The Ardent Preschool Cook will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving meals that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate any food allergies or restrictions. This role requires a passion for cooking, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing a safe and healthy eating environment for young children.
Key Responsibilities: • Meal Planning and Preparation:
o Follow Ardent's menu of nutritious and age-appropriate meals, and stay within compliance with state and federal (USDA) guidelines for child nutrition.
o Prepare and cook meals and snacks daily, ensuring that all food is fresh, well-prepared, and served at the appropriate temperatures.
o Modify menus and recipes to accommodate children with food allergies, sensitivities, and dietary restrictions. • Health and Safety:
o Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment in accordance with health department regulations and Ardent standards.
o Ensure proper food storage, handling, and preparation techniques to prevent contamination and foodborne illnesses.
o Adhere to all food safety and sanitation regulations, including regular cleaning of kitchen equipment. • Inventory and Supply Management:
o Monitor inventory levels and order food supplies as needed, ensuring that all ingredients are fresh and readily available.
o Manage kitchen budget effectively, minimizing waste and controlling costs.
o Receive and inspect deliveries, ensuring the quality and accuracy of food items received. • Record Keeping:
o Maintain accurate records of menus, food temperatures, inventory, and food allergies or dietary restrictions. • Collaboration and Communication:
o Work closely with preschool staff to coordinate meal times and accommodate classroom schedules.
o Communicate effectively about any food-related concerns or questions.
o Participate in team meetings and collaborate with staff to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment for children. • Additional Duties:
o Provide input on ways to enhance the meal program, including new recipes or food offerings.
o Perform other duties as assigned by the preschool director to support the overall mission of the preschool.
Qualifications: • Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary training or certification is a plus. Be ServSafe certified or obtain within 3 months of start of position. • Experience: Previous experience as a cook, preferably in a preschool, daycare, or similar setting. Experience with preparing meals for young children is highly desirable. • Skills:
o Knowledge of child nutrition guidelines and food safety regulations.
o Strong cooking skills with the ability to prepare meals that are both nutritious and appealing to young children.
o Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
o Ability to manage time effectively and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
o Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact positively with children, staff, and parents.
Physical Requirements: • Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive tasks. • Ability to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to heat, cold, and sharp objects.
Expected Hours: • This is a full-time position, 8 hours per day, minimum 40 hours per week as scheduled based on business needs. Regular and reliable attendance is essential. • Depending on staffing needs, the cook may be asked to cover classroom lunches from 12-2
The Ardent Preschool Cook will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving meals that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate any food allergies or restrictions. This role requires a passion for cooking, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing a safe and healthy eating environment for young children.
Key Responsibilities: • Meal Planning and Preparation:
o Follow Ardent's menu of nutritious and age-appropriate meals, and stay within compliance with state and federal (USDA) guidelines for child nutrition.
o Prepare and cook meals and snacks daily, ensuring that all food is fresh, well-prepared, and served at the appropriate temperatures.
o Modify menus and recipes to accommodate children with food allergies, sensitivities, and dietary restrictions. • Health and Safety:
o Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment in accordance with health department regulations and Ardent standards.
o Ensure proper food storage, handling, and preparation techniques to prevent contamination and foodborne illnesses.
o Adhere to all food safety and sanitation regulations, including regular cleaning of kitchen equipment. • Inventory and Supply Management:
o Monitor inventory levels and order food supplies as needed, ensuring that all ingredients are fresh and readily available.
o Manage kitchen budget effectively, minimizing waste and controlling costs.
o Receive and inspect deliveries, ensuring the quality and accuracy of food items received. • Record Keeping:
o Maintain accurate records of menus, food temperatures, inventory, and food allergies or dietary restrictions. • Collaboration and Communication:
o Work closely with preschool staff to coordinate meal times and accommodate classroom schedules.
o Communicate effectively about any food-related concerns or questions.
o Participate in team meetings and collaborate with staff to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment for children. • Additional Duties:
o Provide input on ways to enhance the meal program, including new recipes or food offerings.
o Perform other duties as assigned by the preschool director to support the overall mission of the preschool.
Qualifications: • Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary training or certification is a plus. Be ServSafe certified or obtain within 3 months of start of position. • Experience: Previous experience as a cook, preferably in a preschool, daycare, or similar setting. Experience with preparing meals for young children is highly desirable. • Skills:
o Knowledge of child nutrition guidelines and food safety regulations.
o Strong cooking skills with the ability to prepare meals that are both nutritious and appealing to young children.
o Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
o Ability to manage time effectively and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
o Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact positively with children, staff, and parents.
Physical Requirements: • Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive tasks. • Ability to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to heat, cold, and sharp objects.
Expected Hours: • This is a full-time position, 8 hours per day, minimum 40 hours per week as scheduled based on business needs. Regular and reliable attendance is essential. • Depending on staffing needs, the cook may be asked to cover classroom lunches from 12-2