Cook - School Lunch Program - 2025/2026 SY

Position Type:
Lunch Program/Cook
Date Posted:
6/3/2025
Location:
Danbury High School - West Campus
Date Available:
2025/2026 SY
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled Scope:
Under the general direction of the High School Cafeteria Manager and the School Lunch Director or designee, the Cook is responsible for the preparation and production of meals in accordance with established nutritional guidelines and standardized recipes. The Cook may assist in directing and supporting kitchen aides and is responsible for maintaining a high standard of food quality, portion control, kitchen sanitation, and safety. This position supports the overall operation of the high school cafeteria and helps foster a positive, collaborative working environment among kitchen and school staff.
Examples of Job Duties:

• Prepares daily food production schedules or follows those provided by the High School Cafeteria Manager.
• Cooks a variety of foods using standardized recipes and approved preparation methods.
• Times and organizes food preparation to ensure small batches are made continuously during serving periods, preserving food quality and freshness.
• Estimates food quantities accurately and manages portion control to reduce waste and leftovers.
• Portions food based on standardized yield specifications.
• Assists with instructing and supporting kitchen aides in food preparation and service as directed.
• Maintains cleanliness and sanitation of all food preparation areas and ensures all health and safety standards are met.
• Reports equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs to the High School Cafeteria Manager or School Lunch Director.
• Adheres to assigned menus and makes substitutions only with the approval of the High School Cafeteria Manager.
• Maintains accurate records of meals served and supports recordkeeping as required.
• Requisitions food and supplies for daily operations.
• May assist with placing routine weekly orders (e.g., milk, bread) as needed.
• Cleans and maintains all kitchen utensils and equipment used in food preparation.
• Complies with all district food service policies and procedures.
• Collaborates professionally with kitchen team, school staff, and students to maintain a positive work environment.
• Performs other related duties as assigned to support the cafeteria operation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of large-scale food service principles and preparation techniques.
• Familiarity with recipe modification and the preparation of foods to meet dietary guidelines.
• Understanding of inventory procedures and proper food storage methods.
• Working knowledge of food safety standards, nutrition, and sanitation practices.
• Ability to safely operate standard kitchen equipment and tools.
• Physical ability to lift and move up to 30 pounds.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff and take direction from the High School Cafeteria Manager.
• Maintains a clean, neat appearance and practices good personal hygiene.

Working Environment & Equipment Used: The job's functions requires the following physical demands: occasional lifting (30 pounds maximum), carrying, pushing and/or pulling; some climbing; some stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling; and significant reaching, handling, speaking, writing, hearing, and fine finger dexterity; frequent standing, walking, and sitting, and lifting up to 30 pounds. High volume of work and strict adherence to workload may be stressful.
Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Posses a valid food handler's permit or ability to pass the exam
• Must have working knowledge of basic math applications and computation skills

RATE OF PAY:
$21.52 per hour/6.5 hours per day
Monday - Friday - 6:30am - 1:30pm with 1/2 hr break (6.5 hours total)
**Please note that the work schedule for this position may be subject to changes based on the school year calendar, weather conditions and operational needs.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Apply On-line