Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Union membership
Professional development opportunities
Employee assistance program
Job Description
Santa Fe Public Schools is a leading educational institution dedicated to providing quality education and fostering a supportive community environment for students and staff. Within this framework, the Nina Otero Community School plays a critical role in shaping young minds and supporting student nutrition through its dedicated Student Nutrition Department. This department ensures that students have access to nutritious and appealing meals that meet the highest safety and quality standards. The school district's commitment to health, nutrition, and education is reflected in its policies and procedures, emphasizing compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while creating a positive and welcoming cafeteria environment.
The role of a Cook at Nina Otero Community School is integral to maintaining the efficiency and quality of the Student Nutrition Department. This is a full-time, 7 hours per day position spanning 177 contract days, operating under the supervision of the Cafeteria Manager. This non-exempt role is unionized under the NEA and requires adherence to strict guidelines to ensure that all meals served are nutritious, attractive, and meet reimbursable meal requirements. The Cook will prepare meals that comply with Child Nutrition program standards and sanitation policies of the district, ensuring a safe and clean environment for food preparation and service.
Candidates for this role should have, at minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent, with cooking experience being preferred. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are also considered advantageous. Essential to the position is obtaining a Food Handler Certification that meets the New Mexico Environment Department standards, which must be acquired within 30 days of employment if not already held. This certification ensures that all food handling practices are conducted safely and responsibly.
The Cook's daily responsibilities include preparing and serving meals using menus and standardized recipes, adhering to designated portion sizes, and following sanitation and safety standards. The role demands accurate recording of food usage, proper storage and disposal of food items, and assisting with inventory counts. The Cook also maintains cleanliness by practicing a "clean as you go" policy and reports any equipment issues or accidents promptly to the foodservice manager. The physical demands of the job require the ability to lift heavy items, stand or walk for the entire shift, and perform various movements such as bending, twisting, and reaching.
Working in a potentially hot and noisy kitchen environment, the Cook must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and behavior. They must also use equipment safely and efficiently, protecting district resources through careful use of supplies and demonstrating proper body mechanics to prevent injury. This position offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of students in Santa Fe Public Schools by delivering nutritious meals in a friendly and efficient manner, supporting the broader mission of education and community care.
The role of a Cook at Nina Otero Community School is integral to maintaining the efficiency and quality of the Student Nutrition Department. This is a full-time, 7 hours per day position spanning 177 contract days, operating under the supervision of the Cafeteria Manager. This non-exempt role is unionized under the NEA and requires adherence to strict guidelines to ensure that all meals served are nutritious, attractive, and meet reimbursable meal requirements. The Cook will prepare meals that comply with Child Nutrition program standards and sanitation policies of the district, ensuring a safe and clean environment for food preparation and service.
Candidates for this role should have, at minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent, with cooking experience being preferred. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are also considered advantageous. Essential to the position is obtaining a Food Handler Certification that meets the New Mexico Environment Department standards, which must be acquired within 30 days of employment if not already held. This certification ensures that all food handling practices are conducted safely and responsibly.
The Cook's daily responsibilities include preparing and serving meals using menus and standardized recipes, adhering to designated portion sizes, and following sanitation and safety standards. The role demands accurate recording of food usage, proper storage and disposal of food items, and assisting with inventory counts. The Cook also maintains cleanliness by practicing a "clean as you go" policy and reports any equipment issues or accidents promptly to the foodservice manager. The physical demands of the job require the ability to lift heavy items, stand or walk for the entire shift, and perform various movements such as bending, twisting, and reaching.
Working in a potentially hot and noisy kitchen environment, the Cook must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and behavior. They must also use equipment safely and efficiently, protecting district resources through careful use of supplies and demonstrating proper body mechanics to prevent injury. This position offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of students in Santa Fe Public Schools by delivering nutritious meals in a friendly and efficient manner, supporting the broader mission of education and community care.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Food Handler Certification must be held or obtained within 30 days
- Ability to work 7 hours per day for 177 days
- Capability to lift up to 40 pounds and stand or walk for entire shift
- Compliance with safety and sanitation standards
- Ability to communicate in English
- Must pass pre-employment background check
- Responsible for fingerprinting and background check costs
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Cooking experience preferred
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
- Food Handler Certification or ability to obtain within 30 days
- Knowledge of portion sizes and reimbursable meal requirements
- Ability to follow recipes and complete necessary documentation
- Effective communication skills with team and students
Job Duties
- Prepares and serves nutritious cafeteria meals in compliance with Child Nutrition program standards
- Ensures cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen and equipment
- Follows menus and standardized recipes with accurate portion control
- Maintains accurate records of food usage on production worksheets
- Assists with inventory counts and reports equipment issues
- Adheres to safety and health regulations including obtaining Food Handler Certification
- Communicates effectively with managers, teachers, and students
Job Criteria
Experience
Entry Level (1-2 years)
Job Location
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