2026-2027 Cook Helper - Hilltop Elementary

Hilltop Elementary is a vibrant educational institution committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. As part of the local school district, Hilltop Elementary focuses not only on academic excellence but also on the holistic well-being of its students. Recognizing the critical role nutrition plays in student development, the school's food service department is dedicated to preparing and serving healthy, delicious meals that meet federal, state, and local guidelines. This emphasis on quality and care extends to all staff members, including those who support food preparation and service. The school operates within a close-knit community, fostering cooperation and teamwork among its employees to ensure smooth daily operations and a positive atmosphere for students and staff alike.

This role is a part-time Cook Helper position at Hilltop Elementary, designed for individuals passionate about supporting food service operations within a school setting. The Cook Helper will work during the school year, five hours per day from Monday through Friday. The job involves assisting in a broad range of kitchen and food service tasks, including preparing menu items for breakfast and lunch, serving meals, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting compliance with safety and sanitation standards such as HACCP regulations. The position requires collaboration with kitchen staff and other employees to ensure a smooth, efficient, and safe meal service experience for students and staff. The hourly pay for this role starts at $22.27, offering a competitive wage for part-time employment.

Beyond hourly compensation, this position offers valuable benefits including paid sick days, personal days, and paid holidays. There are health insurance options available, some at no cost for single coverage, as well as long-term disability and life insurance plans provided through IGHS. Staff members are encouraged to take advantage of retirement benefits, including contributions to the PERA plan and tax-sheltered annuities with a dollar-for-dollar match, further supporting long-term financial security. The Cook Helper position also offers opportunities for professional growth and training, as employees are encouraged to attend educational classes, in-services, and workshops to deepen their knowledge and skills.

The ideal candidate for this role is someone with a high school diploma or equivalent, culinary experience, strong organizational and communication skills, and a cooperative attitude. Maintaining confidentiality concerning students and staff is important, along with the ability to perform mathematical computations and adhere to hygiene standards. This role demands attention to detail and a commitment to following federal and state regulations regarding food safety and public nutrition services. Hilltop Elementary is dedicated to employing individuals who take pride in their work and contribute positively to the school community. This position is vital in creating an environment where every student enjoys healthy, well-prepared meals in a clean and safe setting, thereby supporting their overall learning experience.