Child Nutrition - Serving Cook

Bethel School District is a respected educational institution committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for students of all backgrounds. The district values diversity and is dedicated to non-discriminatory practices across its programs and activities, ensuring equal access and opportunity for all community members. Located in Spanaway, Washington, Bethel School District is known for its comprehensive educational services and focus on student well-being and academic achievement. The district is actively seeking a Serving Cook to join the Child Nutrition department at Thompson Elementary, where the primary mission is to provide nutritious, appealing meals to support students' educational success and health.

The Serving Cook position is a classified role within the Child Nutrition department, with working hours set at 7 hours per day for 169 days per year, alongside additional hours allocated across a few other days annually. The position offers a competitive wage following the PSE Level 3 Salary Schedule with an hourly rate of $21.61. This full-time role involves varied tasks centered around food preparation, meal service, and kitchen cleanliness to ensure optimal nutrition and safety standards. The Serving Cook ensures meals are prepared, presented attractively, and served in quantities aligned with district meal standards. These duties are critical to promoting healthy eating habits among students, contributing directly to their ability to concentrate, learn, and thrive in school.

As a member of the Child Nutrition team at Thompson Elementary, the Serving Cook plays a vital role in supporting the educational framework by providing nourishing meals each school day. Responsibilities include setting up serving stations, ensuring food remains at appropriate temperatures, and maintaining sanitary conditions in the serving and kitchen areas. The position requires strong attention to detail to manage timing under strict meal deadlines and to comply with food safety regulations, including proper food handling and sanitation procedures. The Serving Cook also oversees the work of Child Nutrition helpers and Point of Service helpers, guiding them to maintain service quality and efficiency.

Physical demands of the job involve standing for extended periods, handling heavy food supplies, and working in environments with heat exposure from ovens and other kitchen equipment. The role requires a conscientious approach to safety, including wearing protective clothing and assisting with the cleanup of any spills. Given the close interaction with students, employees must undergo fingerprinting, a background check, and adhere to training related to infection control and food handler compliance. This ensures a safe environment for both staff and students.

Applicants for this position should hold certification with the State Nutrition Association (SNA) and possess a valid Washington state food handler's permit. Experience serving food and working with school-age children is desirable, emphasizing the need for candidates who demonstrate care, patience, and the ability to engage positively with young learners. Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage inventory and orders efficiently are also essential for success in this role.

The Serving Cook at Bethel School District will be part of a supportive team reporting to the Director of Child Nutrition and receiving guidance from the Cook Manager. This position is not only pivotal for ensuring nutrition but also plays a part in district committees and work teams to advance service quality and student well-being. The district offers comprehensive benefits including wages, insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and vacation, designed to support the long-term health and satisfaction of its employees. Bethel School District values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to their inclusive and dynamic environment.