Cook (Part-time)

The City of La Habra Child Development Division is part of the local government of La Habra, a charming and vibrant city located at the northernmost corner of Orange County, California. Known for its rich community events such as the Tamale Festival, Corn Festival, Citrus Fair, and notable attractions like the Children’s Museum and Depot Theatre, La Habra is a bedroom community that offers a peaceful environment while maintaining easy access to beaches, mountains, and desert recreational areas within an hour's drive. The city spans 7.3 square miles and has a population of nearly 62,000, reflecting a close-knit yet diverse community dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

The City of La Habra Child Development Division is committed to providing high quality child care programs that inspire and nurture the individuality and creativity of every child. The division's programs are designed to foster a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment where children can learn and grow under the supervision of professional, caring staff. Embracing a philosophy that acknowledges each child's unique combination of family background, language, culture, personality, and learning style, the division strongly believes all children are capable and competent individuals with equal value. The Child Development Division’s programs encourage life-long learning through curiosity, resourcefulness, persistence, problem solving, and creativity by utilizing a play-based curriculum inspired by educational theories from Piaget, Vygotsky, Dewey, and Erickson. This approach allows children to explore, experiment, and construct knowledge through play, supported by a community of learners and educators.

The part-time Cook position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in meaningful work within this inspiring environment. Reporting to the Program Specialist and/or Lead Teacher, the Cook will be responsible for meal planning, food preparation, and maintaining kitchen sanitation to support the health and well-being of children enrolled in the child care programs. This role requires approximately 25 to 28 hours per week, Monday through Friday, offering a schedule that balances work and personal life. The Cook will prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks in compliance with the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) food guidelines, ensuring proper nutritional components and quantities are provided. Beyond meal preparation, the role includes ordering and managing food supplies, maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment, and completing all required record-keeping documentation for CACFP compliance.

This position demands a strong knowledge of meal planning for children, the ability to substitute food items when necessary with supervisory approval, and meticulous attention to food safety and waste control. The Cook will also play a critical role in accommodating children’s allergies by preparing appropriate meal substitutes and posting allergy lists confidentially. This role is essential in providing a nurturing meal environment that supports the overall mission of the Child Development Division to develop children's potential and enjoyment of life through nutrition and care.

Joining the City of La Habra Child Development Division means becoming part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, encourages personal growth, and is committed to enriching the lives of children and families in the community. If you are passionate about contributing to child development through healthy and enjoyable meal preparation and want to work in a supportive environment focused on community well-being, this part-time Cook opportunity is an ideal match. With a focus on nutritious, balanced meals and compliance with state and federal standards, this role offers meaningful work that positively impacts children’s lives every day.