Full-Time Cook / Food Service Staff

District 34 Food Service is a dedicated department within the educational district, focused on providing nutritious and delicious meals to students and staff. Serving a diverse student population, including NSSED and LICA students, District 34 is deeply committed to maintaining food service standards while promoting a positive and inclusive climate for all individuals. This food service program operates under strict Federal, State, and local rules to ensure all meals are safe, healthy, and meet nutritional guidelines, thereby supporting the overall wellness and academic success of the students. The department is not only concerned with serving food but also with maintaining financial stability through effective cost management and operational efficiency. As a food service provider in an educational environment, the department emphasizes teamwork, customer service, and operational excellence, continually evolving through training and adopting best industry practices to support the school community effectively.

The position available is for a full-time Cook / Food Service Staff Member working 6.5 hours per day, following the student attendance calendar. This role is integral to the daily operation of the school kitchen and lunchroom, requiring an energetic, flexible, and dependable professional who thrives in fast-paced environments. The candidate must be capable of performing various duties, including cooking, food preparation, cashiering, dishwashing, and inventory management, with training provided for all aspects of kitchen operations. Essential physical requirements involve lifting up to 36 pounds, pushing or pulling up to 100 pounds, occasional climbing, stooping, and standing for extended periods. This hands-on role supports the delivery of high-quality meals while ensuring compliance with sanitation and safety standards, with sanitation certification required within six months of employment.

This role reports to the Director of Food Services and collaborates regularly with school administrators, teachers, and volunteers. Responsibilities include ordering food supplies, managing inventory, controlling food and labor costs, and maintaining daily reports to support financial accuracy. The person in this role also supervises breakfast programs, decorates kitchens for promotions, and is responsible for taking daily deposits to the bank. A significant part of the position involves adhering to standard operating procedures to maintain safety and quality, engaging positively with students and staff, and contributing to the overall positive climate in the schools. The role offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $17.20 to $21.16 based on experience and factors, and includes an array of benefits such as board-paid medical and dental insurance, life and disability insurance, sick and personal days, and retirement plans. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about cooking and making a positive impact in a school community while working within a structured and supportive environment.