Head Start Cook

The hiring establishment is a child care center located in Plainview, Texas, dedicated to providing high-quality nutritional meals to children while maintaining strict adherence to sanitation, safety, and regulatory standards. This center operates with a clear focus on meeting the daily dietary needs of children in an educational environment, ensuring that each meal preparation is done in compliance with USDA guidelines and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services regulations. With an emphasis on both quantity and quality, the center's kitchen staff plays a vital role in promoting health and wellness among the children they serve.

The role of the Food Service Cook at this child care center involves preparing breakfast, lunch, and snacks in sufficient quantities to meet the demands of the center. The cook is responsible for assembling food, dishes, utensils, and supplies necessary for timely meal preparation. Following standardized recipes and planned menus is essential, as is coordinating menu planning with daily classroom activities and special events to provide seamless integration between meal times and the center's schedule. The role requires a commitment to maintaining food service sanitation standards by ensuring that all food temperatures meet USDA guidelines and that kitchen areas remain sanitary, supporting the overall health standards mandated by regulatory bodies.

In addition to food preparation, the cook oversees routine maintenance of the kitchen and equipment, including weekly deep cleaning tasks to uphold hygiene and operational standards. Proper washing of dishes, pots, pans, and utensils using approved sanitation methods is a fundamental part of the job. Inventory management is also critical, as the cook must order or shop for food supplies while maintaining appropriate inventory levels to ensure uninterrupted service. Special dietary needs of children are carefully addressed, guaranteeing personalized attention that respects individual health requirements.

The position also involves significant record-keeping responsibilities, including preparing paperwork related to USDA and program guidelines, maintaining Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) applications and documentation, and ensuring timely submission of forms such as attendance records, meal production records, and reimbursement claims. These administrative duties ensure the center's continuous compliance with licensing regulations and food program requirements, thus safeguarding funding and operational integrity.

The ideal candidate possesses a Certified Food Manager Certification or will be scheduled for certification training soon after hire, with strong knowledge of large-scale food production and sanitation procedures. Basic computer skills are desired for managing program paperwork and inventory systems. The role demands physical stamina, including the ability to sit or stand for extended periods, perform repetitive motions, lift and move food items and equipment, and maintain focus during long hours of operation. Occasionally, the cook will assist in classroom activities and support parent engagement initiatives, reflecting the center's holistic approach to childhood development and community involvement.

Overall, this full-time position in Plainview, Texas, offers an opportunity for experienced food service professionals passionate about child nutrition and safety to contribute their expertise in a supportive and regulated environment. The role underscores the importance of teamwork, attention to detail, and dedication to quality in nurturing young children's health and educational experiences.