Nutrition Services Team Member - Cook I - Ankeny High School

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is a distinguished educational institution located in central Iowa, just six miles from Des Moines. Known for its excellence in academics, athletics, the arts, and various extracurricular activities, the district serves over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade. It is recognized as the seventh largest school district in the state of Iowa. The Ankeny CSD prides itself on providing a high-quality educational environment supported by a dedicated staff and a strong commitment to student success. This commitment extends to fostering a culture that promotes health, wellness, and safety throughout the entire district community.

Ankeny CSD is actively seeking Nutrition Services Team Members to join their dynamic Nutrition Services team. These positions are essential in supporting the district’s mission by ensuring students receive safe, nutritious, and appealing meals that enhance their learning experience. The team member roles are categorized into three levels: Cook I, Cook II, and Cook III. Each offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $17.75 to $18.75, with added responsibilities and requirements such as ServSafe certification for higher levels. The work schedule is from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, reporting directly to Nutrition Services Management, and is classified as non-exempt employment.

The primary focus of the Nutrition Services Team Member is to contribute to a culture of health and wellness by delivering high-quality food services within the district’s schools. These team members are integral to maintaining compliance with USDA guidelines, Iowa Food Code, and the district’s operational protocols. Their duties encompass food preparation, service, maintaining hygiene and sanitation standards, and supporting nutrition service goals through teamwork and effective communication. Candidates will perform tasks such as preparing food according to standardized recipes, serving menu items efficiently, cleaning and organizing food service areas, maintaining inventory through FIFO methods, and filling out necessary documentation like temperature logs and production records.

Beyond food preparation and service, the position requires excellent customer service skills, dependability, punctuality, and the initiative to perform duties with minimal supervision. Safety is a priority, with team members expected to adhere strictly to safety rules and guidelines, including the use of personal protective equipment and sustaining emotional control in a fast-paced environment. This role also involves physical demands such as lifting a minimum of 50 pounds, standing, walking, and working in varying temperature and humidity conditions, sometimes with exposure to communicable diseases.

Candidates are required to have a high school diploma or GED preferred, basic computer proficiency, the ability to read operating instructions, and must pass a post-offer pre-employment physical. While prior food service experience, especially in schools, healthcare, restaurants, or catering, is preferred, the district provides training to ensure all team members succeed. The team member will also participate in ongoing staff development and support district-wide goals and policies.

Joining the Ankeny Community School District Nutrition Services team means becoming part of an award-winning district with a supportive, inclusive work culture and a commitment to professional growth. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about contributing to student wellness through nutrition and seeking a fulfilling role with steady hours, competitive pay, and meaningful community impact.