Nutrition Services Team Member - Cook I - Heritage Elementary

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is a well-established educational institution located in central Iowa, just six miles from Des Moines. As the seventh largest school district in the state, Ankeny CSD serves over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade. The district has earned a reputation for excellence, not only in academics but also in athletics, the arts, and a wide range of activities. This reputation is built on a strong commitment to student success and an educational environment that supports and promotes high-quality learning experiences.

Ankeny CSD prides itself on fostering a culture of health and wellness among its students, staff, and community. To support this mission, the Nutrition Services Department plays a vital role in providing safe, nutritious, and appealing food that aligns with USDA guidelines and Iowa Food Code standards. The department is committed to maintaining high operational standards, ensuring food safety, and encouraging a positive dining experience for all students.

The role of Nutrition Services Team Member within Ankeny Community School District is essential to this mission. This position involves contributing to the preparation and serving of nutritious meals, ensuring food quality and safety, and delivering excellent customer service within a fast-paced school environment. Available positions include Cook I, Cook II, and Cook III, each with differing levels of responsibility and corresponding hourly wages ranging from $17.75 to $18.75 per hour. Certified cooks (Cook II and Cook III) have the added responsibility of following ServSafe standards, and Cook III positions focus heavily on preparing and cooking food.

Working hours are scheduled between 10:15 AM and 1:30 PM, reporting directly to Nutrition Services Management. This is a non-exempt hourly position, meaning employees are eligible for overtime pay where applicable. The Ankeny Community School District offers a competitive compensation package and benefits to support employee well-being and job satisfaction.

Team members in this role are expected to promote and maintain high standards of hygiene, food preparation, and customer service. They are responsible for ensuring that food is served quickly and accurately while adhering to standardized recipes and departmental quality guidelines. Cleaning tasks, inventory management following FIFO (First-In First-Out) principles, and operating computer systems for record-keeping are important aspects of the job. Additionally, team members must demonstrate dependability, punctuality, initiative, and the ability to maintain composure and solve problems in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Beyond the essential duties, team members participate in staff development, maintain positive relationships with school personnel and students, and uphold the safety protocols and policies of the Ankeny Community School District. This role requires physical ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and maintain emotional control under stress. Candidates must successfully pass a post-offer pre-employment physical and background check to ensure compliance with district safety and employment standards.

Overall, this position offers an opportunity to be part of a valued team that directly contributes to the health, wellness, and educational success of students. It is well-suited for individuals who are passionate about food service, enjoy working in a collaborative school environment, and are committed to excellence and continuous learning within their role.