Site Cook 2 - Head Start

Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency (MWVCAA) is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on investing in people and their futures to reduce the impacts of poverty. MWVCAA strives to create a just and equitable future where communities are empowered to achieve positive outcomes, and every individual is respected for their infinite worth. The agency operates a variety of programs aimed at supporting families and children, including the Head Start program, which provides early childhood education and nutrition services to children in need. With a strong commitment to social equity and community upliftment, MWVCAA plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Oregon through education, outreach, and essential services.

The Site Cook 2 position within MWVCAA’s Head Start program plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive nutritious and well-prepared meals that meet federal and program standards. The Site Cook 2 is responsible for preparing breakfasts, lunches, and snacks for children attending their assigned location, as well as for children at non-cooking sites. This role often involves working with a team of Site Cook 1s and other Site Cook 2s, especially at larger sites, to manage the preparation and delivery of meals in large quantities. The position demands strong culinary skills, knowledge of nutrition, adherence to CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines, and careful attention to dietary restrictions due to allergies, religious preferences, or medical conditions.

In addition to food preparation, the Site Cook 2 manages kitchen operations including cleaning, recipe following, time management to ensure meals are served punctually, and accurate record-keeping for food service and compliance documentation. The cook also collaborates with classroom staff to enrich nutrition-related activities and supports interactions with children during meal times. A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle are required, as there is frequent driving between various Head Start sites. MWVCAA emphasizes safety and compliance, requiring candidates to register with the Central Background Registry of the Child Care Division, obtain CPR/First Aid certification, Food Handlers Card, and ServSafe Manager certification within specified timelines.

Physically, the role requires the ability to lift weights up to 50 pounds, extensive standing, and operating kitchen equipment such as ranges, ovens, steamers, and dishwashers. The working environment includes indoor kitchen settings with variable temperatures and occasional exposure to outside weather when traveling between locations. A flexible schedule is necessary to meet program needs, with tasks demanding keen organizational skills, multitasking ability, and problem-solving under deadlines. MWVCAA’s hiring practices reflect a commitment to equal opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or disability, offering accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

The Site Cook 2 position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing and development of children in the community through healthy meal preparation and food safety practices. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about nutrition, teamwork, and supporting families in overcoming poverty-related challenges. MWVCAA provides an inclusive work environment with training support such as certification assistance and encourages candidates to begin the Central Background Registry enrollment early due to processing time. By joining MWVCAA’s Head Start program as a Site Cook 2, employees become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a healthier, more equitable future one meal at a time.