Substitute Cook

Kalamazoo Public Schools is a respected educational institution committed to providing quality education and fostering a supportive community environment for students, staff, and families. Located at 1220 Howard St, Kalamazoo, MI, this school district prioritizes not only academic excellence but also the well-being and nutritional needs of its students. With an emphasis on creating safe, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences, Kalamazoo Public Schools continuously works to maintain high standards across all areas, including their food service operations. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom to include quality meal programs that support student health and success. The district is an equal opportunity employer, promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce and student body.

The role of Substitute Cook within the Kalamazoo Public Schools Food Service Department is pivotal in supporting the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs in the secondary schools. This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $16.63 and provides an opportunity for individuals interested in food service to contribute to the nutritional well-being of students in an educational environment. The Substitute Cook works directly with the Food Service Manager and kitchen staff to ensure meal components are prepared accurately, safely, and in accordance with established standards and regulations. The role requires a person who is meticulous in food preparation, understands and adheres to sanitation and safety guidelines, and is capable of performing various kitchen tasks efficiently within assigned time frames.

Substitute Cooks are responsible for implementing standardized menus which include preparing entrée components in the correct portion sizes and quantities to meet school lunch schedules. They assist with production planning such as creating thaw lists and production schedules, measure and prepare ingredients for recipes, operate commercial kitchen equipment, and maintain cleanliness and sanitation of food preparation areas and equipment. The role also demands strict compliance with all USDA, Michigan Department of Education, district, and health department rules and regulations to safeguard food quality and safety. Interpersonal skills are essential as Substitute Cooks must effectively communicate with managers, other staff, and students to address concerns and provide high standards of service.

This position requires physical stamina and dexterity to perform tasks such as standing for extended periods, occasional bending, squatting, reaching, and lifting items weighing between five and forty pounds. Candidates must demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and strong personal hygiene. Furthermore, the Substitute Cook is expected to actively participate in mandatory State-Wide Training Programs such as sanitation and safety classes provided by the Michigan School Food Service Association and the Michigan Department of Education within two years of employment. This role offers both a meaningful work experience and the chance to support student health initiatives in the district's food service program while working in a collaborative and structured setting.