Head Cook

Description

The Head Cook plays a pivotal role in ensuring the nutritional needs of children attending the Head Start center are met. This position oversees the planning, preparation, and serving of nutritious meals in compliance with the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. The Kitchen Supervisor is responsible for maintaining high standards of food safety and sanitation, managing kitchen staff, and fostering a positive dining environment for children. The Head cook also coordinates meal deliveries to classrooms, maintains food and supplies inventory, keeps records required by CACFP and steps in to cook when kitchen is understaffed.   

Requirements

1. Ensures adherence to health department regulations and USDA/ CACFP guidelines. 
2. Develop, create, and distribute menus adhering to USDA/CACFP standards. 
3. Plan and prepare meals according to USDA/CACFP Food Service Policy, Menus, and Recipes, ensuring nutritional value and portion control. 
4. Assure completion and accuracy of CACFP binder, including CN labels, menus, invoices. 
5. Create the Master list every month for completion and accuracy in collaboration with the Center Director and ensures that an accurate, complete and signed list is placed in the CACFP binder every month. 
6. Manage food inventory and supplies to meet the needs of enrolled children and program staff, minimizing the need for substitutions. 
7. Collaborate with program staff to accommodate special dietary needs and food allergies of children. 
8. Maintain accurate records of food production, inventory, and meal counts for CACFP reporting purposes. 
9. Order food and kitchen supplies, monitor inventory levels, and ensure proper storage of perishable and non-perishable items. 
10. Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained, serviced, and in good working condition, following manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines. 
11. Monitor food temperatures during preparation, storage, and serving to prevent foodborne illnesses. 
12. Maintain sanitation, safety, and hygiene standards in the kitchen, complying with local and state health department regulations. 
13. Supervise kitchen staff, including assigning duties, providing training, and ensuring adherence to food safety protocols, sanitation standards and ensuring compliance with kitchen licenses and SERV safe Certifications. 
14. Attend meetings and workshops related to nutrition, food safety, and professional development as required. 
15. Ensure that all classrooms and kitchen staff have up-to-date lists of allergies, special diets, and dietary restrictions. Complete and file necessary paperwork for allergies and meal substitutions accurately to ensure CACFP meal reimbursement. 
16. Complete any other duties as assigned by the Center Director. 

Qualifications and Experience Requirements: 

• Highschool Diploma or equivalent required.
• Culinary or ServSafe certification required. 
• Proven experience working in a commercial kitchen, preferably in a childcare or school setting. 
• Knowledge of nutrition guidelines and food safety regulations, particularly CACFP requirements. 
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to supervise kitchen staff effectively. 
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation. 
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and build trusting relationships. 
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects, and perform tasks in a fast-paced environment.  
• Flexibility to adapt to changing menu requirements, dietary restrictions, and special events. 
• Ability to converse, read and write Spanish and English (preferred). 
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills, internet, and e-mail. 
• Ability to secure clearance for PA Child Abuse, PA Criminal History, FBI, and National Sex Offenders Clearance (required). 
• Possess or ability to secure a Driver’s License and insurance (preferred). 
• Ability to secure health clearances every two years and TB once (required). 
• Proficiency in Excel, Powe point and Microsoft Office, Salesforce.