Cook

Description

JOIN THE ECS4Kids TEAM

At ECS4Kids (formerly Episcopal Children’s Services), we honor young children’s immense potential by helping them enter school ready to learn. We cultivate lifelong learners by immersing children in enriching guided experiences and discovery-oriented approaches. Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR), and more, our dedicated professionals work with families and caregivers to promote children’s well-being. These enable us to strengthen key areas including motor development, cognitive development, social and emotional development, language and communication skills, and problem-solving skills.

Partner with us to help empower communities to rise above generational poverty with comprehensive early childhood education and holistic family support. We have career opportunities available in several counties throughout the Savannah River Region.

ECS4Kids offers a competitive benefit package which includes:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 403(b) plan with 5% employer match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Long-term & short-term disability insurance
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Generous paid time off
• Career development
• Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Cook is responsible for ordering, preparing, serving and documenting nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA/CACFP guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards. This role ensures the kitchen and food service areas are maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition. The Cook supports the overall goals of the program by promoting healthy eating habits and contributing to a positive, collaborative center environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Meal Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to approved menus and USDA/CACFP requirements.
• Accommodate special dietary needs and allergies as directed.
• Ensure timely delivery of meals to classrooms and maintain appropriate portion sizes.

Kitchen Operations & Sanitation

• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.
• Follow all food safety procedures including proper food handling, storage, and temperature control.
• Complete daily temperature logs and sanitation checklists.
• Wash dishes and clean kitchen surfaces daily in accordance with health department standards.

Inventory & Ordering

• Monitor food and supply inventory; submit requisitions for needed items.
• Receive and inspect food deliveries for quality and accuracy.
• Maintain stock of milk and paper products.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate records of meals served, food temperatures, and inventory.
• Submit required documentation to the Nutrition Specialist or Center Manager.
• Review inspection reports and implement corrective actions as needed.

Team Collaboration

• Communicate regularly with center staff to coordinate meal service and classroom needs.
• Participate in staff meetings and required training sessions.
• Support classroom as needed.

(These job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties. Employees will be required to perform other related duties as required.)

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 6 months of related food service experience preferred.
• Knowledge of USDA/CACFP meal patterns and food safety standards preferred.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
• Knowledge of proper cleaning techniques and food safety practices.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment.

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Complete TB screening & physical before having direct contact with children. Renew every 2 years.
• Current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.
• At least 10 hours of state-approved training completed within the first 90 days of employment, if applicable.
• 25 hours of annual training?(January–December) in topics related to nutrition and food safety, health and sanitat