Nutrition Provider; Cook

JOB SUMMARY:

Acts as a vital support function in meeting the nutritional needs of program-eligible pre-school-aged children. This role is Responsible for the daily operation of a Head Start kitchen and the preparation of nutritious, economical, and edible meals in accordance with USDA requirements. As a builder of health and wellness, the position works cooperatively with staff, parents, and the Nutrition Specialist, demonstrating integrity, respect always, and teamwork in every meal served.

• Prepares and serves nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and supplements) in proper, waste‑free quantities. Demonstrates a service-oriented mindset and exceeds expectations by ensuring food is both healthy and appealing to children.
• Develops and maintains cycle menus in accordance with USDA standards. Acts as a partner by listening to and incorporating input from the Nutrition Specialist, parents, and colleagues.
• Collaborates with center staff and volunteers to integrate nutrition education into the curriculum. Acts as an ally in the classroom to create food-related learning activities that spark curiosity in children.

• Maintains kitchen equipment and workspace in clean, sanitary, and safe conditions. Takes responsibility for preventive maintenance, proper storage, and waste disposal, ensuring that high safety expectations are consistently met.
• Maintains deep knowledge of USDA Child Care Food Program regulations. Operates with honesty and consistency to ensure full compliance with all policies and procedures.
• Maintains accurate records of meal participation, inventory, vendor purchases, and USDA commodities. Ensure all documentation is honest, accountable, and ready for review.

• Identifies equipment needs and recommends Innovative solutions to enhance kitchen efficiency and safety. Approaches challenges as a problem solver who is open to new ways of working.
• Contributes to pest control and environmental safety measures. Remains adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of the center and the kitchen environment.

• Assists in planning parent nutrition and consumer education events. Fosters Connections and ensures that all families feel welcome and supported.
• Participates in ongoing training and professional development. Approaches all Head Start duties as an innovator committed to excellence and the agency's mission.

• Effectively utilizes technology, including Kid Kare software, for inventory and meal tracking. Demonstrates a desire to learn new hardware and software systems.

• Performs other Head Start/Early Head Start duties required to accomplish the Head Start/Early Head Start mission.
• This position requires frequent travel to off-site locations.

• Work responsibilities are performed in a commercially furnished, licensed childcare facility. You must be physically fit to stand for hours while preparing meals, reach above the head and below the knee, and be able to lift forty-five (45) pounds.

• High school graduate or GED.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Food Handler’s permit.
• Must meet all state and funding source requirements, including mandatory fingerprinting and background checks.
• Possession of a valid Oklahoma State driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
• Demonstration of good health and high standards of personal hygiene (critical for food service).
• No physical restrictions that would preclude the performance of assigned kitchen and lifting duties.
• Previous experience working specifically with young children.
• A minimum of two (2) years of paid experience in food preparation using basic recipe ingredients.
• A willingness to attend continued career field training to stay updated on best practices
• Ability to consistently meet all established Work Environment standards.

• Formal training and experience in quantity cooking, nutrition, and kitchen/food management.