Cook Aide

Full-time Description As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives since 1958. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 18,000 people annually. Together we:
Nurture development. Foster resilience. Cultivate well-being.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Cook Aide to join our team of talented professionals.

As a Cook Aide in the Head Start/Early Head Start Program, you will be responsible for the following:

Assist in maintaining a clean and safe environment and nutritional practices that support and contribute to healthy well-being of children. Adhere to and maintain compliance with all The Guidance Center, Office of Head Start Performance Standards, State of Michigan Child and Adult Care Food Program and any other local, state and/or agency policies and procedures.

• Prepare and serve meals according to planned menus and nutritional and CACFP guidelines.
• Adhere to sanitation and safety procedures i.e. proper food temperatures, storage and preparation guidelines.
• Order foods and supplies from approved vendors to meet the needs of the menu and/or site.
• Assist in receiving orders from vendors and ensure that proper items have been delivered.
• Operate, clean and maintain all food service equipment.
• Wash dishes, pots, pans and utensils using approved sanitation methods.
• Deliver meals from kitchen to classrooms.

• Assist in planning menus that meet each child’s daily nutritional needs including children with special dietary needs and/or restrictions.
• Ability to complete required reports and maintain related documentation according to CACFP guidelines including, but not limited to, invoice breakdowns and end of the month inventory.

• Attending a minimum of 16 hours of professional development training annually on topics relevant to job responsibilities.
• Maintain and update individual Professional Development Binder.
• Develop and achieve a minimum of three professional development goals annually.
• Attend staff, agency, staffing and other meetings as required.

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience in professional food service operations.
• Knowledge of appropriate food preparation methods and sanitation practices.
• Demonstrate cultural competency and sensitivity and respect for the diverse backgrounds, needs and experiences of children, families, community volunteers and TGC employees.
• Pass a physical examination and background checks before hire.

The Guidance Center believes that our team members are our most valuable resources, and we invest in them accordingly. We offer our employees a competitive salary, flexible scheduling opportunities, a team-oriented work environment and much more!