Childcare Provider/Cook

Job Title: Daycare Center Cook

Location: Fun Times Daycare and Pre-School (Lakewood, WA 98499)

Position Summary

The Daycare Center Cook at Fun Times Daycare and Pre-School is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with FTDC policies and applicable regulatory standards. This role ensures that all meals meet established nutritional guidelines while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. The cook also manages food purchasing within budget and supports overall program operations.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Plan, prepare, and clean up breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for children in a daycare setting
• Ensure meals are nutritious, balanced, and age-appropriate
• Prepare and serve meals according to schedules set by the supervisor
• Assist with serving children during mealtimes as needed

Menu Planning & Nutrition

• Develop weekly menus for snacks and lunches based on a yearly rotation
• Submit menus to supervisor for approval, ensuring compliance with nutritional and budget requirements
• Maintain nutritional standards as identified by the supervisor

Purchasing & Budgeting

• Create weekly shopping lists based on approved menus
• Purchase food and supplies while adhering to budget guidelines
• Utilize cost-effective purchasing strategies without compromising food quality

Compliance & Recordkeeping

• Record daily food production and distribution to meet local and state requirements, including TDA and USDA Food and Nutrition (CACFP) guidelines
• Ensure compliance with:
• HHSC/DFPS Child Care Licensing Standards
• USDA Food and Nutrition-CACFP
• NAEYC Program Standards
• Follow all FTDC policies and procedures

Health, Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen in accordance with health department regulations
• Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices
• Ensure safe food temperatures and prevent cross-contamination

Collaboration & Support

• Work closely with staff and supervisors to support meal service and program needs
• Observe student teachers during scheduled cooking examinations and provide feedback as required

Required Qualifications & Certifications

• Must have a cleared portable background check
• Completion of 30-hour Childcare Basics training
• Current TB test clearance
• Valid CPR/First Aid certification
• Current Food Handler’s certification
• Completion of USDA Food and Nutrition (CACFP) training
• Knowledge of child nutrition and meal planning
• Strong organizational and budgeting skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Professional Development Requirements

• Complete all required annual local, state, and national professional training hours in accordance with FTDC policies and regulatory standards

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.50 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Referral program

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• School/daycare, institutional kitchen, high volume cooking: 3 years (Required)
• Early childhood education: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Background clarence and all necessary classes through MERIT (Required)
• 30h STARS/CPR/ First aid / serv safe food handlers (Required)

Work Location: In person