Cook/Bus Driver

Lead Cook & Bus Driver – International Kids Academy (IKA)

Pay Range: $14–$15 per hour (based on experience)

Schedule: Full-time

Reports To: Center Director

Position Overview

The Lead Cook & Bus Driver plays a key role in keeping our children safe, nourished, and transported with care. This position combines daily meal preparation under CACFP and food handler safety guidelines with responsibility for driving a 15‑passenger bus for home pickups, home drop‑offs, and school routes. Ongoing training and support will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Kitchen Management

• Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to CACFP meal patterns.
• Follow all Food Handler Safety Guidelines, including proper food storage, temperature control, and sanitation.
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and ensure all equipment is sanitized daily.
• Complete daily food production records and meal counts accurately.
• Ensure all children are served every food item, even if they refuse, per CACFP requirements.
• Communicate with the Director regarding inventory needs and kitchen supplies.

Transportation Duties

• Safely operate a 15‑passenger bus for:
• Morning home pickups
• Afternoon home drop‑offs
• School route transportation
• Follow all state and center transportation policies.
• Maintain a clean, safe bus environment.
• Conduct daily pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections.
• Ensure all children are properly buckled and accounted for during transport.
• Communicate professionally with families during pickup/drop‑off.

Team Support & Center Operations

• Assist staff as needed during downtime (classroom support, cleaning, transitions).
• Help maintain a positive, team‑focused environment.
• Follow all sanitation expectations, including sweeping, mopping, and cleaning schedules.
• Participate in ongoing training for CACFP, transportation, and safety.
• Learn and use children’s first and last names for CACFP monitoring visits.
• Support communication with families when needed.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Ability to safely operate a 15‑passenger bus (training provided).
• Current Food Handler’s Certification or willingness to obtain.
• Experience in childcare kitchens, CACFP, or school food service preferred.
• Ability to lift to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Work Environment

This role is fast‑paced, child‑centered, and highly collaborative. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, and passionate about serving children and families.

Pay: $14.00 - $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Referral program

Work Location: In person