Head Cook

Position: Head Cook
Role Type: Full-Time/Hourly
Schedule: 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday - Friday
Reports to: Daycare Director

About Mustard Seed Christian Daycare
Mustard Seed Christian Daycare has grown from a small vision into a vibrant ministry serving families throughout Vermilion County and the surrounding area. Located in the former Rossville-Alvin Grade School in Rossville, Illinois, Mustard Seed provides a nurturing, faith-based environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

We serve over 90 children, offering both childcare and preschool programs. Through a combination of structured learning, creative play, and spiritual development, the daycare supports each child’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual growth. Daily activities include interactive classroom learning, Bible stories and lessons, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and special events that bring families and the community together.

Rooted in Christian values and committed to excellence, Mustard Seed continues to be a trusted place where seeds of faith, kindness, and knowledge are planted every day.

Role Summary
The Head Cook is responsible for preparing and delivering meals, ordering food and kitchen supplies, ensuring full compliance with USDA/CACFP guidelines, maintaining kitchen safety standards, and supporting consistent, efficient kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Food Preparation & Meal Service
• Prepare and serve meals according to approved menus and USDA guidelines
• Prepare milk and food items according to USDA guidelines
• Ensure all classroom carts are fully stocked and ready for service
• Communicate proactively with leadership if delays or issues arise
• Ensure meals are delivered on time:
• Breakfast: 8:00 a.m.
• Food Program Compliance- Follow all USDA/CACFP requirements for: meal components, portion sizes and milk service
• Maintain accurate records and logs as required
• Participate in required training (DCFS, ISBE, Health Department)
• Kitchen Operations & Daily Tasks
• Complete all kitchen preparation and clean-up tasks including:
• Dishwashing (wash, rinse, sanitize)
• Preparing sinks and sanitation stations
• Preparing delivery carts with all required supplies
• Collecting carts and cleaning equipment after meals
• Maintain organized and efficient workflow throughout the day
• Ordering of kitchen supplies (paper products, food, etc.)
• Health & Safety Standards
• Log appliance and storage temperatures upon arrival, mid-day, before leaving.
• Maintain sanitation standards at all times
• Ensure proper food storage, handling, and cleanliness
• Complete weekly deep cleaning tasks:
• refrigerator cleaning and sanitizing
• stainless steel cleaning
• garbage can disinfecting
• Kitchen Maintenance & Cleanliness
• Sweep floors throughout the day and mop floors at close
• Take out trash regularly and at end of day
• Wash towels and dishcloths daily, fold before leaving for the day
• Keep kitchen clean, organized, and inspection-ready
• Follows all health, safety, and food program requirements without exception
• Maintains a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen
• Demonstrates reliability and timeliness in meal preparation
• Communicates clearly with leadership and staff
• Operates with professionalism and consistency
• This role must demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment aligned with the organization’s mission and values.
• Education & Qualifications
• Minimum
• High School Diploma or GED
• Preferred
• Food Service Certification or coursework in nutrition/food service
• Deep understanding of CACFP - Child and Adult Care Food Program
• Experience
• 1–3 years experience in food preparation, kitchen, or childcare food service
• Certifications
• Food Handler’s Permit or Food Safety Certification (required or must obtain)
• CPR/First Aid (preferred)
• Must successfully complete all required background checks in accordance with Illinois DCFS regulations prior to employment
• Knowledge
• Understanding of CACFP guidelines (preferred or willing to learn)
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required background checks and clearances. Failure to obtain or maintain required clearances may result in withdrawal of offer or termination of employment.

Mustard Seed Christian Daycare is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable laws.

As a Christian daycare, we incorporate faith-based values into our daily environment and expect staff to support and uphold these values in their work.

Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Food handling: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Food Handler Certification (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Rossville, IL 60963 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person