Child Care Cook Part-Time No Nights or Weekends

Job Description

Job Description

Child Care Cook
Thrive Early Learning Center | Clarksville, TN
MondayFriday | 6:30 AM12:30 PM

Join a Team Where You Can Make a Difference Every Day

Thrive Early Learning Center is a high-quality early childhood program dedicated to helping children grow in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. We believe children thrive when they are loved, supported, and given opportunities to explore, learn, and flourish.

We are seeking a dependable, organized, and caring Child Care Cook who enjoys serving children and takes pride in preparing healthy meals in a clean, safe kitchen environment. This role is essential to the health and well-being of the children we serve.

Why Join Thrive?

• Supportive and positive team culture

• Meaningful work serving children and families

• MondayFriday schedule with no evenings or weekends

• Paid training and professional development opportunities

• Opportunity to make a lasting impact in children's lives

Position Summary

The Child Care Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years while ensuring full compliance with Tennessee Child Care Licensing regulations, CACFP requirements, food safety standards, and allergy protocols.

Key Responsibilities

Meal Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks according to approved menus and schedules.

• Follow USDA meal pattern requirements and CACFP guidelines.

• Ensure meals are served on time and in appropriate portions for each age group.

• Maintain attractive and child-friendly meal presentation.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene procedures.

• Monitor and document food temperatures.

• Properly store, label, rotate, and date food items.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, pantry, refrigerators, and storage areas.

• Prevent cross-contamination through proper food handling and cleaning practices.

Allergy & Dietary Management

• Strictly adhere to all food allergy restrictions and individualized care plans.

• Review classroom allergy postings daily.

• Safely accommodate approved dietary modifications and special nutrition requirements.

• Communicate proactively with administration regarding dietary concerns or menu adjustments.

Inventory & Recordkeeping

• Maintain accurate meal counts and required CACFP documentation.

• Assist with menu planning and food ordering.

• Monitor inventory levels and report supply needs promptly.

• Help manage food costs while minimizing waste.

Team Collaboration

• Communicate professionally with directors, teachers, and families when appropriate.

• Support center events, celebrations, and special activities.

• Assist with other center needs as assigned.

• Model Thrive's values of Build Belonging, Lead with Love, Protect Childhood, and Grow Together.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be at least 18 years old.

• Ability to pass all Tennessee Child Care Licensing requirements, including:
  • Background check

  • Physical examination

  • Drug screening

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Preferred

• Previous experience cooking in a child care center, school, cafeteria, restaurant, or similar setting.

• Knowledge of CACFP requirements.

• Understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, and safe food preparation practices.

• ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain certification.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is:

• Dependable and self-motivated

• Organized and detail-oriented

• Passionate about serving children

• Able to work independently and efficiently

• Committed to maintaining a clean, safe kitchen

• Positive, professional, and team-oriented

Schedule

MondayFriday
6:30 AM12:30 PM minimum

Additional hours may occasionally be available based on center needs and willingness to work directly with children.

Apply Today

If you enjoy preparing healthy meals, creating a welcoming environment, and making a difference in the lives of children, we'd love to meet you.