Childcare Cook

Childcare Food Service Coordinator Job Description


Location: York, PA - Werner Early Learning Childcare Center
Classification: Non-exempt, Full-time
Reports to: Vice President of Childcare Services
Date: February 6, 2026


Position Summary


Responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for infants, toddlers, and preschool children in accordance with Pennsylvania childcare regulations, Child Care Works/Subsidy nutrition requirements, organizational policies, and food safety standards. Oversee menu planning, purchasing, inventory management, food preparation, kitchen sanitation, and support healthy eating habits within the early learning program.


Essential Functions

• Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack each day.

• Develop monthly menus that provide nutritious, age-appropriate meals.

• Order or shop for food, beverages, paper products, and kitchen supplies.

• Maintain inventory and rotate stock using First In, First Out (FIFO) practices.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen.

• Wash, sanitize, and store dishes, cookware, utensils, and equipment.

• Maintain food temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and required kitchen records.

• Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations.

• Communicate effectively with classroom staff regarding meals, allergies, and dietary needs.

• Support classroom nutrition activities and family events when requested.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, dietary needs, medical information, and organizational operations.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Experience preparing meals in a commercial kitchen, childcare center, school, healthcare facility, restaurant, or similar setting preferred.

• ServSafe Food Handler or ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is required. Applicants who are not currently certified must obtain certification within 30 days of hire. Certification costs are the employee's responsibility and will be reimbursed after six (6) months of continuous employment while remaining in good standing.

• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, storage, and temperature control procedures.

• Ability to prepare nutritious meals and snacks for groups of young children.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet meal service schedules.

• Ability to communicate professionally with children, families, staff, vendors, and volunteers.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Must successfully complete all required Pennsylvania childcare clearances, health assessments, and annual professional development requirements.

• Valid Driver's License: Must possess and maintain a valid, clean driver's license.

• Reliable Personal Vehicle: Must have a registered, well-maintained personal vehicle for periodic business use (mileage reimbursement provided).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience planning menus and purchasing food for groups.

• Knowledge of child nutrition and age-appropriate meal planning.

• Experience accommodating food allergies and special dietary needs.

• Experience working in early childhood education, school nutrition, healthcare, or institutional food service setting.

Core Competencies

• Food Safety & Sanitation

• Menu Planning

• Inventory Management

• Planning & Organization

• Time Management

• Communication

• Dependability

• Teamwork

• Attention to Detail

• Child-Focused Service

Performance Expectations

• Meals are prepared and served on schedule each day.

• Menus are planned in advance and support healthy eating.

• Kitchen meets sanitation and food safety standards.

• Food inventory is maintained to prevent shortages and minimize waste.

• Purchases remain within budget.

• Required documentation is accurate and completed on time.

• Demonstrates professionalism, reliability, teamwork, and positive communication.

• Maintains required certifications and professional development.

• Identifies opportunities to improve kitchen efficiency, nutrition quality, and food safety.

• Supports the mission, vision, and core values of Children's Aid Society by contributing to a safe, healthy, nurturing, and welcoming environment where children, families, and staff are respected and valued.

Physical Demands


Requires standing for extended periods, walking, bending, reaching, lifting up to 50 pounds, and safely operating commercial kitchen equipment.


Work Environment


Work is performed in an early childhood education setting with frequent interaction with children and staff while using commercial kitchen equipment and cleaning products.


Disclaimer


The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. Children's Aid Society reserves the right to modify or assign additional duties as organizational needs evolve. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. This job description does not create an employment contract.