Daycare Chef

Job Description

Job Description

The Carrollton Prep Academy Learning Center is seeking a dependable, organized, and dedicated Part-Time Daycare Chef to prepare and serve nutritious, age-appropriate meals for children ages 6 weeks through school age.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to food safety, cleanliness, nutrition, and the overall well-being of children.

Our center participates in the  USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) . The Daycare Chef is responsible for ensuring that all meals and food service operations comply with CACFP meal patterns, USDA guidelines, Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) requirements, and applicable food safety regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Meal Preparation and Service

• Prepare nutritious, balanced, age-appropriate meals and snacks according to approved menus.
• Follow USDA CACFP meal pattern requirements, including appropriate food components, portion sizes, and approved substitutions.
• Prepare meals for children with documented food allergies, dietary restrictions, and special nutritional needs according to approved instructions.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served according to the center's established meal schedule.
• Maintain consistent food quality, freshness, and presentation.
• Coordinate with classroom teachers to ensure accurate meal counts and timely food service.

2. CACFP / USDA Program Compliance

• Follow all USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) requirements and center procedures.
• Prepare and serve meals according to approved CACFP menus and required meal components.
• Maintain accurate daily meal production records, including quantities prepared and served, as assigned.
• Assist with food inventory, purchasing documentation, menu records, and other required CACFP documentation.
• Follow approved procedures for meal substitutions and dietary accommodations.
• Cooperate with CACFP sponsor representatives, monitoring visits, inspections, and compliance reviews.
• Complete required CACFP and food safety training.

3. Food Safety and Sanitation

• Follow all applicable food handling, preparation, storage, and sanitation requirements.
• Practice proper handwashing and use gloves and utensils appropriately to prevent contamination.
• Prevent cross-contamination by following safe food preparation procedures.
• Monitor and document food temperatures when required.
• Properly label, date, rotate, and store food using first-in, first-out (FIFO) procedures.
• Clean and sanitize countertops, preparation areas, sinks, equipment, utensils, and food service surfaces.
• Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, cookware, and kitchen equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready kitchen at all times.
• Report equipment malfunctions, food safety concerns, and supply shortages immediately.

4. Kitchen Operations and Inventory

• Maintain an organized inventory of food, supplies, and kitchen materials.
• Notify administration of items needed for upcoming meals.
• Minimize food waste while maintaining required meal portions.
• Assist with receiving, checking, and properly storing food deliveries.
• Maintain kitchen organization and complete daily opening and closing responsibilities.
• Follow center policies regarding food purchases, storage, and use of kitchen equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in food preparation, childcare food service, school nutrition, or a commercial kitchen preferred.
• Knowledge of basic food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices.
• Familiarity with USDA CACFP requirements preferred; willingness to complete required training is essential.
• Ability to follow written menus, recipes, portion guidelines, and food preparation instructions.
• Ability to maintain accurate food service documentation.
• Strong organizational skills, reliability, punctuality, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and communicate professionally with staff and administration.
• Must meet applicable DECAL employment, background check, and training requirements.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to stand for extended periods, bend, reach, lift and carry kitchen supplies, and safely operate standard kitchen equipment. The position requires maintaining a clean and safe food preparation environment throughout the scheduled shift.

Work Schedule and Expectations

This is a part-time position requiring approximately 4.5 hours per day, five days per week (approximately 22.5 hours weekly).

The schedule will be established according to the center's meal preparation and service needs.

The employee is expected to:

• Arrive on time and be prepared to begin assigned duties.
• Complete meal preparation, service, cleaning, and documentation within scheduled hours.
• Maintain a professional and cooperative attitude.
• Follow all center policies and procedures.
• Protect the health and safety of children through responsible food service practices.

The Carrollton Prep Academy Learning Center (CPA) is a growing early childhood education center located in Carrollton, Georgia. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

At CPA, we believe that quality childcare begins with passionate, dedicated educators and support staff who understand the importance of building strong foundations during a child's earliest years.

Our Legacy Team is built on professionalism, teamwork, accountability, compassion, and a shared commitment to excellence. We value employees who demonstrate initiative, embrace professional growth, and take pride in making a positive difference in the lives of children and families.

We are seeking dependable, enthusiastic individuals who share our vision of delivering exceptional childcare and early learning experiences.

Company Description

The Carrollton Prep Academy Learning Center (CPA) is a growing early childhood education center located in Carrollton, Georgia. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.\r\n\r\nAt CPA, we believe that quality childcare begins with passionate, dedicated educators and support staff who understand the importance of building strong foundations during a child's earliest years.\r\n\r\nOur Legacy Team is built on professionalism, teamwork, accountability, compassion, and a shared commitment to excellence. We value employees who demonstrate initiative, embrace professional growth, and take pride in making a positive difference in the lives of children and families.\r\n\r\nWe are seeking dependable, enthusiastic individuals who share our vision of delivering exceptional childcare and early learning experiences.