OPEN COMPETITIVE JOB TITLE: Cook DEPARTMENT: Head Start CLASS: NE2 SALARY: $14.64 (DOE) OPENING: AUGUST 07, 2024 CLOSING: OPEN UNTIL FILLED JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of Management of the Head Start, the Cook is responsible for the ordering, preparing, serving and documentation of meals and snacks. This position includes following menus and all phases of kitchen operations including inventory control. This position contributes to the smooth operations and functioning of the kitchen in adherence to health and food safety codes and the strict cleanliness of the kitchen and food services and storage areas. The position may prepare foods for preschool children following the USDA/CACFP standards. Position may involve reassignment to various kitchens/centers as deemed necessary for program operations. Duties and Responsibilities:
- Prepares and serves food and assists in any food related activities as directed and menus as approved by registered dietitian/nutritionist including the preparation of food to meet the needs of children with special needs or disabilities.
- Oversees maintenance of inventory for all necessary supplies, food and equipment used for food services operations.
- Oversees the processing and storage of food and food related items as they are delivered.
- Oversees full kitchen operations and may supervise additional staff or volunteer assistance (depending on size and scope of workload).
- Prepares and serves all meals as planned, paying attention to food presentation and freshness.
- Ensures that standardized recipes are followed and appropriated quantities of food are prepared and served in accordance with the CACFP meal requirements.
- Monitors the acceptance of menu items by children in the program and makes recommendation for menu changes accordingly.
- Solicits menu ideas from head Start families to ensure that the menu is reflective of local culture and that the menu items are familiar to children in addition to offering new foods for children and families to try.
- Acts as a resource and a team member with program staff to plan food-related experiences and presented in a manner that facilitates family style meal services for children and classroom staff in a Head start classroom and individual needs are met for toddlers.
- Ensures that dishes are returned to the kitchen.
- Supports staff and parents in preparing meals and snacks for meetings, planning sessions and other special events as requested and approved by the center supervisor, Program Director, and/or designated Management Team.
- Ensures that dishes and equipment are cleaned and stored for the next meal.
- Responsible for proper receiving, inventory, storage of food and cleanup of kitchen and equipment.
- Notifies Nutritional Coordinator, Program Director, or designated Management Team of any safety or health issues or concerns.
- Contributes articles, recipe ideas, etc., to Head Start newsletter on a regular basis.
- Responsible for the period purchasing and regular maintenance of food to ensure quality, cost control and adequate inventory. Receives and accounts for food deliveries. Responsible for dating food and monitoring dates on food to ensure proper rotation.
- Documents in the menu book, following required USDA/CACFP documentation, food purchased, prepared and served.
- Comprehends the importance to Active Supervision and implements all 6 strategies daily.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
- The ideal applicant will be at least 18 years of age and has food preparations experience and able to comply with any state food permit/health requirements at all times.
- Experience in quantity food preparation and inventory control is preferred.
- One to three years of kitchen, food prep, or relative field experience preferred.
- One year experience of working with Child and Adult Care Food Program or food related grants and kitchen experience preferred.
- Must be willing to successfully pass a background investigation and obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card.
- ServSafe Certification will be required within 3 months.
- Food Handlers Card or ability to obtain one within the first month of hire.
- Ability to follow directives and communicate both written and orally.
- Must be able to receive constructive criticism in a positive manner.
- Must be able to work a shift that reflects a typical Monday-Friday, with some evenings and weekend work contingent on operation needs and demand.
- Must exhibit patience and tact when communicating with children, families, staff, management, referral sources and the public.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.
- Must be able to pass or meet tribal insurance policy and procedures.
- Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
- Must have a high school diploma or GED.
Submit a completed Employment Application to: Human Resources Department, PO Box 179, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, fax (928) ###-####, or call (928) ###-####/2216 for information. To be considered for employment, the Human Resources Department must receive a completed application by 5:00 PM on the closing date. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of a completed employment application. All applications and supporting documentation submitted becomes the property of the Human Resources Department, please keep copies for your own reference. PREFERENCE: All applicants are considered without regard to age, sex, race, national origin, religion, marital status, or physical disability. However, preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with Public Law 88-355, Section 703 (702-71) and public Law 93-638, Section 7B. THE HUALAPAI TRIBE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER/PROGRAM Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities