Cook

Job Description

Job Description

Salary: $14.00-$18.00

Job Title: Cook/Custodian Greater Peace Child Development Center

Organization: Greater Peace Community Development Corporation
Program: Greater Peace Child Development Center
Location:650 Jeter Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801
Reports To: Center Director
Employment Type: Full Time

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children enrolled in Greater Peace Child Development Center. This position ensures full compliance with theChild and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), food safety regulations, and organizational policies while supporting the overall mission of promoting healthy development and food security for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

Meal Planning & Preparation

• Prepare and serve meals and snacks that meet CACFP meal pattern requirements.
• Follow approved menus and portion sizes as required by CACFP.
• Assist with menu planning that is nutritious, culturally responsive, and child-friendly.
• Accommodate documented food allergies, medical needs, and special dietary requirements.

CACFP Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain accurate CACFP documentation, including production records, meal counts, and temperature logs.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served within CACFP timeframes.
• Support program audits, reviews, and monitoring visits.
• Retain required food service records in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen in accordance with ServSafe and local health department standards.
• Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.
• Conduct daily cleaning of kitchen equipment, utensils, and food service areas.
• Monitor food temperatures and storage to prevent contamination.

Inventory & Purchasing

• Assist with ordering food and supplies within budget guidelines, with occasional in-person shopping required
• Track inventory and minimize waste.
• Properly store food to ensure freshness and safety.

Collaboration & Program Support

• Communicate effectively with program leadership and staff regarding meal schedules and needs.
• Support special events and summer programming as needed.
• Model professionalism and positive interactions with children and staff.

Required Qualifications

• ServSafe Manager Certification (Required)
• Minimum 2 years of experience
• Experience preparing meals for children in a childcare, school, or community-based setting
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and nutritional guidelines
• Knowledge of sanitization, cleaning child care centers, and maintaining a welcoming environment.
• Ability to maintain accurate records, prepare menus, complete production reports, conduct inventory, and comply with program requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience overseeing a small kitchen and preparing healthy and safe meals to children
• Knowledge of state childcare licensing requirements
• Knowledge of CACFP requirements
• Experience working with diverse populations and community-based organizations

Skills & Abilities

• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Attention to detail and compliance
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Greater Peace Community Development Corporation

Background Check

• CAN Background Check Required through DHR
• Fingerprint Background Check Required (ABI/FBI)

Benefits

• Two paid weeks of vacation (week of Christmas and week of Spring Break)
• Paid Holidays
• Seven annual sick days
• 2 unpaid days off
• Off on your birthday
• Sick leave begins 30 days after start date, vacation begins 90 days after start date, holidays begin immediately, birthday off after 1 year of employment.

Work Schedule

• 7:00 am-3:30 pm (30-minute lunch-off clock)

Compensation

• $14-$18 per hour

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Greater Peace Community Development Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.