Lead Cook

SUMMARY: The position of the Lead Cook regardless of race, creed, or disability has the responsibility of planning the daily menus for one-half to two thirds of the children’s daily nutritional requirements in the classroom which includes breakfast, lunch and snack. All menus must be submitted to the staff nutritionist for prior approval to ensure USDA compliance. In addition the Lead Cook must be able to demonstrate the ability to provide oversight for the food service activities as outlined this job description.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Signs in/out daily when arriving or departing from all Head Start sites.

1. Ensure timely dissemination of monthly pre approved menus to all Head Start sites.

1. Assist site cooks with the planning of special menus for special events to be attended by parents, volunteers, and community partners.
2. Ability to:

1. Provide consultation to ensure that all Head Start cooks prepare meals in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Food Service and Sanitation Code.

1. Maintain ongoing contact with the Staff Nutritionist to discuss types of food desired for children with food allergies and special nutritional needs.

1. Maintain primary responsibility for food orders for all sites utilizing vendors who have been approved by the Springfield Urban League.

1. Negotiate matters relating to the delivery and quality of goods received if determined to be unacceptable by site cooks.

1. Order all utensils and paper supplies as requested by each Head Start site. Compare pricing and ensure that purchases are cost effective.

5. All cooks must maintain a sanitary and pleasant atmosphere in the kitchen. The kitchen must be left clean at all times. This includes items such as cleaning the stove, refrigerator, cabinets, sweeping the floors, etc. They must be wiped and sanitized daily.

6. All cooks with the assistance of the Staff Nutritionist must prepare meals for children requiring special diets as requested by the Head Start Nurse.

7. Contribute to maintaining full compliance of the Head Start food safety and sanitation standards.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Must be able to prepare attractive and nutritional meals for preschool children.

1. Must be neat and clean in appearance and wear a hairnet at all times .

1. Must have reliable transportation.

1. Must be punctual, cooperative, attend staff meetings, as well as in-service training and workshops held on and away from the work site.

1. Must have a pleasant disposition in working with children, staff, and parents.

1. Must have received their Food Service Sanitation Certificate.

1. Ability to pass a medical examination certifying freedom from communicable diseases and illegal substances.

1. Must meet the Illinois Department of Human Services Standards for working with Preschool children.

1. Must be willing to cooperate with parents and staff members and have a positive attitude toward directions.

The Springfield Urban League, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.