Kitchen Manager

Join Our North Star Team! North Star Child Care Center is looking for a dependable, organized, and enthusiastic Kitchen Manager to join our team! Our ideal candidate is someone who enjoys preparing nutritious, kid-friendly meals and takes pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen. As our Kitchen Manager, you will play an important role in supporting the health, development, and overall well-being of the children in our care. We are looking for someone who can work independently, manage their time effectively, and bring a positive attitude to our team each day.

Key Responsibilities

Meal Preparation & Nutrition

• Plan and prepare nutritious, age-appropriate breakfasts, lunches, and snacks for children ranging from infants through school age.
• Follow Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) meal pattern requirements and applicable Iowa HHS child care licensing standards.
• Accommodate documented food allergies, dietary restrictions, and special dietary needs.
• Ensure meals are prepared and served on time according to classroom schedules.
• Follow safe food preparation practices, including age-appropriate food cutting to reduce choking hazards.
• Maintain appropriate portion sizes and minimize food waste.

Kitchen Management & Food Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment.
• Follow proper food storage, labeling, temperature monitoring, and sanitation procedures.
• Wash, sanitize, and properly store dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
• Manage kitchen inventory, grocery ordering, meal planning, and food service budgets.
• Monitor food supplies and communicate purchasing needs to administration.
• Ensure compliance with applicable food safety, sanitation, and licensing requirements.
• Complete required kitchen cleaning tasks and food service documentation.

Teamwork & Communication

• Communicate effectively with classroom teachers and administration regarding meal schedules, dietary needs, and food service concerns.
• Work collaboratively with staff to ensure meals are delivered efficiently and safely.
• Maintain a positive, professional attitude and contribute to a supportive workplace environment.
• Assist with special events, celebrations, and other food-related center activities as needed.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in food preparation, cooking, or commercial kitchen operations preferred.
• Experience preparing meals for large groups or in a child care or school setting is a plus.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices.
• Familiarity with CACFP guidelines preferred; training can be provided.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities independently.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to maintain a consistent full-time schedule.
• Ability to lift, carry, stand for extended periods, and perform typical kitchen duties.
• Ability to complete required background checks and applicable food safety training.

Compensation & Benefits At North Star Child Care Center, we value our employees and recognize the important role they play in providing quality care to children and families.

This full-time position (40 hours per week) offers eligibility for:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Employee child care discount

Benefits are subject to applicable eligibility requirements and center policies. Why Work at North Star? At North Star Child Care Center, we believe that every member of our team contributes to the quality of care we provide. Our Kitchen Manager is more than someone who prepares meals - they help create a healthy, welcoming environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. If you are passionate about cooking, take pride in your work, and would enjoy being part of a child care community, we would love to hear from you! Apply today to join the North Star Child Care Center team!