Cook

EPIC Early Learning is seeking a dedicated and experienced Cook to join our team! EPIC is a private, nonprofit organization that has been providing high-quality early childhood educational services to the Central Washington community for over 35 years.

As a Cook, you will play a vital role in ensuring that our children receive nutritious and delicious meals that support their growth and development. You will work collaboratively with the kitchen team to plan, prepare, and serve meals in compliance with the guidelines and standards set by the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) and the USDA.

We are looking for someone passionate about cooking and promoting healthy eating habits in young children. The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of nutrition, food safety, and sanitation practices.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook meals for children in accordance with ECEAP and USDA guidelines
• Follow established recipes and portion control to ensure consistency and quality
• Monitor food storage, handling, and preparation techniques to maintain food safety and sanitation standards
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to plan weekly menus that meet nutritional requirements and accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies
• Order and maintain inventory of food and supplies
• Train kitchen staff
• Clean and maintain kitchen equipment and work areas
• Assist with planning and organizing special events or programs that involve food preparation
• Perform additional duties as assigned
• Be committed to characterizing a culture of safety within our centers, playgrounds, buses and anywhere that children may be present. Be familiar with and encourage EPICs culture of "See Something, Say Something".

Requirements

1. Speak, read, and write English capably, maintain accurate records, and be competent in basic arithmetic.

2. High School Diploma or equivalent

3. Valid Food Handler's Card

4. Experience working in a kitchen or food service setting

5. Knowledge of ECEAP and USDA guidelines for meal planning and preparation

6. Familiarity with food safety and sanitation practices

7. Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team

8. Strong communication and organizational skills

9. Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and priorities

10. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Pay Level: $17.30 Hourly (9-month position)

Work Location: (EPIC Place) 701 Superior Lane Yakima, WA 98902

Benefits

·         Medical/Dental/ Vision Plans

·         Sick Leave (5 hours per payroll)

·         Annual Leave (4 hours per payroll)

·         Paid Holidays (9)

·         Employee Assistance Program

·         Basic Life Insurance

·         403 B (Employer match after 1 year or 1,000 hours)

Conditions of Employment:

1. Prior to employment, complete a pre-employment drug screen, Tb skin test by an EPIC approved healthcare provider at no cost to the employee.
2. Pre-employment basic physical by an EPIC healthcare provider (obtain within (30) days of employment and no cost to the employee).
3. Must pass an initial and periodic background check through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF).
4. Provide proof of MMR vaccination and/ or resistance to Measles, Mumps & Rubella.
5. Current Food Handlers card (obtain the training within 30 days of employment).
6. Current First Aid/CPR card (obtain within thirty 30 days of employment).
7. Complete Childcare Basics 30 hours STARS training within 3 months of hire
8. Meet the minimum education requirements within the timeframe as stated in the performance standards.
9. Complete Child Abuse and Neglect training and all other mandated training.
10. CEO Approval.