New Hope Christian School is a private Christ-centered school serving families throughout the Fox Valley area with children in preschool through 8th grade. God, the Creator of heaven and earth, cannot be separated from history, literature, mathematics, science, or any other academic discipline. Christian education must strive to acknowledge, understand, and nurture each individual's God-given abilities.

Contact Information for all positions

NHCScareers@newhopeconnect.org

Daycare Cook

I. Position summary

The Daycare Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks to children at Little Eagles Learning Center, adhering to USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines. This role ensures a safe and hygienic kitchen environment, while accommodating special dietary needs and fostering healthy eating habits. 

Hours: Monday – Friday 7:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

II. Key responsibilities

• Menu Planning and Meal Preparation:
• Plan and prepare balanced meals (breakfast, lunch, and snacks) in accordance with USDA/CACFP requirements for portion sizes and food groups.
• Develop menus that exceed state and USDA requirements while accommodating dietary restrictions, allergies, and special meal plans for individual children.
• Utilize an 8-week cycle menu, making adjustments as needed.
• Food Safety and Sanitation:
• Ensure all food is prepared in compliance with USDA and Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) regulations.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen, adhering to local health department and DCF standards.
• Implement proper food handling techniques, including washing raw fruits and vegetables, avoiding cross-contamination, and cooking to safe internal temperatures.
• Maintain refrigerators at or below 40°F and freezers at or below 0°F.
• Follow proper dishwashing procedures, including sanitizing dishes and utensils after each use.
• Inventory and Ordering:
• Manage food inventory and supplies, ensuring accurate records of food usage and expenditures.
• Place orders for food and kitchen supplies, considering future needs and budgetary constraints.
• Organize and store food items properly, including labeling containers with contents and dates.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Collaborate with administrative and classroom staff to coordinate meal delivery and ensure nutritional needs are met.
• Inform staff members about children's food allergies and other relevant dietary information.
• Recordkeeping:
• Maintain accurate records of menus, food temperatures, inventory, and meal counts for audits and inspections.
• Complete and submit required CACFP paperwork accurately and on time.
• Other Duties:
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development related to nutrition and food safety.
• Assist in classrooms as needed, modeling positive nutrition practices. 

III. Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 18 years of age.
• Relevant experience in food service or quantity cooking, preferably in an institutional setting.
• Knowledge of USDA's Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) requirements.
• Knowledge of appropriate food service sanitation methods.
• Ability to read, follow, and adapt recipes.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Must pass required state and company background checks.
• Possess or obtain a valid Food Handler's Card or ServSafe certification.
• Completion of 4 hours of food and nutrition training.
• Completion of 1 hour of continuing education annually.
• Meet the requirements to be deemed "Fit and Qualified" by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. 

Submit a resume and two references to nhcscareers@newhopeconnect.org