Head Start Cook - OCO : Job Details

About Oswego County OpportunitiesOswego County Opportunities is a private, nonprofit human service agency serving 15,000 people each year through more than 50 programs. OCO inspires partnerships and provides services that empower people, support communities, and change lives.OCO's mission guides not only our work with the community and consumers, but with our employees as well. Employees are our most important asset, and our benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind which in turn improves the quality of life for you and your family.OCO's employee benefits include:

• 403B Deferred Annuity Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Term Life Insurance
• Paid leave (sick leave, PTO, holidays, etc.)
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance available to Full-Time staff

Job Summary:We are looking to add a Head Start Cook to our team! As a Head Start Cook you will purchase, prepare and serve food for meals and snacks for 50 - 100 children in multiple classrooms and meal schedules. Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Determines amount of food needed for meals and snacks; purchases food and kitchen supplies in a cost-effective manner.
• Prepares and serves quality meals and snacks for children and adults, (staff and volunteers) according to CACFP Regulations.
• Ensures the health and safety of children with documented food allergies/intolerances by planning and providing safe alternate foods under the direction of the Registered Dietitian and Food Service Specialist.
• Assists in menu planning and keeps accurate food service records according to CACFP requirements.
• Acts as working leader and provides guidance and day-to-day supervision of Cook Aide.
• Assures clean and sanitary conditions in the kitchen, dining areas and storage areas according to Health Department Regulations.
• Prepares and serves foods in a safe and sanitary manner; follows Health Department guidelines.
• Assists children and staff as needed during meal service.
• Maintains an emergency menu for use with substitute coverage or other emergencies; ensures adequate emergency food and related supplies which correspond to the menu are maintained.
• Assists teaching staff as necessary with Nutrition Component.
• Works cooperatively with all program staff to insure proper compliance with program requirements.
• Attends cook's meetings, total staff training center staff and building meetings.
• Participates in professional development training and meetings.
• Works cooperatively with center staff in support of special projects, such as, field trips, picnics, community events, etc.

Job Requirements:

• Must be familiar with food service and guidelines for food preparation.
• Must be able to work well with staff, pre-school children, volunteers, and parents in an open, friendly, and non-judgmental manner.
• Must exhibit good judgment and be organized.
• Must be flexible in regard to scheduling and job related duties.
• Must be a good role model to staff, children and parents; must be able to effectively provide guidance to Cook Aide and volunteers.
• Must be able to follow oral and written directions.
• Must have a valid NYS Driver's License with a good record and have access to a vehicle for job related travel; must maintain Personal Vehicle Certification under the Agency's Driving Policy.
• Must have the physical ability to stand for long periods of time and lift objects in excess of 35 lbs. regularly.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or its equivalent; and
• Must have a minimum of one year of experience in food preparation in a food service environment.
• Leadership experience and experience in quantity food preparation preferred.Full-time - 32 hours per week / 39 weeks per yearMonday to Friday - 8:30am to 2:30pmGrade 6Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.