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Child Care Center Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Learning Care Group

Child Care Center Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to ...

Learning Care Group

Child Care Center Cook

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to ...

Learning Care Group

Child Care Center Cook

Westland, MI · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to ...

Learning Care Group

Child Care Center Cook

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is responsible for overall food preparation for the school's enrolled children. This role should be able to ...

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Child Care Center Cook information

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How much do child care center cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for child care center cook in the United States is $14.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Care Center Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Care Center Cook, you need knowledge of nutrition, food safety, and meal preparation, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant food handler certifications. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and state or local health regulations is also essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with staff and children help set exceptional cooks apart. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safe preparation of nutritious meals that meet regulatory standards and support children's health and well-being.

What are Child Care Center Cooks?

Child Care Center Cooks are professionals responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks to children in a child care or daycare setting. They ensure that food is cooked safely, meets nutritional standards, and accommodates any dietary restrictions or allergies. In addition to cooking, they often handle menu planning, kitchen cleanliness, and inventory management. Their role is vital in promoting healthy eating habits and supporting the overall well-being of children in their care.

What are some common challenges faced by a Child Care Center Cook, and how can they be managed?

Child Care Center Cooks often face the challenge of preparing nutritious meals that meet dietary guidelines while accommodating allergies and picky eaters. Managing large quantities within tight schedules and maintaining strict food safety standards are also key responsibilities. Effective communication with child care staff helps ensure meals align with daily activities and individual needs. Staying organized, planning menus in advance, and staying updated on food safety regulations can help overcome these challenges and create a positive dining experience for children.

What is the difference between Child Care Center Cook vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectChild Care Center CookPreschool Teacher
CredentialsFood handler permits, basic culinary trainingEarly childhood education certification or degree
Work EnvironmentKitchen and food prep areas within child care centersClassroom settings with young children
Employer & Industry UsageChild care facilities, daycare centersPreschools, early education programs
Common Search & ComparisonChild Care Center Cook vs Preschool Teacher

The Child Care Center Cook primarily focuses on preparing nutritious meals for children in a daycare setting, requiring food safety certifications. In contrast, a Preschool Teacher is responsible for educating and caring for children, often holding early childhood education credentials. While both roles work within child care environments, their daily tasks and required qualifications differ significantly.

More about Child Care Center Cook jobs
What states have the most Child Care Center Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Care Center Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Care Center Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Care Center Cook jobs are:
Child Care Center Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Care Center Cook job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,643 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Child Care Center Cook

BrightPath Early Learning & Child Care

Cheshire, CT

$16.94 - $18.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Center: Cheshire, CT

Pay Range: $16.94 - $18.50 per hour

Job Type: Full-Time

No evenings or weekends!

Build your career in the early childhood education field and become a valued member of our team at BrightPath Kids! As a proud member of the Busy Bees global childcare community, we offer exceptional opportunities for your career to thrive. Join our diverse community of over 5,000 dedicated employees, and experience competitive pay and benefits, including a childcare discount. With our rapid growth, now is the perfect time to apply and shape an extraordinary future with us. Unleash your potential and join BrightPath!

What will you be doing?

As a Center Cook, you'll play a vital role in fueling young minds and bodies by preparing healthy and delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Your attention to nutrition and food safety helps ensure our children are energized and ready to learn and grow each day. You’ll also take pride in keeping our kitchen clean, organized, and running smoothly.

In addition to your kitchen role, we welcome and value cooks who are interested in spending time in the classroom. This unique opportunity allows you to build meaningful connections with the children by supporting teachers and engaging in classroom activities. While not required, your presence in both the kitchen and classroom helps create a warm, supportive environment for all.

If you love preparing nutritious meals and want to be part of a collaborative team that makes a difference in children’s lives, we’d love to hear from you!
Top Reasons to join BrightPath:

• We offer a 60% child care discount to ALL employees so that your family can take advantage of our great learning environment!
• All staff are eligible to participate in the 401(k) program which offers a company match – this is free money!
• We will support your long-term career goals by offering opportunities for professional development.
• Full-time staff accrue 2 weeks of paid time off in their first year.
• Full-time staff are given 7 paid holidays off.
• Full-time staff are offered health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance and $10,000 of company-paid life insurance.

Requirements:
• High School Diploma or equivalent required 
• 1+ years of food preparation experience preferred
• ServSafe Food Handler certification preferred
• Child and Adult Food Care Program (CACFP) experience preferred
• Ability to work within regular operating hours
• Must meet state criteria for child care employment
If this sounds like a good fit, we want to meet you! Please submit your application today.

Apply