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Childcare Center Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Child Development Schools

Childcare Center Cook

Georgetown, KY · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Childcare Center Cook- Georgetown, Kentucky Your role As a Childcare Cook at Child Development Schools, you will play an important role in the health and wellbeing of the children in our care. Every ...

Child Development Schools

Childcare Center Cook

Durham, NC

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

Childcare Center Cook - Durham, North Carolina Your role As a Childcare Cook at Child Development Schools, you will play an important role in the health and wellbeing of the children in our care.

Child Development Schools

Childcare Center Cook

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

Childcare Center Cook - Wilmington, North Carolina Your role As a Childcare Cook at Child Development Schools, you will play an important role in the health and wellbeing of the children in our care.

Child Development Schools

Childcare Center Cook

Burlington, NC · On-site

$10.75 - $14.50/hr

Childcare Center Cook, Part Time -- Burlington, North Carolina Your role As a Childcare Cook at Child Development Schools, you will play an important role in the health and wellbeing of the children ...

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How much do childcare center cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for childcare 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 does a childcare center cook do?

A Childcare Center Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children at a childcare facility. They follow menus that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate allergies or special dietary needs. In addition to cooking, they maintain kitchen cleanliness, ensure food safety standards are met, and sometimes help plan menus. Their work helps promote healthy eating habits and supports the well-being of children in the center.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a childcare center cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Childcare Center Cook, you need knowledge of nutrition, food safety, meal planning, and experience in large-scale food preparation, often supported by a food handler’s permit or related certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and following allergen management protocols is typically required. Strong organization, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with staff and children are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, nutritious meals are consistently provided, supporting children's health and meeting regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by a childcare center cook and how can they be managed?

Childcare Center Cooks often face the challenge of preparing nutritious, appealing meals that meet strict dietary guidelines and accommodate allergies or special needs. Balancing variety with budget constraints and managing time efficiently during busy meal periods are also common hurdles. Success in this role often relies on strong organizational skills, clear communication with staff about children's dietary requirements, and staying updated on food safety standards. Collaborating closely with teachers and parents ensures meals align with children's needs and preferences.

What is the difference between Childcare Center Cook vs Kitchen Assistant in a childcare setting?

AspectChildcare Center CookKitchen Assistant
CredentialsFood handler’s permit, basic cooking skillsFood handler’s permit, basic kitchen skills
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, kitchensChildcare centers, kitchens
Employer & IndustryChildcare facilities, education industryChildcare facilities, education industry
Primary ResponsibilitiesPreparing meals, menu planningAssisting with meal prep, cleaning

The Childcare Center Cook focuses on preparing nutritious meals and managing menus, while the Kitchen Assistant supports meal preparation and maintains kitchen cleanliness. Both roles require food safety certifications and work within childcare environments, but the Cook has more responsibility for meal planning and cooking.

More about Childcare Center Cook jobs

What cities are hiring for Childcare Center Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Childcare Center Cook job openings:

What states have the most Childcare Center Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Childcare Center Cook jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Childcare Center Cook jobs?

For Childcare Center Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Childcare Center Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Childcare Center Cook job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,643 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Childcare Center Cook

Strongsville, OH

Sweet Kiddles Flexible Childcare Center
Retail • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Sweet Kiddles Flexible Childcare Centerexternal

$12 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Make a Difference Every Single Day
At Sweet Kiddles Flexible Childcare, this isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to shape young minds, inspire curiosity, and be part of something meaningful.
We’re looking for a caring and experienced Cook to assist in the overall management of day-to-day operations of all food preparation and cooking at the kitchen.
Your New Work Home
Sweet Kiddles Strongsville
16512 Pearl Rd
Strongsville, Ohio, 44136
Why You’ll Love It Here
We don’t just support children — we support YOU.
Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life)
Paid time off + paid holidays (because balance matters)
401(k) to invest in your future
Employee childcare discounts
Daily Pay App — get paid when you need it
Career growth opportunities (we promote from within!)
A welcoming, inclusive, and team-first culture
Recognition for the incredible work you do
What You’ll Be Doing
Every day is a chance to make an impact. You will:
Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations, including all required training courses.
Prepare daily meals and snacks for the children, including menus & recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
Manage inventory and purchase necessary ingredients and supplies
Support team members by pitching in, being energetic and flexible
Step into classrooms to support staff/breaks when needed
Attend Sweet Kiddles New Hire Training and center annual cleaning day
Perform duties as needed by the center administrator
Adhere to all policies in the SK Team Member Handbook
What You Bring
High School Diploma or GED (Required)
ServSafe certification is preferred but not required to start. Sweet Kiddles will certify any cooks that do not hold a valid ServSafe certification.
Experience in a childcare setting
Strong communication and teamwork skills
A positive attitude and passion for working with children
Ability to pass background and health requirements
Who We Are
At Sweet Kiddles, we believe every child — and every team member — deserves to feel valued, supported, and inspired.
We’re proud to be a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Ready to Love Where You Work?
If you’re looking for more than just a job — if you want a career filled with purpose, connection, and joy — we’d love to meet you.
Apply today and start making a difference at Sweet Kiddles!
Join us at Sweet Kiddles and become part of a diverse and inclusive community committed to providing the highest quality early childhood education. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.
Sweet Kiddles by Inspire Early Education is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We provide accommodation for applicants with disabilities to ensure equal access to employment opportunities. If you require accommodation during the application process, please reach out to us at
6:45am - 2:45pm

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