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Childcare Center Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Little People's Landing

Childcare Center Cook

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

We are seeking a dedicated Cook to join our team, responsible for prepping and serving meals to ... Additionally, previous experience in childcare is advantageous, as some tasks will involve working ...

Craftsbury Saplings

Childcare Center Cook

Craftsbury, VT · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

... Center is seeking an organized, efficient, and thoughtful cook to prepare fresh, nutritious meals for up to 25 children and staff each day. Working collaboratively with our Kitchen Coordinator and ...

The Learning Experience

Center Cook

Addison, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Be flexible and adaptable to the daily business needs of a childcare center. If you have: * A High School Diploma or equivalent. * 1+ year of experience in food preparation and cooking. * A food ...

E & E Angel's Learning Academy

Cook

Richmond Heights, OH · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Childcare Center Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet the nutritional guidelines established by the Child and Adult Care Food Program ...

Family Focus

Cook (Childcare Center)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.66/hr

The Cook plans and prepares meals for the children of the Child and Family Development Center. Responsible for kitchen cleanliness and complying with licensing regulations. Also, this role is ...

Family Focus

Cook (Childcare Center)

Chicago, IL

$17.66/hr

The Cook plans and prepares meals for the children of the Child and Family Development Center. Responsible for kitchen cleanliness and complying with licensing regulations. Also, this role is ...

Bright Horizons

Cook- Childcare Center

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

As a Cook at Bright Horizons , you will plan and prepare nutritious, familystyle meals that support ... Food service experience in a childcare center, school cafeteria, commercial kitchen, or highvolume ...

Growing Kids Learning Center

Center Cook

South Bend, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

We provide an amazing childcare discount for all our staff! Anthem Health, Dental, and Vision ... The Center Cook supports learning, development, and health of young children. Their ...

Growing Kids Learning Center

Center Cook

South Bend, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

We provide an amazing childcare discount for all our staff! Anthem Health, Dental, and Vision ... The Center Cook supports learning, development, and health of young children. Their ...

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Childcare Center Cook information

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How much do childcare center cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 job categories do people searching Childcare Center Cook jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Childcare Center Cook jobs are:

Childcare Center Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Childcare Center Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,643 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Childcare Center Cook

Child Development Schools, Inc.

Hubert, NC • On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Childcare Cook -- Hubert, 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. Every meal and snack you prepare is a direct investment in a child's growth, energy, and development. You will work in a fast-paced but purposeful kitchen environment, preparing nutritious food that meets the needs of young children and the standards of our program.
What your day looks like:
  • Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with menu plans and CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and storage procedures to maintain a clean and compliant kitchen
  • Accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and special needs as documented for enrolled children
  • Track meal counts, food inventory, and supply needs and communicate with center leadership
  • Maintain kitchen equipment and report any maintenance needs promptly
  • Support classroom staff during non-kitchen hours as needed, assisting with activities and supervision

Pay and benefits
Pay: 13-16 per hour, based on experience. This role comes with a $350 Sign on Bonus
Full-time employees receive:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability
  • 401(k)
  • 9 company-paid holidays and 8 days of PTO
  • 50% tuition discount for your own children enrolled at a CDS center
  • Up to $5,250 in annual tuition reimbursement for continued education
  • Access to PerkSpot for discounts on major brands and services
  • Coaching, mentoring, and ongoing professional development

Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Valid food handler's permit (or ability to obtain one prior to start)
  • Experience in food preparation, kitchen operations, or food service
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage meal timing for multiple classrooms
  • Physical ability to meet the demands of a kitchen environment including standing for extended periods, lifting, and working with heat
  • Genuine care for the wellbeing of children and a positive, team-oriented attitude

About Child Development Schools
Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years. We are committed to providing high-quality developmental education and supporting the families and communities we serve.
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace. Child Development Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Valid food handler's permit (or ability to obtain one prior to start)
  • Experience in food preparation, kitchen operations, or food service
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage meal timing for multiple classrooms
  • Physical ability to meet the demands of a kitchen environment including standing for extended periods, lifting, and working with heat
  • Genuine care for the wellbeing of children and a positive, team-oriented attitude

About Child Development Schools
Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years. We are committed to providing high-quality developmental education and supporting the families and communities we serve.
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace. Child Development Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
Prior experience cooking for children or in an institutional food service setting is a plus.

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