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Childcare Center Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ministry of Caring, Inc

Cook

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Childcare Center Cook Position Summary: The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program ...

Church Childcare

Child Care Center Cook

Walkertown, NC · On-site

$12 - $17/hr

At Church Childcare, we are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where ... We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Cook to join our childcare center. As a Cook , you will play ...

Carilion Clinic

Culinary Center Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18.70 - $26.18/hr

R161219 Culinary Center Cook (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: Sign on Bonus Eligible ... Discounts on childcare * Continued education and training

BrightPath Kids USA

Child Care Center Cook

Manchester, CT

$16.94 - $18.50/hr

As a proud member of the Busy Bees global childcare community, we offer exceptional opportunities ... As a Center Cook , you'll play a vital role in fueling young minds and bodies by preparing healthy ...

BrightPath Kids USA

Child Care Center Cook

Cheshire, CT

$16.94 - $18.50/hr

As a proud member of the Busy Bees global childcare community, we offer exceptional opportunities ... As a Center Cook , you'll play a vital role in fueling young minds and bodies by preparing healthy ...

Young Explorers

Child Care Center Cook

Avon, OH

$13 - $16/hr

As a proud member of BrightPath Kids and Busy Bees global childcare community, we offer exceptional ... As a Center Cook , you'll play a vital role in fueling young minds and bodies by preparing healthy ...

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Childcare Center Cook information

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How much do childcare center cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,643 per year, or $14.7 per hour.
Cook

Cook

Ministry of Caring, Inc

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Childcare Center Cook

Position Summary:

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children in accordance with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines and Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) regulations. This role ensures safe food handling, proper storage, and a sanitary kitchen environment. The Cook also accommodates special dietary needs and supports an inclusive environment consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Essential Functions:

  • Plan and prepare meals and snacks that meet USDA CACFP requirements and Delaware childcare nutrition standards.
  • Post menus in advance and update as required by OCCL licensing.
  • Prepare food in appropriate portions and textures for different age groups, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
  • Store and rotate food according to Delaware Food Code standards (FIFO, proper labeling, refrigeration ≤41°F, freezing ≤0°F).
  • Maintain kitchen sanitation: clean and disinfect equipment, utensils, and food prep surfaces daily.
  • Keep accurate records of food purchases, inventories, menus, and temperature logs for licensing inspections.
  • Ensure safe operation and basic maintenance of kitchen equipment, report malfunctions promptly.
  • Follow OCCL licensing rules, including health and safety standards, and cooperate with inspections.
  • Provide meals and snacks without discrimination and modify menus as needed for allergies, medical conditions, or cultural/religious dietary needs.
  • Work collaboratively with staff and communicate with families about menu planning and dietary accommodation.
  • Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance.
  • Perform other duties to help drive our vision, and fulfill our mission, that “The poor should never be treated poorly”.

Education/Experience:

  • High School diploma or equivalent-REQUIRED
  • Experience in cooking and/or food preparation for multiple individuals in a childcare setting - PREFERRED

Skills and Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices in compliance with Delaware Food Code and OCCL regulations.
  • Understanding children nutrition needs, portion sizes, and age-appropriate food preparation.
  • Ability to plan menus, manage inventory, and maintain accurate records.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with children, staff, families, and regulatory inspectors.
  • Basic computer or record-keeping skills for documentation and reporting.
  • Physical ability to lift 35 lbs., stand and walk for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks safely.
  • Must be able to climb flights of steps numerous times a day.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Must be able to complete and pass drug screening.
  • Willingness to consent to and the ability to pass an FBI fingerprinting background check, (candidate will assume all cost incurred).
  • Provide appropriate documents to complete the I-9 requirement.

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