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Daycare Cook Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Preschool Cook

Waconia, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $21/hr

If you love working with children and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... Cook Qualifications : * High school diploma or equivalent (GED). * Minimum age of 18 years.

Preschool Cook

Waconia, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $21/hr

If you love working with children and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... Cook Qualifications : * High school diploma or equivalent (GED). * Minimum age of 18 years.

Preschool Cook

Waconia, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $21/hr

If you love working with children and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... Ready to cook up some joy? Apply today and become part of a team that's transforming lives, one ...

Preschool Cook

Waconia, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $21/hr

If you love working with children and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... Cook Qualifications : * High school diploma or equivalent (GED). * Minimum age of 18 years.

Preschool Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Overview What Makes You Our Star Cook : * High school diploma or GED. * At least 18 years old ... If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ...

3675 9th St NW We are hungry for a Preschool Cook to join our vibrant team of childcare superstars ... If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ...

Preschool Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... We're hiring NOW-grab your apron and let's get cooking! Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for ...

Preschool Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... We're hiring NOW-grab your apron and let's get cooking! Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for ...

Preschool Cook

Albertville, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $22.50/hr

If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... We're hiring NOW-grab your apron and let's get cooking! Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for ...

Preschool Cook

Albertville, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $22.50/hr

Overview What Makes You Our Star Cook : * High school diploma or GED. * At least 18 years old ... If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ...

Preschool Cook

Albertville, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $22.50/hr

If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... We're hiring NOW--grab your apron and let's get cooking! Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for ...

Preschool Cook

Albertville, MN · On-site

$16.40 - $22.50/hr

If you're passionate about kids and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood ... We're hiring NOW-grab your apron and let's get cooking! Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for ...

Cafeteria Cook

Willmar, MN · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Cafeteria Cook Pay Range: $22 - $25/Hour Who is Nova-Tech Engineering? Headquartered in Willmar, MN ... daycare center, and more! We offer competitive wages with generous paid time off and benefits ...

Cafeteria Cook Pay Range: $22 - $25/Hour Who is Nova-Tech Engineering? Headquartered in Willmar, MN ... daycare center, and more! We offer competitive wages with generous paid time off and benefits ...

Child Care Center Cook

Lakeville, MN · On-site

$20.15 - $20.94/hr

This is more than just a daycare job. It's a journey, where you learn, grow, thrive-and play-every day. Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is ...

Child Care Center Cook

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$20.15 - $20.94/hr

This is more than just a daycare job. It's a journey, where you learn, grow, thrive-and play-every day. Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is ...

Child Care Center Cook

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$20.15 - $20.94/hr

This is more than just a daycare job. It's a journey, where you learn, grow, thrive-and play-every day. Working at a childcare center is something special. The Child Care Cook, Food Specialist, is ...

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Showing results 1-20

Daycare Cook information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do daycare cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for daycare cook in Minnesota is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a daycare cook?

Daycare Cooks are responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children at a daycare facility. They plan menus that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate food allergies or special needs. Daycare Cooks also ensure that the kitchen area is clean and compliant with health and safety regulations, and they often work closely with daycare staff to support children's well-being. Their role is vital in providing healthy food choices to promote children's growth and development while at daycare.

What does a daycare cook do?

Daycare cooks plan, prepare, and clean up meals at a daycare facility. As a daycare cook, you prepare breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for children. You must have knowledge of healthy, complete meals and use budgeting skills to make food purchases for a given period of time. Your responsibilities include ensuring enough food is available each day and that each meal is USDA food guide compliant. Other duties involve maintaining a clean kitchen workspace, storing food according to local health unit guidelines, and serving food hygienically. You also interact with children and model appropriate food handling and eating etiquette.

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

To thrive as a Daycare Cook, you need knowledge of nutrition, safe food handling, and meal preparation, often backed by a food handler's permit or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and compliance with health department regulations are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication with staff and children are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the preparation of healthy, safe meals that support children's well-being and meet regulatory standards.

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

Daycare Cooks often face the challenge of preparing nutritious meals that meet strict dietary guidelines and accommodate various allergies and preferences among children. Managing time efficiently to serve meals on schedule while maintaining food safety and cleanliness standards is essential. Effective communication with daycare staff is crucial to stay informed about children's needs and any last-minute changes. Staying organized and planning menus in advance can help streamline meal preparation and reduce stress during busy times.

What is the difference between Daycare Cook vs School Lunch Cook?

AspectDaycare CookSchool Lunch Cook
CredentialsFood handler’s permit, basic cooking skillsFood handler’s permit, food safety certification
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, daycare facilitiesSchools, educational institutions
Employer & IndustryChildcare providers, daycare industrySchool districts, education sector
Job FocusPreparing nutritious meals for young childrenPreparing meals for students, adhering to school menus

While both roles involve preparing meals for children, a Daycare Cook focuses on creating nutritious, age-appropriate food in daycare settings, whereas a School Lunch Cook prepares meals for larger groups of students in school cafeterias, often following strict nutritional guidelines and menus.

What are popular job titles related to Daycare Cook jobs in Minnesota?

For Daycare Cook jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Daycare Cook jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Daycare Cook jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Daycare Cook jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Daycare Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Daycare Cook job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,156 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$16.40 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Cadence Education rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

859 Vista Blvd

Ready to make a difference in young lives while unleashing your culinary creativity? We are currently seeking a passionate Cook to join our dynamic team of childcare superstars! If you love working with children and bring experience from childcare, daycare, or early childhood education, this is your chance to shine in a role that’s as rewarding as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love Being Part of The Team:
We’re on a mission to spark bright futures for children, families, employees, and communities. Our cutting-edge, research-based curriculum and nurturing, home-like environments set the gold standard in early education. You’ll be part of a high-energy team that’s all about collaboration, open communication, and creating a joyful, supportive workplace. We’re not just a preschool—we’re a launchpad for lifelong learning, and we need your culinary talents to fuel our little explorers!

What You’ll Do:

  • Whip up nutritious, kid-approved meals and snacks that keep our children energized and smiling.
  • Partner with our caring kitchen team to create a warm, welcoming dining experience.
  • Bring your enthusiasm for child development to a role that blends culinary skills with heart.
  • Work in a fun, fast-paced environment where every day is a new adventure!

Why This Role Rocks:

  • Immediate Start: We’re hiring NOW, so you can jump right into the action!
  • Incredible Benefits (Full-Time Employees):
    • Competitive pay + on-demand pay with UKG Wallet.
    • 50% childcare tuition discount—perfect for your own little ones!
    • Hourly Pay Rate $16.40 - $21.00
    • 401(k) with employer match to plan for your future.
    • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, plus life, disability, and pet insurance.
    • Generous paid time off (increases with seniority), paid holidays, and company-paid life insurance.
    • Educational perks: Paid CDA, tuition reimbursement, and professional development to grow your skills.
  • Work-Life Balance: We champion your well-being with a supportive team and a culture that celebrates YOU.
  • Join a Leader: With over 340 schools across 30 states and 30+ years of expertise, Cadence Education is a powerhouse in early childhood education, preparing kids to soar.

Who We’re Looking For:

  • A team player with a passion for children and a knack for creating tasty, healthy meals.
  • Experience in childcare, daycare, or early childhood education is a plus, but your enthusiasm is what counts most!
  • Someone who thrives in a collaborative, upbeat environment and loves making a difference.

Ready to cook up some joy? Apply today and become part of a team that’s transforming lives, one meal at a time! We are your home for growth, connection, and impact.


Cook Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
  • Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Compliance with all state-specific cook regulations.
  • Preferred: Valid Food Handler’s Card or ServSafe certification.

Cook Responsibilities:

  • Meal preparation, organize food and supply storage, manage dishwashing, deliver meals to classrooms, and uphold kitchen organization and systems.
  • Perform additional tasks as needed, such as laundry, cleaning equipment, and sanitizing toys.
  • Note: This role involves physical lifting.

Cadence Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

#CRMN


Waconia
MN

What Cadence Education employees say

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About Cadence Education

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cadence Education is one of the premier early childhood educators in the United States, operating over 275 private preschools and elementary schools across 30 states. With over 29 years in business, we have developed an unparalleled expertise in preparing students to thrive in the next step of their childhood.

Industry

Education

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Scottsdale, AZ, US

Year founded

1969