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Early Head Start Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

START EARLY

Early Head Start Teacher

Waukegan, IL · On-site

The Early Head Start Teacher works closely with the Lead Teacher to create comprehensive and engaging lesson plans grounded in research-based practices for 0-3 year olds. Your creativity will shine ...

Start Early

Early Head Start Teacher

Waukegan, IL · On-site

The Early Head Start Teacher works closely with the Lead Teacher to create comprehensive and engaging lesson plans grounded in research-based practices for 0-3 year olds. Your creativity will shine ...

SHORE UP! Inc.

Early Head Start Teacher

Cambridge, MD · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Title: Early Head Start Teacher. * Locations: St. Clair, MD. The primary responsibility of the Early Head Start Teacher shall focus on implementing a comprehensive, early childhood development ...

SHORE UP! Inc.

Early Head Start Teacher

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Title: Early Head Start Teacher. * Locations: Salisbury, MD. The primary responsibility of the Early Head Start Teacher shall focus on implementing a comprehensive, early childhood development ...

SHORE UP! Inc.

Early Head Start Teacher

Crisfield, MD · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Title: Early Head Start Teacher. * Locations: Stockton, MD. The primary responsibility of the Early Head Start Teacher shall focus on implementing a comprehensive, early childhood development ...

SHORE UP! Inc.

Early Head Start Teacher

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Title: Early Head Start Teacher. * Locations: Salisbury, MD. The primary responsibility of the Early Head Start Teacher shall focus on implementing a comprehensive, early childhood development ...

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Early Head Start Cook information

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How much do early head start cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for early head start cook in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Early Head Start Cook?

Early Head Start Cooks are responsible for preparing nutritious meals and snacks for infants and toddlers enrolled in Early Head Start programs. They ensure that all food served meets federal nutrition guidelines and accommodates children's dietary needs or restrictions. Additionally, Early Head Start Cooks maintain kitchen cleanliness, manage food inventories, and follow strict food safety protocols. Their role is crucial in supporting the healthy development of young children within the program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Early Head Start Cook?

To thrive as an Early Head Start Cook, you need a solid understanding of nutrition, food safety, and menu planning, often supported by a high school diploma and food handler certification. Familiarity with institutional kitchen equipment, USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and strong communication skills help ensure meals meet dietary standards and coordinate with staff. These skills and qualifications are vital for providing safe, nutritious meals that support young children's development in a regulated program environment.

What are some common challenges faced by an Early Head Start Cook, and how can they be addressed?

Early Head Start Cooks often encounter challenges such as accommodating a variety of dietary restrictions, managing time efficiently to prepare meals for large groups, and adhering to strict health and safety guidelines. To address these challenges, it’s important to stay organized by following detailed meal plans and maintaining clear communication with teaching staff about children’s individual needs. Regular training on food safety and nutrition, as well as collaborating with nutritionists and program coordinators, can help ensure that meals are both safe and nutritious for all children.

What is the difference between Early Head Start Cook vs Child Care Assistant?

AspectEarly Head Start CookChild Care Assistant
CredentialsFood handler certification, background checkChild development associate (CDA) or similar, background check
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areas, childcare centersClassroom, indoor play areas, childcare centers
Employer & IndustryEarly childhood education programs, non-profitsChildcare centers, preschools, daycare facilities

Both roles work within early childhood education settings, but the Early Head Start Cook primarily handles meal preparation and food safety, while the Child Care Assistant supports children's daily activities and learning. They often collaborate but focus on different aspects of child care and nutrition.

What states have the most Early Head Start Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Early Head Start Cook jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Early Head Start Cook jobs?

For Early Head Start Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Early Head Start Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,058 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Early Head Start Cook

Talbott, TN • On-site

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority Head Start/Early Head Start
See more jobs at Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority Head Start/Early Head Startexternal

$13.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description


About This Role

Join our Early Head Start team as a Cook and make a difference every day! Under the guidance of the Nutrition Coordinator, you'll prepare nutritious meals, support daily food service operations, and help ensure compliance with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards. Based in the Early Head Start center's central kitchen, you'll play a vital role in creating healthy, welcoming mealtime experiences for young children.


What You'll Do

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks while ensuring meals are ready on time.
  • Order, receive, inspect, and properly store food and supplies, maintaining accurate inventory and staying within budget.
  • Prepare meals that are nutritious, appealing, and compliant with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines and approved menus.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen that meets all health, safety, and licensing standards.
  • Complete required records, including food purchases, inventory, meal counts, and production reports.
  • Transport food between Head Start and Early Head Start locations and maintain food service equipment and supplies.
  • Operate standard and commercial kitchen equipment safely, including dishwashing and sanitation equipment.
  • Clean and sanitize dishes, cookware, bottles, feeding supplies, and kitchen work areas daily.
  • Assist with infant feeding preparation, including bottle and formula sanitation, preparation, and storage.
  • Collaborate with the Nutrition Coordinator, Food Services Manager, teachers, and family service staff to support children's nutrition and wellness.
  • Assist with special events, family engagement activities, and nutrition education opportunities.
  • Support children and families with diverse needs in a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
  • Purchase and transport groceries and supplies, including lifting and carrying food items as needed.
  • Participate in trainings, follow agency policies and safety procedures, and complete additional duties as assigned.
  • Foster family engagement by encouraging parent participation and supporting community partnerships that strengthen the Early Head Start program.

Requirements

Education Requirements: Minimum of High school diploma or GED required.

Experience Requirements: Experience in food service and/or childcare preferred.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license, available transportation for work-related duties, and proof of liability insurance. Mileage will be reimbursed when using a personal vehicle.
  • Must obtain pre-employment physical and screen for communicable diseases.
  • Must obtain First Aid and CPR and keep updated.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to continue professional development.
  • A demonstrated ability in using planned menus to prepare food which is nourishing, appetizing, and appealing to children and an understanding of vital role nutrition plays in a child’s development is essential.
  • A natural concern for and enjoyment of Head Start children and their families; the ability to keep simple records necessary to assure financial accountability in the food service program; and willingness to assist in maintaining proper sanitation, health standards, and safety practices in food preparation and service required. 

Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Leave
  • Sick Leave

About Us

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN: Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.

Our employees have access to:

· Up to 14 paid holidays per year

· Sick leave and Personal time

· Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan

· Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System

· Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.