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Early Head Start Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

Your Mission in Action The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0 ...

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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 14, 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 Teacher

Granbury, TX • On-site

Upbring
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

$15.86/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Upbring rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

PayStarting at $15.86/hour

At Upbring, our team is united by a shared mission: to break the cycle of child abuse and advance the wellbeing of children, families and communities, empowering them to thrive. As servant-leaders, we lead by example, working passionately to create a brighter future for those we serve.  Every day, we strive to embody our core values:

  • We are Warriors: Fierce, resilient, and courageous, we face challenges head-on with unwavering loyalty and passion.
  • We are Servants: We dedicate ourselves to serving others, empowering those around us to thrive.
  • We are Family: We work together as a supportive, caring community, creating a sense of belonging and strength.

Joining Upbring means becoming part of a family of passionate individuals who are fearless in their pursuit of lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.

Your Mission in Action

The Early Head Start (EHS) Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0-3). This role focuses on building secure attachments, fostering social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and implementing research-based curricula aligned with Head Start Performance Standards. The EHS Teacher ensures a safe and stimulating classroom, conducts ongoing assessments, and partners closely with families to support each child's growth and school readiness. Additionally, the EHSTeacher maintains compliance with licensing, health, and safety regulations while collaborating with colleagues to promote high-quality early childhood education.


  • Establish a warm, secure, and trusting atmosphere that promotes healthy attachment and emotional well-being for infants and toddlers
  • Plan and deliver engaging, research-based activities that support cognitive, language, motor, and social-emotional development
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom, following health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all children
  • Monitor and document children's developmental progress using approved assessment tools to individualize learning experiences
  • Assist with feeding, diapering, toileting, and naptime routines, ensuring each child’s individual needs are met with respect and sensitivity
  • Engage in intentional interactions, including talking, singing, reading, and playing, to foster strong language and relationship-building skills
  • Establish strong communication and collaboration with parents/caregivers, providing regular updates and resources to support child development at home
  • Work with teaching teams, family advocates, and early intervention specialists to address the needs of all children, including those with disabilities or developmental delays
  • Adhere to Head Start Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and program policies, ensuring high-quality early childhood education. 
  • Other duties as assigned 

Minimum Requirements - Early Head Start Teacher

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Current Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in Infant and Toddler
  • Willing to obtain COR Advantage Assessment certification 
  • Willing to obtain CPR and first aid certification 

Preferred Requirements - Early Head Start Teacher

  • Associate Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Development, or in a different field with a minimum of 15 credit hours in one of these fields of study.
  • One (1) year of experience in an early childhood setting 
  • CPR/First Aid CertificationHead Start experience or familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and ELOF 
  • Experience working with dual-language learners and children with disabilities 
  • Training in CLASS, Conscious Discipline, or other early childhood best practices

Travel - Early Head Start Teacher

  • This position may be required to travel up to 10%

Perks at Upbring 

  • Competitive PTO & paid holidays 
  • Health, dental, vision insurance & more! 
  • 403(b) Plan 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted Gym Memberships 

Physical Demands & Work Conditions - Early Head Start Teacher

  • Ability to stand, walk, sit on the floor, and move quickly to ensure child safety. 
  • Lift and carry infants/toddlers

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