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Kindergarten Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Riverdale Country School

Production Cook

Bronx, NY · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Riverdale Country School, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent all-gender school in New York City ... The cook is to assist in the preparation of meals in the kitchen under the guidance and direction ...

Riverdale Country School

Production Cook

Bronx, NY · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Riverdale Country School, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent all-gender school in New York City ... The cook is to assist in the preparation of meals in the kitchen under the guidance and direction ...

Riverdale Country School

Production Cook

New York, NY

$17.25 - $20/hr

Riverdale Country School, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent all-gender school in New York City ... The cook is to assist in the preparation of meals in the kitchen under the guidance and direction ...

OHCAC Head Start

Cook - Richland County

Mansfield, OH · On-site

... a kindergarten classroom. As part of the Early Learning team, your work with infants to ... Under general supervision, operates standard kitchen equipment to cook, prepares and serve food for ...

New

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Assistant Cook

Plainville, CT · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high ... Under the supervision of the Lead Cook, the Assistant Cook will assist the Cook in the preparation ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Assistant Cook

Augusta, GA

$14 - $17/hr

In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high ... Under the supervision of the Lead Cook, the Assistant Cook will assist the Cook in the preparation ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Assistant Cook

Augusta, GA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high ... Under the supervision of the Lead Cook, the Assistant Cook will assist the Cook in the preparation ...

Alphabet Academy

Childcare Culinary Assistant

Hamden, CT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Description Position at Alphabet Academy Alphabet Academy North in Hamden, Connecticut is seeking a prep cook for its progressive food program. We serve children (infants through kindergarten) mostly ...

Alphabet Academy

Childcare Culinary Assistant

Hamden, CT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Description Alphabet Academy North in Hamden, Connecticut is seeking a prep cook for its progressive food program. We serve children (infants through kindergarten) mostly organic, local and whole ...

Alphabet Academy

Childcare Culinary Assistant

Hamden, CT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Alphabet Academy North in Hamden, Connecticut is seeking a prep cook for its progressive food program. We serve children (infants through kindergarten) mostly organic, local and whole food daily ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Cook

Plainville, CT · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high ... Reporting directly to the Center Manager, the Cook is responsible for the the preparation and ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Cook

Augusta, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high ... Reporting directly to the Center Manager, the Cook is responsible for the the preparation and ...

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Kindergarten Cook information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do kindergarten cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for kindergarten cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a kindergarten cook do?

A Kindergarten Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks to young children in a kindergarten setting. They plan menus that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate allergies or special requirements. In addition to cooking, they maintain a clean and safe kitchen, follow food safety regulations, and sometimes involve children in simple food-related activities to promote healthy eating habits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kindergarten cook?

To thrive as a Kindergarten Cook, you need knowledge of nutrition, food safety, and meal preparation, often supported by a food handler’s certificate or similar qualification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and adherence to state or local health regulations is essential. Attention to detail, organization, and a caring attitude towards young children make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the safe preparation of nutritious meals and contribute to the overall well-being and development of children in a school setting.

What are the main challenges a kindergarten cook faces when preparing meals for young children?

One of the main challenges for a Kindergarten Cook is accommodating a variety of dietary restrictions and allergies while ensuring meals are nutritious and appealing to young children. It also requires careful menu planning to meet both regulatory guidelines and children's taste preferences. Additionally, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and food safety in a busy kitchen environment is crucial. Strong organization and communication skills are essential, as the cook often collaborates closely with teachers and staff to coordinate meal times and address any special dietary needs.

What is the difference between Kindergarten Cook vs Preschool Cook?

AspectKindergarten CookPreschool Cook
CredentialsFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skillsFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentKindergarten classrooms, school cafeteriasPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood education facilities
Employer & IndustryPublic/private schools, educational institutionsPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood programs
Job FocusPreparing nutritious meals for kindergarten childrenPreparing meals/snacks for preschool children

Both Kindergarten Cooks and Preschool Cooks prepare meals for young children in educational settings. The main difference lies in the age group served: Kindergarten Cooks focus on children in kindergarten, while Preschool Cooks serve preschool-aged children. Their credentials, work environments, and employer types are similar, making the roles closely related but tailored to different age groups.

What cities are hiring for Kindergarten Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Kindergarten Cook job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Kindergarten Cook jobs?

For Kindergarten Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Kindergarten Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kindergarten Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Production Cook

Bronx, NY • On-site

Riverdale Country School
Elementary and Secondary Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Riverdale Country Schoolexternal

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the preparation and execution of meals according to recipes and production guidelines.

  • Maintain cleanliness and safety standards in the kitchen, including proper storage and equipment operation.

  • Communicate with team and management regarding food production, safety hazards, and inventory needs.

Job description

Riverdale Country School, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent all-gender school in New York City, is dedicated to inspiring students to live meaningful and purpose-driven lives. The school achieves this by fostering a culture of academic excellence, critical thinking, and curiosity, supported by a diverse and inclusive community. Riverdale emphasizes both high challenge and high support in its approach to education, encouraging students to engage deeply in interdisciplinary learning, research, and experiential education, both inside and outside the classroom and beyond our campuses. This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

At Riverdale, we strive to reflect the diversity of the New York metropolitan area in our students, faculty, and staff. We believe that a diverse and inclusive community enriches the educational experience and is integral to our mission. With a student body of approximately 1,300 students from 117 different zip codes, Riverdale is a vibrant community where 48% of our students identify as students of color. 

We seek to employ educators and leaders who bring a student-centered approach, passion for their work, a commitment to DEIB, and a desire to contribute to the growth and development of our entire school community.

Job Summary:
The cook is to assist in the preparation of meals in the kitchen under the guidance and direction of the Executive Sous Chef and the management team. The person will perform routine kitchen tasks such as setting up workstations and ingredients so that food can be prepared according to recipes.  To be successful in this job, you will need thorough experience with hot and cold food preparation.
 
General Food Service Employee Expectations:
Comply with all state food handling laws. Comply with state and federal regulations. Comply with the school’s policies and building procedures. Follow the health, safety, and emergency procedures of the department. Work as a team member and assist co-workers with varying levels of food preparation and service. Willingness to flex or extend work schedule to assist the needs of the school’s event schedule. Demonstrate professionalism through conduct, punctuality, and minimal absences. Promote and practice professional growth and development. Demonstrates good judgment, discretion, and strict confidentiality regarding student and personnel information. Establish and maintain positive working relations with building staff, administrators, students, and parents. Work cooperatively and communicate successfully with building staff, administrators, students, and parents. Demonstrate a commitment to the educational success of Riverdale Country School Community.
 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Knowledge of various cuisines and cultural foods with an emphasis on sustainable sourcing. Communicate with team and management. Attend in-service training. Responsible for preparing and executing meals and understanding the timing of food production. Responsible for expediting and maintaining the amount of food produced based on forecasted demand during service times. Ability to cook and prepare food according to production guidelines and recipes. Knowledge of various food products from a variety of cultures and ethnicities, identification, and acceptable level of food quality. Must know methods of food preparation, cooking times, and portion sizes to ensure food is prepared in the prescribed manner. Evaluate food quality and preparedness by tasting everything. Ensure food is stored at the appropriate temperature for the appropriate length of time and follows all food safety standards set up/breaks down the kitchen. Responsible for the overall cleanliness of the kitchen, including floors, counters, walls, etc.. Maintains a clean, safe, and sanitary workstation, equipment, and utensils. Ability to safely operate all kitchen equipment (choppers, slicers, ovens, steamers, a variety of knives, etc.). Assist Chef in maintaining production records (food usage, overages, shortages, customer counts, etc.). Communicate with management regarding food product that needs to be ordered for upcoming productionReport safety hazards discovered in the location to management immediately additional job functions able to provide outstanding customer service and get along with coworkers, the Riverdale community, and the management team. Ability to communicate to our guests the important information pertaining to allergens and food knowledge (culture, ethnicity, procurement).Responsible for receiving deliveries and proper storage of all items.Knowledge of diet-restricted meal components, preparation, production, and service. Perform other related duties as assigned.
 
Types of Machines, Tools, and Specific Equipment Used:
Basic knowledge of cooking utensils and equipment, but not limited to: pots, pans, dishware, silverware, glassware, food slicing machine, knives, oven, grill/stove burners, microwave appliances, brazier, steam kettles.
 
Physical Demands:
Ability to stand for long periods of time, bend, kneel, and reach to store/retrieve supplies. Ability to lift, carry, and push supplies and boxes up to 40 pounds.
 
Work Environment:
Occasional environment exposures to cold, heat, and water.
 
Language Skills: 
Ability to read, interpret, and follow directions in the English Language. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from students and community members.
 
Reasoning Skills:
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
 
Certificates, Licenses, Registration:
ServSafe Certification- Preferred. NYC DOH Food Protection Certificate- Willing to maintain a current certification.
 
Primary Working Relationships:
Executive Sous Chef, Assistant Director of Food ServiceStudents, Faculty and Staff
 
Term of Employment:
Monday-Friday 6:30 am - 2:30 pm - some evenings and weekends required, subject to change with notice. 10-month full-time position, side work possible, when available during summer months.
 
 
Education and/Or Experience:
3-5 years experience in a professional kitchen environment.Proficient with a French knife and commercial cooking equipment. High School Diploma.
$22-$26 /hr
To apply for this position, please click on the red “Apply for this Job” button. Please submit a resume and cover letter.  If there are pronouns we should use in potential future communications, we invite you to share that information with us.  For information about this position and all open positions, please visit the Careers page of Riverdale’s website.

Benefits of Full Time Work at Riverdale Country School

Working at Riverdale Country School is a purposeful and meaningful career choice that comes with many benefits including:  

Transportation: Shuttle service is available to/from the 242nd St / Broadway subway station. Limited stops are also available near transit hubs in Manhattan including the Metro North Harlem Station and subway lines – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, A, B, C, and D. If there is need in the community, we can also run a shuttle from the Henry Hudson Parkway / 246th St bus stop which connects to the #7, #10, and Express Buses to/from Manhattan.

Professional Development: A generous professional-development budget provides for conferences, skills training, and onsite training in areas such as mindfulness, coaching, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Grants and Stipends: All employees are eligible for Frankel Fellow grants, known as “passion grants,” which pay for enrichment activities. More than 120 grants have been made to faculty and staff since the program started in 2014. Stipends are available for coaching, affinity group facilitation, advising clubs with significant out-of-school time, and chaperoning trips (including global trips!).

Sabbatical:  Full time teaching faculty are eligible for a sabbatical after 10 years of employment.  

Health Benefits: Riverdale offers and subsidizes health, dental, and vision insurance.  In addition, the school offers a flexible spending account through which employees can use pre-tax dollars to pay for health-related expenses.  

Retirement:  Employees are eligible to join our Defined Contribution retirement plan through TIAA.  The school contributes 7% of an employee's annual salary to their retirement account.  

Vacation:  Riverdale Country School has a generous time-off policy for staff in addition to vacations afforded by the school calendar.  

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.