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Preschool Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cadence Academy Preschool

Preschool Cook

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$13.55 - $17.62/hr

Company Overview Preschool Cook - Cook Up Smiles for Little Foodies! Iowa City, Iowa Ready to stir up joy and nourish young hearts? Cadence Academy Preschool, a proud member of the Cadence Education ...

The Learning Experience - Parker

Preschool Cook

Parker, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

eLinks Education Corp

CHEF / PRESCHOOL COOK

Roswell, GA · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

Chef/Preschool Cook develops menus, implements the cycle of menus, maintains inventory of food, orders, stocks, and prepares food, completes Child Care Food Program paperwork and supports center ...

The Learning Experience - Cary

Preschool Cook

Cary, NC

$14.25 - $17/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

The Learning Experience - Vernon, CT

Preschool Cook

CT · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

The Learning Experience

Preschool Cook

Enfield, CT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

Cadence Academy Preschool

Preschool Cook

Lacey, WA · On-site

$18.60 - $24.18/hr

Company Overview 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 ...

The Learning Experience - Pewaukee

Preschool Cook

Pewaukee, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

The Learning Experience

Preschool Cook

Comstock Park, MI · On-site

$16/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

The Learning Experience

Preschool Cook

Vernon, CT · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

As a Preschool Cook with us, you'll play a key role in making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities by cooking daily nutritious meals. You will: * Plan, prepare, and ...

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$16

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How much do preschool cook jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for preschool 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preschool Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Cook, you need knowledge of child nutrition, safe food handling, and menu planning, often supported by a food safety certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and compliance with health and dietary regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate effectively with staff are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure that meals are nutritious, safe, and served efficiently to support the health and development of young children.

What are some common challenges faced by preschool cooks, and how can they be managed?

Preschool cooks often face challenges such as accommodating a variety of dietary restrictions, managing food allergies, and preparing nutritious meals within tight schedules. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with teachers and parents to ensure all children's needs are met. Developing a set meal plan, staying informed about food safety standards, and collaborating closely with the childcare team can help preschool cooks maintain a safe and positive dining experience for all students.

What are Preschool Cooks?

Preschool Cooks are professionals responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks to young children in a preschool setting. They plan menus that meet dietary guidelines and accommodate allergies or special needs, ensuring food safety and cleanliness in the kitchen. Additionally, Preschool Cooks often work closely with teachers and administrators to support the overall health and well-being of children by providing balanced meals that aid in their growth and development.

What is the difference between Preschool Cook vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectPreschool CookKitchen Assistant
CredentialsFood handler’s permit, basic cooking skillsFood handler’s permit, basic kitchen skills
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centersSchools, cafeterias, daycare centers
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, childcare providersEducational institutions, food service providers
Job FocusPreparing child-friendly meals, menu planningAssisting with meal prep, cleaning, and kitchen maintenance

While both roles involve food preparation in educational settings, a Preschool Cook focuses on preparing nutritious, child-friendly meals and menu planning, whereas a Kitchen Assistant supports meal prep, cleaning, and kitchen organization. Both roles require food safety certifications and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

More about Preschool Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Preschool Cook jobs? Cities with the most Preschool Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool Cook jobs? The most popular types of Preschool Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Preschool Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Preschool Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Preschool Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Preschool Cook jobs are:
Preschool Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preschool Cook job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Preschool Cook

Cadence Academy Preschool

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$13.55 - $17.62/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Preschool Cook - Cook Up Smiles for Little Foodies!
Iowa City, Iowa
Ready to stir up joy and nourish young hearts? Cadence Academy Preschool, a proud member of the Cadence Education family, is 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 education, this is your chance to whip up delicious, healthy meals that fuel our preschoolers' adventures. We're hiring NOW-grab your apron and let's get cooking!
Why Cadence Education is Your Recipe for Success:
At Cadence, we're all about serving bright futures for children, families, employees, and communities. Our innovative curriculum and warm, home-like environments are the secret sauce of early education. You'll join a fun, collaborative team that thrives on open communication, teamwork, and a shared love for child development. We're not just a preschool-we're a kitchen for lifelong learning, and we need your culinary talents to keep our kids energized!
Your Role as Our Culinary Champion:
  • Create nutritious, kid-approved meals and snacks that make little tummies happy.
  • Keep the kitchen organized, managing food and supply storage like a pro.
  • Serve meals to classrooms, ensuring every child is fueled for learning and play.
  • Handle dishes and maintain a spotless, efficient kitchen system.
  • Pitch in with extra tasks like laundry, cleaning equipment, and sanitizing toys to keep our school sparkling. Finish
  • Note: This role involves some lifting, so bring your energy!

Why This Job is a Total Treat:
  • Start NOW: Jump into the kitchen today and start making a difference!
  • Sizzling Benefits (Full-Time Cooks):
    • Competitive pay + on-demand pay with UKG Wallet-access your earnings anytime!
    • Hourly Pay Range: $13.55 - $17.62
    • 50% childcare tuition discount-a delicious deal for your own little ones!
    • 401(k) with employer match to cook up a secure future.
    • Mouthwatering perks: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and even pet insurance!
    • Paid time off that grows with seniority, paid holidays, and company-paid life insurance.
    • Grow Your Skills: Paid CDA, tuition reimbursement, and professional development to spice up your career.
  • Balanced Flavor: We support you with a tight-knit team and a culture that prioritizes work-life harmony.
  • Join a Culinary Leader: With 325+ schools across 30 states and 30+ years of expertise, Cadence Education is the top chef in early childhood education!

Job Description
What Makes You Our Star Cook:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • At least 18 years old.
  • Meets all state preschool cook requirements.
  • 1 year of experience in food planning, preparation, and service, following USDA guidelines.
  • Preferred: Current Food Handler's Card or ServSafe certification.

Your Recipe for Success:
  • Whip up minor meal prep with care, ensuring healthy, tasty dishes for our kids.
  • Keep food and supply storage areas organized and ready for action.
  • Distribute meals to classrooms with a smile, making every delivery a delight.
  • Maintain a clean, efficient kitchen, handling dishes and systems like a pro.
  • Tackle extra duties like laundry and cleaning to keep our school shining.
  • Bring energy and enthusiasm to a role that involves some lifting.

Ready to serve up joy? Apply today and join a team that's all about love, growth, and making every meal a moment to savor! Cadence Education is your kitchen for connection, impact, and fun. Let's cook up bright futures together!
Only full-time employees are eligible for the listed benefits.
Cadence Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
#CR

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