Food Service Assistant/ Assistant Cook

Summary

The Food Service Assistant/Assistant Cook supports the Lead Cook/Food Coordinator in all aspects of food service operations at Master’s Garden Preschool. This includes purchasing, preparing, serving, and distributing meals to students and staff, maintaining inventory, and ensuring kitchen cleanliness and sanitation. The role also involves stepping in for the Lead Cook as needed and following all health and safety standards in a Christ-centered environment.

Duties

• Assist in food preparation, handling, and distribution for the preschool
• Purchase and store food items efficiently, observing budgetary limits
• Step in for the Lead Cook during absences to ensure meal service continuity
• Maintain sanitary and safe conditions in food preparation areas
• Follow standardized recipes and assigned schedules to promote healthy eating
• Ensure compliance with Orange County Health and North Carolina regulations
• Unlock kitchen and buildings A, B, and C as needed
• Take out recycling every other week
• Complete shopping for food and supplies; order and pick up milk
• Inspect campus fire extinguishers and emergency lights monthly
• Wash dishes and complete cleaning duties assigned by the Lead Cook
• Maintain organized storage areas and confidentiality regarding children
• Attend staff meetings and training as required
• Be flexible and assist in other areas of the preschool when needed
• Provide first aid to children according to established procedures
• Follow instructions willingly and maintain a positive attitude
• Arrive on time and adhere to the established work schedule

Requirements

• Profession of faith in Jesus Christ and active membership in a doctrinally consistent church
• A clear calling and passion to serve preschool-age children and their families
• Knowledge of state and local licensing, health, safety, and sanitation requirements
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, solution-driven environment
• Understanding of sanitation, food handling, and nutrition principles
• Ability to maintain proper inventory and follow procedures
• Ability to handle conflict with a Christ-like attitude
• Willingness to follow Ebenezer Baptist Church organizational guidelines
• High school diploma or higher
• CPR/First Aid certification
• Basic math skills for measuring and portioning
• Successful background check and required health screening

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in food service or kitchen operations
• Familiarity with child nutrition or preschool food programs
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Comfort interacting with children and preschool staff
• SafeServe Certification

Benefits

• Competitive pay (based on education and experience)
• Professional development assistance
• Supportive, close-knit Christian work community
• 90-day probationary period for all new hires
• Additional benefits as outlined in the Employee Handbook

About Us

Master's Garden Preschool is a ministry of Ebenezer Baptist Church. We believe that every child is a gift from God. Our mission is to provide a healthy and affordable program that is designed to meet the social, emotional, spiritual, educational, and physical needs of each child.