Food Service Cook

Classification: Classified
Salary Level: 33.5
Definition:
Under the general supervision of the Child Nutrition Supervisor, the Food Service Cook prepares and
cooks a variety of foods in large quantities according to established menus and assists in coordinating the
operations of the Early Learning central kitchen.
Supervisor:
Child Nutrition Supervisor
Positions Supervised:
None
Qualification Requirements:
To perform a job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
The requirements listed in the job description are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities
required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
The following is a list of duties that is representative of the position that includes but is not limited to:
● Prepares and cooks a wide variety of main dishes and accompanying items ensuring that student food
allergy protocols are followed
● Interprets, follows and converts assigned recipes; bakes as needed
● Readies food for distribution, measuring proper amounts
● Ensures food is packed properly for safety and travel
● Assists in maintaining records and reports related to kitchen operation, output, and inventory,
including via electronic records system
● Operates kitchen equipment and application in a safe and effective manner
● Assists with cleaning kitchen equipment, dishes, and work areas ensuring the maintenance of sanitary
conditions
● Supports the program goals, including school readiness goals
● Drives food service vehicle when assigned
● Assists with catering as assigned
● Complies with Monterey County Office of Education Board Policies, Superintendent Policies and
Administrative Regulations
● Complies with State of California Health and Welfare Codes including Title 22; Early Learning
Performance Standards; Early Learning policies and procedures, and other applicable State and
Federal Regulations
Other Duties:
Performs other job-related duties as required
Physical and Mental Characteristics:
● Physical, mental and emotional stamina to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position
● Manual dexterity sufficient to write, use telephone and business machines
● Vision sufficient to read printed materials
● Hearing sufficient to conduct in person and telephone conversations
● Speaking ability in an understandable voice with sufficient volume to be heard in normal
conversational distance, on the telephone and in addressing groups
● Physical agility to push/pull, squat, twist, turn, bend, stoop and to reach overhead and climb
● Physical mobility sufficient to move about the work environment (office, district, school site-to-
● site), drive an automobile, and respond to emergency situations
● Physical strength sufficient to lift 50 pounds
● Physical stamina sufficient to sit for prolonged periods of time
● Mental acuity to collect and interpret data, evaluate, reason, define problems, establish facts, draw
valid conclusions, make valid judgments and decisions.
Required Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
● Any combination of education equivalent to a high school diploma
● Experience working in a large institutional food service operation or any combination of training and
experience which has provide the applicant with the required knowledge and abilities to successfully
perform job duties
Knowledge of:
● Preparation, packing, serving, and distribution of large quantities of food
● Kitchen methods, equipment, machines, and utensils used in cafeterias
● Proper food handling, preparation and storage
● Food service sanitation and proper cleaning methods
● Principles of basic math and measurements
● Standard principles of child nutrition
● Experience in driving automotive equipment
● Safe driving practices
Skills and Abilities:
● Prepare and serve food, and baked products according to prescribed recipes
● Operate food service equipment, appliances, and kitchen utensils
● Understand and follow oral and written instructions in English
2
● Read and write in English at a level to perform responsibilities
● Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the in the course of work
including preschool children
● Operate assigned food service equipment safely and effectively
● Read, interpret, and convert recipes
● Maintain accurate records
● Work in adverse temperature conditions
● Operate a vehicle safely and efficiently
● Use initiative and judgment in discussing problems with the public and staff, involving practices and
policies
● Work both independently and function effectively within a team setting while demonstrating
leadership qualities
● Perform under demanding and varied work schedule with ability to remain flexible and focused during
interruptions and distractions
● Meet schedules and timelines
Licenses and Certifications:
● Possession of an appropriate, valid California driver’s license with evidence of insurability
● Valid Food Safety Certificate per the California Retail Food Code within 60 days of employment