Job Opportunities

Job Title: Head Start Childcare Cook

Report To: Head Start Coordinator

 

Employment Type: Part Time (4 hours a day)

Hours Per Week: 20 hours WAGE: $21.87/Hr

Cooking for: 28 children (12 ages 0-3; 16 ages 3-6)

Position Start: As soon as possible

 

Conayt Aboriginal Head Start is seeking a dedicated and caring Head Start Childcare Cook to support the health and well-being of children through the preparation of nutritious, culturally appropriate meals. This role plays a key part in meeting health standards and supporting the overall success of the Head Start program.

 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Head Start Childcare Cook is responsible for preparing and serving balanced, nutritious meals and snacks in accordance with Canada’s Food Guide – First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Interior Health regulations, Child Care Licensing requirements, and Aboriginal Head Start policies. High standards of food quality, safety, sanitation, and portion control are essential to this role.

 

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve daily meals and snacks for children in a timely and organized manner
• Ensure meals follow the Food Pyramid guidelines:
• • No processed foods
  • Limited sugary foods
• Ensure accurate portion control to meet nutritional and health requirements
• Be fully knowledgeable of all food allergies, dietary restrictions, and medical needs of children
• Wear proper cooking attire at all times

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain full compliance with:
• • Interior Health regulations
  • Child Care Licensing standards
  • Aboriginal Head Start policies and procedures
• Follow all food safety practices, including FIFO (First In, First Out) to minimize food waste
• Ensure no expired food is used or stored
• Support a safe and healthy environment in collaboration with the Head Start team 

Sanitation & Kitchen Maintenance

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized kitchen at all times
• Clean and sanitize all food preparation and serving equipment daily
• Sanitize kitchen surfaces using approved bleach solution
• Perform general kitchen cleaning and maintenance daily
• Clean and organize the refrigerator on a monthly basis

Menu Planning, Documentation & Inventory

• Prepare and post weekly menus for parents and staff
• Maintain accurate documentation of food preparation and food service
• Organize and maintain menus and daily meal records
• Assist with ordering food and kitchen supplies within the approved budget
• Monitor inventory to ensure proper storage and usage

Program Support & Professional Responsibilities

• Assist in building positive relationships with children and staff
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions, workshops, and conferences as required
• Participate in Professional Enhancement Plans (PEPs), including shopping for family meal kits
• Be available to cook for special program events (e.g., pancake breakfasts, dinners, field trips)
• Participate in ongoing professional development related to the position
• Perform other related duties as assigned

 

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma
• Safe Food Handling Certification
• 1–2 years of food service experience (experience cooking for large groups preferred)
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification
• Knowledge of:
• • Child Care and Early Learning Act
  • Canada’s Food Guide
  • Health and sanitary regulations
  • Aboriginal Head Start and Child Care Licensing standards
• Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Persons Screening
• Minimum of three (3) professional references
• Knowledge of local language and culture
• Valid Driver’s License
• Compliance with Conayt Friendship Society COVID-19 Vaccination Policy
• Strong teamwork and communication skills; ability to communicate clearly and professionally

 

WHY WORK WITH US

• Make a meaningful impact on the health and development of young children
• Supportive, community-focused work environment
• Consistent part-time hours with opportunities to support special events
• Be part of a culturally grounded early childhood program

 

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and references. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to apply.

As per Section 16 of the Federal Charter of Human Rights Act, preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal

Ancestry.

 

Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter and resume to:

Attention: Conayt Friendship Society, Head Start Program

PO Box 1989, 2164 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC V1K1B8

 

Email: [email protected]

 

Deadline: open until position filled

 

** All resumes will be carefully reviewed, however, only those applicants invited to an interview will be contacted.