Childcare Aide/Cook

Summary

The Child Care Aide supports the lead teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for young children. This role involves assisting with daily routines, supervising play and activities, promoting positive behavior, and ensuring each child’s physical and emotional needs are met. The aide helps maintain classroom cleanliness, prepares materials for learning activities, and fosters a warm, supportive atmosphere for children and families.

The Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks for all children in accordance with state and CACFP guidelines. This position ensures the kitchen and food storage areas are clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety regulations. The cook manages food inventory, maintains sanitation records, and accommodates special dietary needs while contributing to a healthy, positive environment for children and staff.

Duties

Supervise children during playtime, meals, rest, and transitions.
Assist with implementing daily lesson plans and activities.
Support children in developing self-help skills (toileting, dressing, handwashing, etc.).
Help maintain classroom order, routines, and positive behavior management.
Prepare learning materials and activity centers as directed by the lead teacher.
Observe and report any unusual behavior or developmental concerns to the lead teacher or director.
Assist with diapering, toileting, and ensuring cleanliness standards are met.
Maintain a safe and clean classroom (sanitize toys, wipe tables, sweep floors).
Greet children and parents warmly, supporting smooth drop-off and pick-up routines.
Participate in staff meetings, training, and center events as needed.
Plan and prepare daily breakfast, lunch, and snacks according to approved menus.
Follow all food safety and sanitation standards (handwashing, temperature checks, etc.).
Keep kitchen and food storage areas clean, organized, and pest-free.
Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, and food preparation equipment after each use.
Receive and store food deliveries properly (rotate stock, check expiration dates).
Maintain accurate food temperature logs and inventory records.
Work with the director to create shopping lists and manage food budget efficiently.
Serve meals and snacks on time to each classroom.
Accommodate children with allergies or dietary restrictions as instructed.
Assist with light housekeeping in dining and kitchen areas.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED (required).
• Prior experience in a licensed childcare, preschool, or food service setting (preferred).
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days).
• Completion of state-required childcare training hours.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and safety.
• Basic understanding of child development (for aide) or nutrition/meal prep (for cook).
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and engage in active supervision of children.

Character & Work Ethic

• Dependable and punctual with a strong sense of responsibility.
• Positive, patient, and calm under pressure.
• Professional appearance and attitude.
• Respectful and compassionate toward children, families, and coworkers.
• Willingness to take direction and support the overall goals of the center.

Compliance & Safety

• Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprint clearance.
• Must complete health screening and TB test prior to employment.
• Adhere to confidentiality and safety regulations at all times.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace.

Nice To Haves

For the Child Care Aide

• Associate’s degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.
• Experience with lesson planning, circle time, or classroom management.
• Familiarity with Creative Curriculum or other early learning frameworks.
• Training in behavior guidance, social-emotional learning, or special needs support.
• Experience creating arts-and-craft activities, sensory bins, or learning centers.

For the Cook

• Food Handler’s or ServSafe certification.
• Experience preparing meals for children in a childcare or school setting.
• Knowledge of CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) meal pattern requirements.
• Ability to develop or adjust menus to meet allergy or dietary needs.
• Familiarity with portion control and food budgeting for groups.
• Experience organizing kitchen inventory and managing vendor relationships.
• Creativity in making healthy meals appealing for young children.
• A nurturing personality and genuine passion for supporting children’s growth.
• Flexibility to assist in classrooms when needed or adapt to changing schedules.
• Reliability, good attitude, and a strong sense of teamwork.
• Desire for long-term growth within the childcare field (training, advancement, etc.).
• Active participation in center events, family nights, and holiday activities.

Benefits

Paid holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, July 4th)
Paid time off (PTO) or personal days after a probationary (90) period
Employee appreciation days and birthday celebrations.
Holiday gatherings, team lunches, or spirit weeks.
Relaxed, family-style environment where staff feel valued and supported.