Kitchen Supervisor/Lead Cook

Job Summary

The Kitchen Supervisor ensures that children receive nutritious, appealing meals and snacks prepared in a sanitary and developmentally appropriate manner. This role involves planning, preparing, and delivering meals for family-style service in classrooms, maintaining compliance with the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and assisting with managing food purchasing and recordkeeping. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Multiple years of supervisory experience in institutional food service and commercial kitchen, preferably in a non-profit environment


• Ability to lift and move objects up to 45 lbs.


• Ability to stand for extended periods


• Maintain current Manager’s Food Preparation Certification


• Knowledge of USDA and Head Start compliance standards


• High school diploma required

Key Responsibilities

• Use cooking methods that preserve nutrients and meet sanitation standards.


• Deliver meals to classrooms ready for family-style service.


• Assist with maintaining accurate records in compliance with CACFP, Delegate Agency, and Grantee requirements.


• Organize kitchen operations efficiently, ensuring timely meal service and inventory control.

Essential Functions

Staff Supervision

Oversees all dietary staff and assigns tasks to ensure efficient kitchen operations

Conducts employee performance reviews

Fosters a teamwork-oriented environment

Meal Planning & Preparation

Plans and prepares meals following CACFP and Head Start Food Service Policy, approved menus, and recipes

Purchasing & Inventory

Assist with ordering food and supplies based on enrollment numbers and staff needs

Assist with maintaining cost control and inventory systems in line with CACFP procedures

Assist with keeping records of food production, service, and attendance

Menu Modifications

Plans meals in advance to reduce substitutions

Documents all changes for CACFP compliance

Food Quality & Safety

Prepares meals to preserve nutrients and enhance taste and presentation

Delivers food to classrooms in age-appropriate portions and formats

Maintains sanitation and safety standards per local and state health regulations

Ensures proper care and maintenance of kitchen equipment and assists with purchasing needs

Inclusive Nutrition

Adapts recipes to meet the needs of infants, toddlers, and children with disabilities or allergies

Team Collaboration

Shares cooking responsibilities with the Assistant Cook to support smooth kitchen operations

Working Conditions

Indoor work environment, commercial kitchen.

Note: This job description outlines key responsibilities but is not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.