Head Start Cook

BACKGROUND CHECKS: Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission is a drug-free employer. Drug testing of both current staff and new hires will be conducted. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of Driver's Record Check, Criminal Background Check, Drug Test, and Employment References. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Uses and operates standard kitchen equipment and proper meal preparation techniques to cook breakfast, lunch and p.m. snacks for Head Start Centers. Follows Federal/State food sanitation regulations at site. 2. Keeps site kitchen clean and orderly. Cleans utensils, dishes, pots and pans, cambros and appliances after use; cleans and sweeps cooking areas. 3. Inform Head Cook when chemicals needed are running low. 4. Ensure that dishwasher maintains appropriate temperature for each cycle. Load and unload dishwasher dish trays. Clean dishwasher, floor, and work area between each use. 5. When necessary, collect soiled dishes from classrooms. Dispose of excess waste in a safe and healthy manner. 6. Train a substitute for when needed. 7. Perform janitorial duties when needed. 8. Launder soiled linens as needed. 9. Cooperates with teaching staff to assure that classes receive adequate food and appropriate utensils and dishes for each meal. 10. Under guidance of site cook performs duties required to maintain safe, high-quality, cost-effective food service. 11. Under guidance of site cook perform duties required for paperwork, ordering of food, checking food in, inventory, and all other areas required. 12. Assist in the maintenance and proper use of all kitchen equipment. 13. Will transport food to needed sites as needed. 14. Perform other related work as assigned by Head Cook or supervisory staff. 15. Follow all established safety procedures with caution while performing duties. 16. May be required to work hours other than normally worked in order to adhere to and stay in compliance with regulations stated within the Head Start Performance Standards 17. Due to program needs, least senior employee in a position must accept Re-Call from Seasonal Lay Off or unemployment will be terminated and discharge will follow. 18. Operate in full compliance with the Ohio Heartland CAC Head Start Child Positive Behavior Support Policy that prohibits corporal punishment. NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Complete and disperse appropriate paperwork in a timely manner. 2. Participate in all appropriate training and meetings. 3. Work in cooperation with other Head Start staff. 4. Actively promote the Head Start program and recruit families year-round. 5. Transfer of site assignment when necessary for the operation of the program when management finds it appropriate. 6. Operate in full compliance with OHCAC Disciplinary Policy. 7. Perform any duty as assigned in order to meet or stay in compliance with state or federal regulations. 8. Maintain neat and clean appearance. 9. Refrain from negative communication with families, children and staff. 10. Participate in non-required workshops, education, and training within when possible for personal and professional growth. 11. Actively promote agency programs and assist families. 12. Participate in a team process both within the department and the corporation. 13. Attend internal and external meetings, representing the agency in external meetings as required. 14. Maintain a safe driving record and have reliable transportation. 15. Out-of-town travel with occasional overnight stays. 16. Availability to work in excess of 37.5 hours per week in order to fulfill position requirements. 17. Adhere to all OHCAC Personnel Policies and Procedures and all written agency policies. 18. Drug and alcohol testing to be conducted as required by OHCAC and funding source. 19. State and federal criminal checks to be conducted as required by funding source and OHCAC. ACCOUNTABILITY: 1. The Cook is accountable to the Health/Nutrition Specialist. 2. Video and audio recordings will be made during Head Start activities and observations and will be used for public relations, professional development, training and/or possible disciplinary action.