Childcare Cook & Food Program Coordinator at The… · Colorado…

The Lighthouse Early Care and Education is a licensed child care center that combines a play-based atmosphere and early childhood education into one culture.

About The Lighthouse

At The Lighthouse Early Care and Education, we're more than a childcare center. We're a family. Our children, families, and staff are at the heart of everything we do, and we work hard to build a place where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and valued. We're a growing, licensed center in Colorado Springs, and we believe that when our team is cared for, they give children their very best. Here, you won't be just another employee. You'll be part of a team that celebrates each other, supports each other, and shows up for one another.

About the Role

Do you love cooking and want your work to make a real difference? We're looking for a Cook to prepare healthy, kid-friendly meals and snacks for the children in our care. Good nutrition is the fuel little ones need to learn, play, and grow, and you'll be the one making that happen every day.

Beyond the kitchen, you'll handle our grocery trips, keep track of receipts and purchase documentation, and learn to submit claims for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We'll provide training, so if you're organized, dependable, and love feeding kids well, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

In the Kitchen

• Prepare and serve nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks that follow CACFP meal pattern guidelines
• Adjust portions for each age group, from infants to school-age children
• Safely accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions
• Keep a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen that meets health and licensing standards
• Maintain temperature logs and other required kitchen records

Purchasing and CACFP

• Make regular grocery trips to buy food and kitchen supplies within budget
• Receive deliveries and keep inventory stocked
• Track and organize all food receipts and purchase documentation
• Complete CACFP claim documentation, including meal counts, production records, and menus (training provided)

With Our Team

• Partner with teachers and leadership to create positive, happy mealtimes for children
• Bring a warm, encouraging presence to the children and families we serve

What We're Looking For

• Experience in food preparation (childcare, school, or institutional kitchen experience is a plus)
• Food handler certification, or willingness to obtain it within [30] days
• Knowledge of safe food handling and allergy awareness
• Strong organization and attention to detail, especially with paperwork and record-keeping
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for grocery trips
• Comfort with basic computer or tablet use for submitting records
• A dependable, team-oriented attitude and a genuine love for kids
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to [40] lbs
• Ability to pass a background check as required by Colorado childcare licensing

Why You'll Love Working Here

• A family-oriented culture where you're known, appreciated, and supported
• A leadership team that invests in your growth and development
• Paid training, including CACFP training
• Meaningful work that directly shapes the health and happiness of children
• [Benefits: e.g., paid time off, childcare discount, mileage reimbursement, free meals]

Ready to Join Our Family?

If you're passionate about good food, love kids, and want to be part of a team that feels like home, we want to hear from you! [Apply instructions, e.g., send your resume to email or apply through Indeed.]

The Lighthouse Early Care and Education is an equal opportunity employer.