Daycare Chef Full Time at Center near SI Ferry

In-House Daycare Chef (Full-Time)

Are you passionate about preparing nourishing meals for children and creating a positive mealtime experience? We are looking for a warm, reliable, and health-conscious In-House Chef to join our team and support the wellness of our little learners through wholesome food!

At The Learning Experience, we believe that healthy eating habits start early. Our in-house chef plays a vital role in ensuring children aged 14 enjoy nutritious, scratch-prepared meals that are thoughtfully planned, responsibly sourced, and prepared with care.

Our Food Philosophy

We are committed to:

• Offering freshly prepared, in-house meals and snacks using simple, clean ingredients.
• Serving foods that are organic, minimally processed, and free from harmful additives.
• Using available kitchen equipment (convection microwave ovens, crock pots, blender, refrigerator, freezer) in line with NYC DOH Article 47 regulations.
• Meeting the nutritional needs of children aged 14 with age-appropriate textures.

Ingredients That Are Not Permitted:

• Nuts or nut-based products (we are a nut-free facility)
• Pork or pork-derived ingredients
• Raw or undercooked eggs
• Artificial dyes (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5)
• Artificial and "natural" flavors
• High fructose corn syrup
• Dextrose
• Hydrogenated oils / trans fats
• MSG or sodium nitrates
• BHA, BHT, or other synthetic preservatives
• Excessive salt, sugar, or additives

All food items should include no more than 35 ingredients. We encourage sourcing clean-label, whole food ingredients and providing organic options wherever possible.

Responsibilities Include:

• Prepares sauces and meals from scratch; creativity and fun food ideas are encouraged!
• Support family events with food prep and event planning
• Plan weekly menus using our online template; submit by Thursday for family distribution on Friday
• Prepare daily meals/snacks in-house for children ages 14
• Morning food prep and kitchen setup (details TBA)
• Clean kitchen and sanitize surfaces at end of shift
• Maintain cleanliness and restock basics in the staff lounge
• Track inventory and monitor food storage
• Order supplies and stay within budget
• Follow NYC DOH Article 47 health & safety standards
• Track and communicate food allergies with teachers daily
• Follow safe food handling, sanitation, and storage practices
• Collaborate with leadership to maintain inventory records
• Communicate with parents and staff professionally
• Adapt to the daily needs of the childcare center

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2+ year of experience in food preparation and cooking
• Valid NYC Food Handler's Certificate (or ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire)
• Passion for children's health and nutrition
• Excellent organization and cleanliness standards
• Ability to lift a minimum of 30 lbs
• Comfortable with food prep using convection microwave ovens and crock pots

Why Join Us?

At The Learning Experience, we're more than just a preschool we're a family. As a Preschool Chef, you'll be an ambassador of happiness and make a meaningful impact through healthy food and care. You'll be welcomed into a supportive environment where your creativity and passion for wellness can shine. Help us create a place where children feel excited to eat, learn, and grow!