Welcome to Learning Care Group – Where Every Meal Fuels a Child’s Future
At Learning Care Group, Inc., we are more than a leading for‑profit child‑care provider; we are a community of educators, caregivers, and culinary professionals dedicated to shaping the next generation. As the second‑largest early‑education network in North America, our eight distinct brands serve children from six weeks old up to twelve years, delivering state‑of‑the‑art facilities, cutting‑edge technology, and research‑backed curricula. Our mission is simple yet profound: make a positive impact on every child, family, and community we touch each day.
We understand that nutrition is the cornerstone of learning, growth, and overall well‑being. That’s why we are seeking an enthusiastic, caring, and skilled Daycare Culinary Specialist who will also serve as a supportive classroom assistant. This dual‑role blends culinary expertise with a passion for early childhood education, ensuring that every child receives nutritious, delicious meals while enjoying a safe, nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and development.
Position Overview – Culinary Specialist & Classroom Assistant
Title: Daycare Culinary Specialist & Classroom Support Professional (Full‑Time, Immediate Start)
Location: Phoenix, AZ (E Bell Rd Campus) – On‑site (Remote work not applicable)
Reporting To: Center Director and Kitchen Manager
Compensation: Competitive salary, commensurate with experience, plus comprehensive benefits package
This role is pivotal to our mission. You will design, prepare, and serve balanced meals that meet USDA, state, and local licensing requirements while also stepping into the classroom as an assistant teacher or floater when needed. Your creativity in the kitchen and your ability to engage with children will directly contribute to a vibrant, health‑focused learning environment.
Key Responsibilities – Culinary Excellence Meets Classroom Support
- Menu Planning & Development
- Craft home‑style, nutritionally balanced meal plans that align with the center’s menu framework, budget constraints, and federal/state regulations.
- Collaborate with the Director and Nutrition Coordinator to incorporate seasonal produce, cultural celebrations, and dietary restrictions (e.g., allergies, vegetarian, gluten‑free).
- Update menus quarterly, ensuring variety and adherence to the latest USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines.
- Meal Preparation & Service
- Prepare breakfast, lunch, and snack items for up to 100 children and staff members each day, maintaining high standards of taste, hygiene, and presentation.
- Label foods clearly, indicating ingredients and potential allergens, and ensure proper portion controls.
- Distribute meals efficiently to classrooms, adhering to strict schedules to support smooth transitions between learning and eating times.
- Health, Safety & Sanitation
- Follow all food safety protocols, including temperature control, proper storage, and regular sanitization of kitchen equipment and surfaces.
- Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of state licensing regulations, health department codes, and CACFP compliance requirements.
- Conduct daily kitchen inspections, complete log sheets, and report any concerns to the Director promptly.
- Inventory Management & Procurement
- Track inventory levels of perishables, non‑perishables, and kitchen supplies using our digital inventory system.
- Place orders with approved vendors, negotiate for cost‑effective pricing, and verify deliveries for accuracy and freshness.
- Conduct monthly inventory audits and adjust ordering patterns based on consumption trends and waste reduction goals.
- Classroom Assistance & Floater Duties
- Step into the classroom as a certified assistant teacher when required, supporting lesson plans, facilitating group activities, and supervising children during transitions.
- Assist teachers with setting up learning stations, preparing materials, and providing one‑on‑one guidance to children, especially during mealtime routines.
- Promote nutrition education by leading simple, age‑appropriate discussions about food groups, healthy choices, and mindful eating.
- Collaboration & Communication
- Partner closely with the Center Director, teachers, and administrative staff to synchronize meal times with curriculum schedules.
- Provide regular updates to parents regarding menu changes, nutrition initiatives, and any special dietary accommodations.
- Participate in weekly staff meetings, contributing ideas for program enhancements, menu innovation, and overall center improvement.
Essential Qualifications – What You Must Bring
- Education & Certifications
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Early Childhood Education, or related field preferred.
- Food Safety Manager (FSM) certification or ServSafe certification preferred.
- Current CPR/First Aid certification for infants and children.
- Experience
- Minimum of 2 years of professional cooking, catering, or food‑service experience, preferably in a childcare, school, or early‑education setting.
- Demonstrated ability to prepare meals for large groups while adhering to strict nutritional guidelines.
- Previous experience as an assistant teacher, teacher’s aide, or classroom floater is highly valued.
- Skills & Abilities
- Strong knowledge of child nutrition standards, USDA CACFP regulations, and state licensing requirements.
- Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail in inventory control and menu planning.
- Effective communication skills—able to interact confidently with children, parents, and staff.
- Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lb, and move safely in a busy kitchen environment.
- Flexibility to adapt to shifting schedules, menu changes, and occasional after‑hours events.
Preferred Qualifications – The Extras That Set You Apart
- Certification in Early Childhood Development or a related field.
- Training in allergy management and special‑diet accommodations.
- Experience with farm‑to‑table sourcing or sustainable food practices.
- Proficiency with kitchen management software (e.g., KitchenBoard, ServiceEdge).
- Background in nutrition education or ability to lead interactive food‑related activities for children.
Core Competencies – Skills for Success
- Team Collaboration: Works seamlessly with teaching staff, administrators, and external vendors.
- Problem Solving: Anticipates challenges (e.g., supply shortages) and implements proactive solutions.
- Creativity: Introduces new recipes and presentation ideas that excite children while meeting health standards.
- Time Management: Executes meal preparation and classroom assistance within tight daily timelines.
- Empathy & Patience: Connects with children of varying ages, understanding their individual needs and preferences.
Why Join Learning Care Group? – Your Career Path & Growth Opportunities
At Learning Care Group, we invest in our people as much as we invest in the children we serve. When you become part of our team, you gain access to a robust professional development ecosystem designed to nurture your culinary and educational passions.
- Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement for culinary, nutrition, or early‑education courses; access to internal workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs.
- Career Advancement: Clear pathways from Culinary Specialist to Kitchen Manager, Director of Nutrition, or Center Director roles within our network of over 500 locations.
- Leadership Training: Participation in our Leadership Academy to refine management, budgeting, and staff‑development skills.
- Recognition Programs: Quarterly awards celebrating culinary innovation, safety excellence, and community involvement.
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off, paid parental leave, and employee assistance programs.
- Community Impact: Opportunities to lead nutrition education outreach, cooking demonstrations for families, and partnership events with local farms and health agencies.
Our Work Environment – A Culture of Care, Collaboration, and Creativity
Our Phoenix campus is a bright, modern facility designed with children’s safety and learning in mind. The kitchen boasts state‑of‑the‑art appliances, an organized prep area, and a dedicated hand‑washing station to uphold the highest hygiene standards. The classrooms are vibrant, age‑appropriate, and equipped with interactive technology that complements our research‑based curriculum.
We foster an inclusive atmosphere where every staff member feels valued and empowered to contribute ideas. Regular team‑building activities, staff appreciation events, and open‑door communication with leadership ensure that you have the support you need to thrive both professionally and personally.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits – What You’ll Receive
- Competitive Salary: Starting at $38,000–$45,000 annually, based on experience and credentials.
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, vision insurance with employer contributions.
- Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company matching.
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, holidays, and paid parental leave.
- Professional Growth: Access to tuition reimbursement, certification courses, and internal training.
- Employee Discounts: Reduced tuition for children enrolled in Learning Care Group centers, and discounts on partner products and services.
- Wellness Programs: On‑site wellness challenges, mental‑health resources, and employee assistance counseling.
How to Apply – Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Career
If you are passionate about nutrition, love working with children, and are excited to make a lasting impact on a thriving early‑learning community, we want to hear from you! Please submit your résumé, a brief cover letter outlining your culinary philosophy and any classroom experience, and copies of relevant certifications through our online portal.
Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, and we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to secure this immediate‑start position.
Join us in feeding minds, bodies, and futures.
At Learning Care Group, your culinary talent becomes a catalyst for learning. Together, we’ll cultivate healthy habits, spark curiosity, and nurture the next generation of leaders.
Apply Now – Start Your Journey Today ``` Apply Now