Food Service Cook - Upbring

At Upbring, our team is united by a shared mission: to break the cycle of child abuse and empower others to do the same. As servant-leaders, we lead by example, working passionately to create a brighter future for the children and families we serve. Every day, we strive to embody our core values:

• We are Warriors: Fierce, resilient, and courageous, we face challenges head-on with unwavering loyalty and passion.
• We are Servants: We dedicate ourselves to serving others, empowering those around us to thrive.
• We are Family: We work together as a supportive, caring community, creating a sense of belonging and strength.

Joining Upbring means becoming part of a family of passionate individuals who are fearless in their pursuit of lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.

What You'll Do

The primary job duty of the Food Service Cook is to prep, prepare, and serve meals according to the planned meal schedule and maintain a clean, sanitized, and safe work environment in accordance with Child and Adult Care Food Program, Upbring policies, Minimum Standards for Child-Care Centers, Head Start Performance Standards, other federal, state, county, and local regulatory requirements

*This position is year-round

• Prep, prepare, and serve planned meals according to proper preparation methods
• Ensure the proper amount of food is available for teachers and children during scheduled mealtime
• Ensure all kitchen and related equipment are cleaned using prescribed products in accordance to safety guidelines and in good operating condition
• Cooking equipment, dishes and utensils must be washed and sanitized according to department standards and stored appropriately daily
• Assist in transporting and serving meals in accordance with the Child Adult Food Care Program (CACFP)Ensure the proper amount of food is available for teachers and children during scheduled mealtime
• Ensure all areas are clean, safe and properly sanitized and carries trash to outside dumpster for disposal
• Dispose leftovers and assist in managing and maintaining fresh food products
• Staff must not use/impose corporal punishment or other forms of child maltreatment as a method to discipline children
• Comply with the company code of conduct and other applicable regulations and requirements, including Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), Upbring policies, and procedures, Child Care Minimum Standards, HSPPS regulations and standards, and other federal, state, and local regulatory requirements and laws
• Always ensure the health and safety of each child in care, and support the overall well-being of children
• Immediately communicate with supervisor all concerns related to child health and safety
• Under the Center Directors’ leadership ensure operations are effectively and efficiently supporting and meeting the health and nutritional needs of the children and center staff
• Maintains assigned agency vehicle(s) using checklist.
• All other duties and special projects as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Current Food Handler Certification
• 1-year experience as a cook, kitchen assistant, or in food preparation
• Valid Texas Driver’s license and proof of auto insurance; ability to meet Agency insurance provider guidelines as an insured and approved driver
• Maintain a good driving record and the ability to drive and navigate in varied geographical areas and during various weather conditions
• Working knowledge of safety, sanitation, and food handling procedures required by city, state, and county health department regulations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people
• Familiarity with basic computer skills, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

Preferred Qualifications

• 2-years experience in food services industry

Perks at Upbring

• Competitive PTO & paid holidays 
• Health, dental, vision insurance & more! 
• 403(b) Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• 24/7 access to telemedicine and counseling services 
• Discounted Gym Memberships 

Physical Demands & Work Conditions

• This position requires physical activity such as occasional sitting, frequent standing, and walking. Position may work in a child facility and have limited exposure to children
• Lift, push, pull or move up to 50 lbs

The physical requirements for this position with or without reasonable accommodation are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this position successfully. While performing this position the employee with or without reasonable accommodation should have the ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, speak, and hear with aid, see, read, reach with arms and hands, lift and/or move up to specified weight, and use equipment that is essential to performing the job, such as a computer, copier, fax machine, telephone, and automobile, if applicable. Specific vision requirements of this position may include color vision, seeing things close up, and the ability to adjust focus.

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Belonging  

We are a diverse and inclusive Organization that recognizes our strength is in the efforts of our selfless warriors. Honoring and recognizing the value and dignity of all individuals is the cornerstone of our agency. The more diverse the individuals, thought processes and lived experiences, the greater the opportunity is to combine unique perspectives to make a greater impact. Our trust, respect, and appreciation for one another is demonstrated through our communication, celebration of progress and relentless effort to be at our best TO FULLFILL OUR MISSION OF BREAKING THE CYCLE OF CHILD ABUSE.

Upbring is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.