Summary
Description
SMILES Childcare Chef
Full Time Position, 40 hours per week
Competitive salary and benefits package
SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Childcare Facility Chef is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks for children in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, and food safety regulations. This role ensures that meals meet children's nutritional needs while accommodating allergies, cultural preferences, and special dietary requirements. The Chef maintains a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment, follows all health and safety protocols, and works collaboratively with the childcare team to support the overall well-being of the children in care.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Menu Planning & Compliance
- Plan menus based on the Canada Food Guide, Centre philosophy, and Child Care Licensing Regulation.
- Submit weekly menus to Program Director for approval one week in advance.
- Post dated menus weekly; update any changes with prior approval.
- Ensure menus include nutritious items and exclude prohibited foods as per Alberta Health Services guidelines.
- Plan special dietary menus for allergies, restrictions, or medical needs.
Food Preparation & Service
- Prepare all snacks and lunches daily, including food for field trips when requested.
- Use proper food handling to maintain freshness, safety, and proper use of leftovers.
- Clean and sanitize all dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment after each use.
Purchasing & Inventory
- Order and shop for all food supplies, groceries, and kitchen equipment in consultation with the Program Director.
- Manage kitchen budget responsibly and cost-effectively.
- Purchase groceries only from pre-approved vendors.
- Maintain up-to-date recipe files for use during absences.
Kitchen Sanitation & Safety
- Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment following health and safety standards.
- Dispose of expired or unsafe food properly.
Communication & Collaboration
- Communicate any concerns or issues related to kitchen operations to the Program Director.
- Collaborate with childcare staff to support the Centre's philosophy and activities.
- Participate in staff meetings and assist with food preparation for staff events or special occasions.
- Maintain a professional relationship with all those involved with SMILES including parents, children, staff, administration, and suppliers.
Administrative Duties
- Maintain accurate attendance and inform office staff upon arrival and departure daily.
- Perform additional related duties as assigned by the Program Director.
STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
- Ensure professional approach is aligned with CIWA values
- Maintain a positive working relationship with all staff and volunteers of CIWA
- Maintain a positive image and professional work habits and represent CIWA in a professional manner
- Demonstrate a high level of initiative and enthusiasm
- Keep all team members up to date about relevant information
- Attend and participate in CIWA events
- Encourage a culture of team conversation, team trust, transparency and consistency in relationship with peers
QUALIFICATIONS
- Post-Secondary training in food services and/or experience in meal preparation for groups.
- Basic knowledge of nutrition and the Canada Food Guide and a Safe Food Handling Certificate or be willing to obtain.
The successful candidate must satisfactorily complete a Police Information Check, including Vulnerable Sector Search. CIWA does not cover this cost. Satisfactory completion of a Intervention Record Check is also required.
CIWA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. To request accommodation, please contact Careers@ciwa-online.com in advance of your interview.
The Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds. We thank all interested candidates in advance but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
