Childcare Cook

Centre Cook 

Love creating delicious, nutritious food and making a difference in children's everyday lives?

The Fern Early Learning Centre Balwyn North is seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Centre Cook to join our brand-new early learning centre.

As our Centre Cook, you'll play an important part in creating a happy, healthy environment for children by preparing fresh, nutritious and delicious meals each day. You'll have the opportunity to bring your creativity to the kitchen while catering to a variety of dietary requirements and helping children develop positive relationships with food.

You'll be joining a warm and supportive team that values great food, wellbeing and the important role food plays in children's learning, development and enjoyment.

About the Role 

• Prepare nutritious, delicious meals and snacks that support children's growth and development. 

• Follow expert-designed menus developed in consultation with nutritionists while maintaining high food quality and presentation. 

• Prepare meals for children with diverse dietary requirements, allergies, anaphylaxis, and cultural food preferences. 

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organised kitchen in line with food safety standards and regulations. 

• Manage food ordering, stock rotation, and kitchen supplies efficiently. 

• Work collaboratively with educators and centre leadership to support children's health and wellbeing. 

• Demonstrate excellent time management while working in a fast-paced environment. 

• Maintain exceptional attention to detail to ensure every meal meets the highest standards of quality and safety. 

Why Work With Us? 

• Competitive package (negotiable for the right candidate) *

• Join a supportive, values-driven workplace where everything we do is guided by our values: Create, Aspire, Respect, and Empower. 

• Work alongside a passionate team committed to creating positive outcomes for children and families. 

• Access ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities. 

• Enjoy generous staff benefits, including childcare discounts and the i9 Lifestyle rewards program. 

• Work in a modern, welcoming centre within a vibrant local community. 

• Make a meaningful impact by supporting healthy eating habits during children's early years. 

What You'll Bring 

• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent qualification). 

• Food Handler's Certificate or Food Safety Supervisor Certificate. 

• Minimum 2 years' experience working as a cook within an early childhood education and care setting. 

• Experience preparing meals for children with diverse dietary requirements, allergies, and anaphylaxis. 

• A valid Working with Children Check. 

• Full Australian working rights. 

• A genuine passion for children's health, nutrition, and wellbeing. 

About Us 

We're a family-owned early learning group revitalising centres across Victoria, grounded in care, community, and educator support. 

We celebrate diversity and are committed to child safety through our SafeSteps framework, ensuring safe and inclusive environments every day. 

Our values: Create. Aspire. Respect. Empower. 

We are building a strong team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering high-quality care and education. 

If you're passionate about good food and love creating meals that children enjoy, we'd love to hear from you!

Not quite the right role? 

We're always keen to connect with experienced Early Childhood professionals for future opportunities across our Victorian centres. Submit your CV to ******@i9.edu.au for confidential consideration.