Meals Manager / Cook

Meals Manager / Cook

At Explore & Develop Rhodes, the safety, wellbeing and best interests of every child are our paramount consideration. We are committed to providing a child-safe environment where children are respected, protected and supported to thrive. We are looking for team members who share our commitment to child safety and are willing to actively participate in ongoing Child Safe practices, policies and professional learning.

Explore & Develop Rhodes is seeking an experienced, organised and passionate Meals Manager / Cook to join our dedicated team.

If you enjoy creating fresh, nutritious meals, managing a busy kitchen and making a positive impact on children's health and wellbeing, we'd love to hear from you.

About the Role

As our Meals Manager / Cook, you will be responsible for planning, preparing and cooking fresh, healthy meals from scratch for up to 82 children aged from birth to 6 years.

Working independently, you will oversee all aspects of the centre kitchen, including menu implementation, food ordering, stock control, food safety compliance and maintaining a clean, organised kitchen. You will prepare and serve morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack each day while ensuring every meal meets the dietary, cultural and allergy requirements of the children in our care.

This is a rewarding and hands-on role where you will play an important part in supporting children's growth, development and lifelong healthy eating habits.

This is a full-time position, Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 3:30pm.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook fresh, nutritious meals and snacks from scratch each day.
• Prepare meals that accommodate allergies, intolerances, medical conditions, cultural and dietary requirements.
• Order food and kitchen supplies while maintaining appropriate stock levels. Monitor food budgets and minimise waste.
• Receive, check and correctly store food deliveries and maintain a high standard of cleanliness throughout the kitchen.
• Follow and maintain the Centre's Food Safety Program and complete all required food safety documentation.
• Maintain accurate temperature logs, cleaning schedules and kitchen records. Ensure the kitchen complies with all food safety legislation and regulations.
• Assist with housekeeping duties throughout the centre, including maintaining the cleanliness and organisation of the staffroom, laundry, kitchen, pantry and storage areas.
• Work collaboratively with educators to promote healthy eating and positive mealtime experiences for children.
• Build warm, professional relationships with children, families and colleagues.

Essential Requirements

• Current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (essential).
• Minimum 1 - 2 years' experience in a commercial kitchen - childcare, aged care or similar high-volume food service environment.
• Demonstrated experience preparing fresh meals from scratch, following recipes provided.
• Strong understanding of food safety legislation and safe food handling practices.
• Experience catering for food allergies, intolerances and specialised dietary requirements.
• Excellent organisation and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a busy kitchen.
• Reliable, professional and self-motivated.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Current Working With Children Check, or willingness to obtain one – we can help you apply.
• Willingness to complete mandatory Child Safe training, including Geckko child safety training, and participate in ongoing professional development.
• A genuine commitment to child safety and wellbeing.

Desirable

• Experience as a Meals Manager at a Childcare Centre or aged care facility
• Experience managing food ordering and stock control.
• Food safety supervisor certificate.

Apply Now

If you are passionate about providing nutritious meals for children and maintaining a safe, efficient and welcoming kitchen, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your cover letter and resume to ******@exploreanddevelop.com.au.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest in joining the Explore & Develop Rhodes team.

Work Location: In person