Early Childhood Department Cook

**Position Summary**

Seabird Island is committed to supporting healthy childhood development and culturally grounded education. We are seeking a Cook to join our Early Childhood Education team, preparing and delivering nutritious meals and snacks for children aged 0-12 years enrolled in our licensed programs.

Under the direction of the Director of Early Childhood Education, the Cook is responsible for planning monthly menus in alignment with the Canada Food Guide, managing food supplies and inventory, and preparing meals that accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. The Cook ensures that all health, safety, and licensing requirements are strictly followed, supporting a safe and welcoming environment for children and staff.

**What You'll Do**

**Kitchen Operations**
- Plan monthly lunch and snack menus in accordance with the Canada Food Guide and children’s nutritional needs.
- Prepare and deliver meals/snacks for on-site daycare and preschool programs.
- Always ensure kitchen cleanliness and organization, maintaining compliance with licensing and food safety regulations.
- Conduct post-meal cleanup, including dishwashing, surface sanitization, and trash disposal.
- Conduct regular inventory of kitchen equipment and supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper storage.
- Rotate food stock using FIFO (First In, First Out) methods and check expiration dates routinely.
- Provide alternative options for children with allergies, dietary restrictions, or preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan).
- Ensure meals are served on time and in sufficient quantities.

**Purchasing and Supplies**
- Purchase groceries and kitchen supplies within budget and in consultation with the ECE Director.
- Receive, unpack, and verify deliveries against orders and invoices.
- Submit receipts and related purchasing documentation according to Seabird Island Band procedures.

**Program Support**
- Maintain open communication with program staff regarding children’s dietary needs and any changes.
- Participate in fire drills and emergency procedures as required.
- Assist with the administration of first aid in emergencies, if needed.
- Report hazards or health/safety concerns promptly.
- Adhere to all licensing requirements and health/sanitation guidelines

**Other Duties**
- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

**Working / Special Conditions**
- Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
- Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively travel between our facilities and the communities we serve to support our clients and work.
- Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs and schedules of clients and community needs. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.

**What You Bring**
- A high school diploma or GED is required. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
- Formal education or training in culinary arts, food services, or a related field. Other forms of post-secondary education and training, including community-based or traditional teachings, will be considered.
- At least 2 years of relevant experience in food preparation, ideally in a childcare or early childhood setting.
- Ability to lift/unload food and supplies weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to operate kitchen equipment safely and as per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
- FoodSafe Level 1
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a focus on serving young children and families.

**Preferred**:

- Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
- Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
- Experience in menu planning and food preparation using traditional Indigenous foods or methods.
- Knowledge of principles, tools, and techniques of food service management, including planning and purchasing supplies.
- Familiarity with Community Care and Childcare Licensing Regulations.
- Ability to respond quickly and professionally to dietary needs, allergies, and culturally specific food requests.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, especially in high-paced or multitasking environments.

**Cultural Competency**:

- Understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
- Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on In