Culinary Chef

**Culinary Chef**

Terra Early Learning is a brand new, innovative, early years centre with a progressive educational approach. Our unique integrated curriculum is grounded by the pedagogical approaches of sustainable development, inquiry, outdoor learning, Montessori, and play-based learning, all of which are incorporated into our experiential curriculum.

**The Opportunity**

The mission of our Food and Beverage Department is to provide and prepare fresh, delicious and wholesome meals for our students and staff. We are seeking a chef with a passion for creating healthy meals to support the development of nutritious eating habits, and encourage lifelong habits of healthy eating for our children.

Part of our vision for the students at Terra Early Learning is for the children to be actively involved in the process of growing their own food; planting and harvesting fruits and vegetables, maintaining a herb garden, and being mindful of sustainable food growth, waste and composting practices. We are seeking a chef who is willing to work alongside the students and educators, to help bring this vision of sustainable food practices to life.

**The Role**

As the Culinary Chef, you will:

- Develop a strong understanding of Terra’s school culture, and what sets us apart from other early learning centers.
- Prepare, plan and make quality and nutritious meals that align with Terra’s values, mission and culture.
- Lead the charge on making sustainable food choices, which will guide our menu decisions, including sourcing fresh, local ingredients, and seasonal foods.
- Select food from approved sources and from credible suppliers.
- Order and arrange delivery of ingredients and products weekly to ensure food is fresh, per food safety guidelines.
- A commitment to preparing quality meals; breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks.
- Educate and elevate childrens’ palates to different foods, tastes, textures, etc.
- Develop a rotating menu and communicate the daily and monthly menus to students, staff and families, factoring in individual dietary and nutritional needs, allergies, preferences, etc.
- Assist in educating the children on where their food comes from, what is in their food, and how different foods will affect their bodies.
- Store, prepare and serve food adhering to all Provincial and Municipal Food-Safe handling procedures, including proper temperature controls and sanitary practices.
- Enable efficient kitchen operations by ensuring a consistently safe, organized, clean and functioning space during food preparation.
- Maintain inventory and record of food, supplies and equipment.
- Assist team members to serve and pack meals, as required.
- Recognize opportunities for learning and growth daily, with a commitment to uphold our mission and vision towards sustainable living.
- Engage in collaborative partnership with educators and leaders regarding menu planning and adjustment.
- Establish contacts and manage relationships with our community.

**The Qualifications**

The Culinary Chef has:

- Applicable Food Safe handling certification.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Possesses excellent time management skills and has the ability to prioritize and multitask_. _
- Ability to thrive in a creation, growth-stage environment.
- Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to work independently.
- Well-organized, adaptable, flexible, and maintains effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks.
- Demonstrates strong attention to detail and is results oriented.
- Actively participates as a member of the team toward the completion of goals, and towards a positive and professional work place.
- Possesses an entrepreneurial spirit, is self-motivated, takes initiative, and continuously achieves great results.
- Forward-looking thinker, who actively seeks opportunities and proposes solutions.
- Problem-solver and thinks critically in an integrated manner, while presenting innovative ideas.
- Embodies a growth mindset, recognizing opportunities for learning and growth daily.
- Has a passion for building and maintaining relationships with staff and children.
- Experience in working in a child care centre kitchen is an asset.

**Commitment**
- 30 - 35 hours per week
- Permanent

**The Perks**

Some of the industry-leading benefits you will receive working at Terra Early Learning.
- Salary commensurate with education and experience
- Extended health and dental benefits
- Two weeks paid holiday annually
- Five paid sick days annually
- Meals included
- Public and bank holidays and holiday increase with service and seniority
- Professional development budget
- Growth mindset environment

**Job Type**: Permanent

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Schedule:

- Day shift
- Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Richmond, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting