Childcare Culinary Operations Specialist & Nutrition-Focused Kitchen Educator – Full‑Time Position at Tutor Time of West Haven (Learning Care Group)
Welcome to Tutor Time of West Haven – Where Culinary Excellence Meets Early Education
Imagine a workplace where every day you blend the art of cooking with the mission of shaping young minds. At Tutor Time of West Haven, a proud member of the Learning Care Group family, we’re dedicated to providing a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment for children from six weeks to twelve years old. Our center isn’t just a daycare—it’s a vibrant community where children explore, learn, and grow, and where dedicated professionals like you get the chance to make a lasting impact through delicious, nutritious meals.
As the Childcare Kitchen Specialist, you’ll be integral to our promise of fostering healthy development. You’ll design and execute home‑style, wholesome menus that meet rigorous state, federal, and USDA standards while delighting the palates of our little diners. This role is more than a job; it’s a journey of personal growth, professional development, and meaningful contribution to a community that values education, health, and happiness.
About Learning Care Group – A Leader in Early Childhood Education
Learning Care Group (LCG) is the second‑largest for‑profit child‑care provider in North America, operating under eight distinct brands, including Tutor Time, La Petite Academy, Children’s Courtyard, and many more. With over 800 centers nationwide, we blend cutting‑edge technology, evidence‑based curricula, and top‑tier facilities to create learning environments that inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the center experience— from classroom instruction to the meals we serve. We understand that nutrition is a cornerstone of child development, and we rely on skilled culinary professionals to uphold our high standards of health, safety, and taste.
Position Overview – What It Means to Be Our Culinary Champion
The Childcare Kitchen Specialist (also known as Food Specialist) is responsible for the entire food‑service operation within the Tutor Time of West Haven campus. You will create balanced meal plans, prepare meals and snacks, manage inventory, and ensure compliance with all licensing, health, and nutrition regulations. In addition, you will occasionally assist in classroom activities, becoming a trusted member of the broader teaching team.
Key Responsibilities – Your Daily Impact
- Menu Development & Planning: Design and adapt weekly menus that align with USDA guidelines, state licensing requirements, and the center’s budgetary constraints while reflecting seasonal produce and nutritional best practices.
- Food Preparation & Service: Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and snack offerings for children and staff, ensuring portion sizes, food presentation, and temperature safety standards are consistently met.
- Health & Safety Compliance: Follow strict sanitation protocols, maintain temperature logs, conduct regular kitchen inspections, and keep comprehensive records to satisfy health department audits.
- Inventory Management: Conduct weekly inventory checks, track usage trends, and place purchase orders for fresh produce, dry goods, and kitchen supplies, minimizing waste and controlling costs.
- Classroom Support: Serve as a floating assistant teacher when needed—helping with snack distribution, assisting with activities, and fostering positive interactions between staff and children.
- Collaboration with Director & Nutritionists: Work closely with the Center Director and any on‑site nutrition consultants to align meals with curriculum themes, special dietary needs, and family preferences.
- Family Communication: Provide clear, courteous updates to parents regarding meal plans, allergens, and any changes to daily menus, reinforcing transparency and trust.
- Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on emerging nutrition trends, child‑specific dietary guidelines, and culinary techniques that can enhance the quality and appeal of meals.
Essential Qualifications – The Foundations We Seek
- Culinary Experience: Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on cooking or food‑service experience in a childcare, school, or similar institutional setting.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Certified in ServSafe® or an equivalent food safety program; demonstrated ability to implement HACCP or similar safety systems.
- Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines, state licensing regulations, and local health department requirements.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may include early mornings, late afternoons, or occasional weekend coverage to meet the center’s needs.
- Team Orientation: Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset—able to integrate smoothly with teachers, administrators, and families.
- Organizational Skills: Proven ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain meticulous records, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
- Physical Ability: Capability to lift up to 50 lb, stand for extended periods, and perform routine kitchen duties safely.
Preferred Qualifications – Extra Ingredients That Set You Apart
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Food Science, or a related field.
- Experience with menu planning for children with special dietary needs (e.g., allergies, gluten‑free, vegetarian).
- Background in early childhood education or a certification such as Child Development Associate (CDA).
- Proficiency with kitchen management software or inventory tracking platforms.
- Evidence of creative recipe development that balances nutrition and kid‑friendly flavors.
Core Skills & Competencies – What Success Looks Like
- Nutrition Literacy: Ability to translate dietary guidelines into appealing, balanced meals for young children.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous adherence to portion control, allergen separation, and cleanliness standards.
- Communication: Clear, compassionate communication with parents, staff, and vendors.
- Problem‑Solving: Quick, effective responses to unexpected challenges such as supply shortages or last‑minute menu changes.
- Time Management: Efficient workflow that ensures meals are prepared and served on schedule.
- Creative Flair: Ability to present food in visually engaging ways that encourage children to try new items.
Career Growth & Professional Development – Your Path Forward
At Learning Care Group, we view every employee as a long‑term partner in our mission. As a Culinary Specialist, you’ll have access to a structured career ladder that can lead to roles such as Kitchen Manager, Regional Food Services Supervisor, or even Director of Nutrition Services. We invest in our team through:
- Continuing Education: Tuition reimbursement for accredited culinary or nutrition programs and paid attendance at industry conferences.
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing with senior chefs and nutrition experts to refine skills and expand knowledge.
- Leadership Training: Workshops on personnel management, budgeting, and operational excellence.
- Cross‑Functional Experience: Opportunities to collaborate with curriculum designers and early‑learning specialists, broadening your impact beyond the kitchen.
Work Environment & Culture – A Place You’ll Love to Call Your Professional Home
Tutor Time of West Haven offers a supportive, family‑like atmosphere where staff members are celebrated for their contributions. Our facility features a modern, well‑equipped kitchen, spacious preparation areas, and child‑friendly dining spaces designed to promote social interaction and independence.
Key cultural hallmarks include:
- Respect & Inclusion: A diverse team where every voice is heard and valued.
- Community Engagement: Regular events that bring families and staff together—holiday celebrations, nutrition workshops, and volunteer initiatives.
- Safety First: Ongoing training in emergency procedures, first aid, and sanitization protocols.
- Work‑Life Balance: Flexible scheduling options and a focus on employee well‑being.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits – Investing in You
While exact figures are tailored to experience and qualifications, successful candidates can expect a competitive salary benchmarked to the West Haven market, along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Retirement savings options (401(k) with employer match)
- Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave
- Employee assistance programs and wellness resources
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development funds
- Employee discounts on child‑care services across the Learning Care Group network
Simple Application Process – Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Career
We’ve streamlined the application journey so you can focus on what matters most—showcasing your passion for nutrition and child development.
How to Apply:
- Click the “Apply Now” button below to access our secure application portal.
- Complete the short online form, attaching an up‑to‑date résumé and a brief cover letter describing why you’re the perfect fit for this role.
- Our recruiting team will review your submission and reach out within 48 hours to schedule a conversation.
- Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual or on‑site interview, followed by a practical kitchen demonstration.
We value diversity and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply. If you’re excited to blend culinary craftsmanship with early‑learning advocacy, we want to hear from you!
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join a team that believes nutritious meals are as essential to learning as books and play. Apply today and become a vital part of the Tutor Time of West Haven family—where every bite you prepare fuels a child’s curiosity, growth, and future success.
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