Preschool Chef/Classroom Floater

Austin

**Benefits:** * Competitive salary * Dental insurance * Employee discounts * Health insurance * Paid time off * Signing bonus * Training \& development * Tuition assistance * Vision insurance * Free uniforms *We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Lead Teacher to join our AMAZING team.* As **Preschool Cook \& Floater Teacher**, you are a TLE Happiness creator and an ambassador of happiness. This role makes a difference in the lives of children, their families, and our community in two ways: by preparing nutritious, delicious daily meals for our children, and by providing flexible classroom support across the center. In the kitchen, the Preschool Cook \& Floater Teacher plans, prepares, and serves healthy meals that meet nutritional requirements while keeping every child with a food allergy safe. In the classroom, the Preschool Cook \& Floater Teacher helps teachers maintain a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment, assists teachers as needed, helps maintain ratios, and supports daily operations while following the center's curriculum and licensing requirements. ++Duties and Responsibilities++ **Kitchen** * Plan, prepare, and cook healthy, delicious meals and snacks for children that meet proper nutritional requirements. * Maintain and track food allergies for each child in the center, and communicate identified allergies to teachers with every food delivery. * Follow proper food safety, handling, storage, and sanitation procedures. * Collaborate with center leadership to purchase food and supplies, and keep inventory records as local and state agencies require. * Keep the kitchen clean, organized, and inspection-ready. **Classroom Support** * Provide classroom coverage during breaks, staff absences, and peak times to keep daily operations running smoothly. * Maintain state-required staff-to-child ratios at all times. * Assist lead and assistant teachers with daily classroom activities and routines. * Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being. * Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment by upholding TLE Austin Mueller's high standards for organized classrooms, so children can explore and learn with confidence. **Across the Center** * Collaborate with fellow teachers and staff to support a positive, joyful learning environment and strong center culture. * Provide excellent customer service and a positive attitude toward parents and children; listen and communicate effectively. * Communicate any concerns about children, classroom operations, food safety, or general safety to center leadership promptly. * Be flexible and adaptable to the daily needs of a childcare center, moving between the kitchen and classrooms as needed. * Participate in all required staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and training sessions. **Qualifications** * High School Diploma or equivalent (mandatory) * 1 year of experience in food preparation and cooking * Food handler certificate, or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire * CPR/First Aid certification * Familiarity with the Texas Minimum Standards * Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate practices * Ability to pass background checks * A "Happy Happens Here" attitude: this is a fast-paced role that moves between the kitchen and the classroom **Working Conditions** This is a full-time, hourly position in a licensed childcare environment, serving children ages 6 weeks through 6 years. Time is split between the center kitchen and classrooms based on daily needs. **Physical Requirements** * Lift at least 40 pounds * Walk up and down stairs * Stand for extended periods while preparing and serving meals; Sit on the floor for extended periods * Sit, stand, bend, and interact with children at their level for extended periods * Perform cleaning and physical activity related to kitchen and classroom upkeep Join our awesome team at The Learning Experience Mueller and help make a difference. Apply now to become our **Preschool Cook \& Floater Teacher**!