Cook Position At Maryland Rural Development Corporation The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties' official Community Action Agency. The Cook is responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing, and well-balanced meals and snacks for children enrolled in the Head Start program. This role ensures all food service operations meet federal, state, and local regulations guidelines, while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. The Cook will assure that MRDC philosophies and priorities are met. Job Responsibilities Plan, prepare, and serve meals and snacks in accordance with approved menus, portion sizes, and CACFP nutritional requirements. Adapt meals for children with food allergies, special diets, or cultural preferences as directed by the Nutrition Coordinator. Ensure food is attractive, appetizing, and served at proper temperatures. Follow all food safety and hygiene protocols, including proper food storage, preparation, and serving techniques. Maintain kitchen, equipment, and storage areas in clean and sanitary condition at all times. Dispose of food waste safely and appropriately. Maintain accurate inventory of food, supplies, and equipment. Prepare orders for food and kitchen supplies in coordination with the Center Director or Nutrition Coordinator. Rotate stock to ensure freshness and minimize waste. Complete required food service records, including menus, production sheets, and temperature logs. Follow all USDA, CACFP, and Head Start Program Performance Standards. Participate in inspections and audits related to food service. Work cooperatively with teachers, aides, and staff to support classroom meal schedules. Assist with nutrition education activities as needed. Assure that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained. Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others. Comes to work promptly every day. Works under stress and meets all deadlines. Other duties: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned. Requirements Experience: High school diploma or GED required; formal culinary training preferred. Minimum of 12 years' experience in institutional or quantity cooking (school, childcare, healthcare setting preferred). Required Skills/Qualifications Ability to work independently and within a team environment Effective written and oral communication experience Relationship building experience Valid driver's license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the state Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening Physical Demands: Position requires significant periods of standing, walking, kneeling, sitting on the floor or crouching May at times require lifting 25lbs 50lbs Benefits Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) + Health Saving Account + Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) + Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D) + Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays) + Short Term & Long Term Disability + Training & Development Hourly Rate of Pay: $20.47 Maryland Rural Development Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at hrdept@mrdc.net