About this role
Position Summary The Tripoli Community School District is seeking a dependable, organized, and service oriented Middle School/High School Cook to support the district's school nutrition program. The successful candidate will prepare and serve nutritious, appealing meals in accordance with USDA regulations, Iowa Department of Education guidelines, and district policies. This position is responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality, sanitation, and safety while providing excellent customer service to students and staff in a positive and efficient kitchen environment. The Middle School/High School Cook will work collaboratively with the Food Service Director, kitchen staff, administrators, and other district personnel to ensure the daily operation of the school meal program while promoting healthy eating habits and supporting student success. Qualifications Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Certification:
• ServSafe Food Handler or Food Protection Manager Certification preferred or the ability to obtain certification as required.
• Completion of required USDA Professional Standards training for school nutrition employees.
Experience
• Previous institutional, school, restaurant, healthcare, or commercial food service experience preferred but not required.
• Experience preparing meals for large groups is desirable.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
• Knowledge of food preparation, sanitation, and safe food handling practices.
• Ability to prepare meals using standardized recipes and production schedules.
• Knowledge of USDA school nutrition regulations and meal pattern requirements is preferred.
• Ability to operate commercial kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming food service environment.
Technology Requirements
• Basic computer skills.
• Ability to utilize computerized point-of-sale systems, meal counting software, and other district technology as assigned.
• Ability to complete required online training and maintain required records electronically.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Food Preparation
• Prepare and cook breakfast and lunch items according to district menus, standardized recipes, and production schedules.
• Assist in planning and organizing daily food production to ensure timely meal service.
• Ensure meals meet USDA nutritional requirements and district quality standards.
• Prepare appropriate food quantities while minimizing waste.
• Properly receive, store, and label food products according to food safety guidelines.
Food Service Operations
• Set up serving lines and ensure food is presented attractively and maintained at proper serving temperatures.
• Provide courteous, efficient, and respectful service to students, staff, and visitors.
• Monitor food quality throughout meal service.
• Operate the point-of-sale system and accurately record reimbursable meals as assigned.
• Replenish food items and supplies throughout meal service.
Sanitation and Safety
• Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen equipment, food preparation areas, serving lines, storage areas, and dining spaces.
• Wash dishes, trays, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment.
• Monitor and document food temperatures, cleaning schedules, and sanitation records.
• Report equipment malfunctions, maintenance needs, or safety concerns promptly.
• Follow district safety procedures and properly use cleaning chemicals and equipment.
Inventory and Organization
• Assist with receiving, inspecting, rotating, and storing food and supplies.
• Maintain inventory using First In, First Out (FIFO) procedures.
• Assist the Food Service Director in monitoring inventory levels and reducing waste.
• Notify the Food Service Director when supplies or equipment need replenishment or replacement.
Collaboration
• Work cooperatively with food service staff, administrators, teachers, custodians, and other district personnel.
• Support district wellness initiatives and promote healthy eating habits among students.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Responsibilities
• Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct consistent with district policies and expectations.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student and personnel information.
• Participate in required food safety training and continuing education.
• Maintain regular attendance, punctuality, and dependable work habits.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Food Service Director or administration.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, twist, and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, including hot kitchens and walk-in coolers or freezers.
Working Conditions
• School kitchen, cafeteria, food storage, and serving environments.
• Exposure to heat, steam, refrigeration, cleaning chemicals, and commercial kitchen equipment.
• Frequent interaction with students, staff, and visitors.
• Moderate to high noise levels typical of school food service operations.
Terms of Employment Work schedule, contract length, wages, and benefits are established by the Tripoli Community School District Board of Education and applicable district policies and negotiated agreements. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks and any required food service certifications or training. Equal Employment Opportunity The Tripoli Community School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or Iowa law. The District is committed to providing an inclusive educational and work environment for all students and employees.
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Classification: Classified Support Staff Reports To: Food Service Director and Building Principal