Cook/Chef – Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre

Location: Ermington, NSW

Employment Type: Part time- You must be available to work between 8:00am-2:00pm.

Pay: $30-$35 per hour in a worker retention approved service!

Join the Smart Cookies Family!

At Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre, we believe that healthy, nutritious food plays an important role in children’s growth, development and wellbeing.

We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Cook/Chef to join our team and prepare fresh, nutritious and delicious meals for the children in our care.

This is more than just a kitchen role. Our Cook/Chef is an important part of our centre community, working alongside our educators to create positive mealtimes and ensure every child is provided with healthy and nutritious food throughout the day.

About the Role

As our Cook/Chef, you will be responsible for:

- Preparing fresh, nutritious and appealing morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea for children each day.
- Following our 4-week rotating menu, ensuring meals are varied, balanced and age appropriate.
- Preparing meals that align with the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating and support healthy eating practices.
- Catering for children's allergies, medical dietary requirements, cultural preferences and individual needs.
- Maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene, cleanliness and safe food handling at all times.
- Correctly storing, labelling and managing food supplies to maintain freshness and minimise waste.
- Ordering groceries and kitchen supplies and checking deliveries.




- Monitoring stock levels and ensuring the kitchen is appropriately stocked.
- Working with the Centre Director and team to review and improve menus where appropriate.
- Creating a welcoming and positive mealtime experience for children.
- Working collaboratively with educators to support children's developing independence and positive attitudes towards food.
- Maintaining a clean, organised and well-presented kitchen in accordance with centre policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.

About You

We are looking for someone who is passionate about cooking and genuinely enjoys preparing food for young children.

You will ideally have:

- A relevant qualification in Commercial Cookery, Hospitality, Nutrition or a related field.
- Previous experience working as a Cook/Chef in an early childhood education and care setting is highly desirable.
- Knowledge and understanding of nutrition and healthy eating for young children.
- Experience catering for allergies, intolerances and special dietary requirements.
- Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and safe food handling practices.
- Strong organisation and time-management skills.
- The ability to manage food ordering, stock levels and kitchen supplies.




- A positive, reliable and team-oriented attitude.
- A genuine interest in children's health, wellbeing and development.
- A current Working with Children Check.
- A current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate.
- A current First Aid Certificate or willingness to obtain one.

Why Join Smart Cookies?

At Smart Cookies, we pride ourselves on creating a warm, supportive and family-like environment for our children, families and educators.

When you join our team, you will be part of an organisation that values its people and is committed to providing high-quality care and education.

We offer:

- Above Award wages
- A supportive and collaborative team environment
- Dedicated and approachable management
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth
- Generous childcare discounts for staff
- Flexible working arrangements where possible
- A positive and welcoming workplace culture
- The opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of young children every day

Be Part of the Smart Cookies Family

If you are passionate about healthy cooking, children's nutrition and creating delicious meals that children love, we'd love to hear from you!

Join Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre and become part of a team that is committed to providing children with the best possible start in life.

Apply now by submitting your resume and cover letter.

Pay: $30.00 – $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: 25.0 – 30.0 per week

Work Location: In person

📌 Childcare Cook / Chef (Ermington)
🏢 Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre
📍 Ermington