Service Cook (Maternity Leave Cover)

Nourish Growing Minds. Support Young Learners. Make a Difference Every Day.

Do you have a passion for preparing nutritious meals that support children's health, wellbeing and development? Are you an organised, reliable and team-focused cook who enjoys working in a positive and supportive environment?

Maitland Kids Preschool \& Early Learning Centre is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Service Cook to join our dedicated team on a part-time maternity leave contract.

This is more than a cooking role. As our Service Cook, you will play an essential part in supporting children's growth and wellbeing by preparing healthy, balanced meals while creating positive mealtime experiences in a safe and welcoming environment. You will work closely with our educators and leadership team, becoming a valued member of our Centre community.

About Us

Maitland Kids Preschool \& Early Learning Centre is a beautiful, purpose-built Early Childhood Education and Care service located in the heart of Maitland, providing exceptional education and care for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years.

Proudly independently owned and family operated, our leadership team brings over 40 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and Care. We are passionate about creating a warm, welcoming and inspiring environment where children feel safe, valued and empowered to thrive.

Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We believe every role within our Centre contributes to children's learning and wellbeing, and we foster a workplace built on collaboration, respect, professionalism and continuous improvement.

About the Role

As our Service Cook, you will be responsible for preparing fresh, nutritious meals and snacks that meet children's dietary and nutritional requirements while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen management.

Working closely with educators and families, you will help ensure mealtimes are enjoyable, inclusive and support children's healthy eating habits.

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys being part of a team and understands the important role nutrition plays in children's learning and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare nutritious meals and snacks that cater for children's individual dietary requirements.
• Develop seasonal menus in line with the Get Up \& Grow Guidelines, Australian Dietary Guidelines and Munch \& Move Program.
• Maintain exceptional food safety, cleanliness and hygiene standards at all times.
• Manage food ordering, stock rotation and kitchen supplies while working within budget.
• Complete food safety documentation, temperature records and kitchen compliance records.
• Ensure compliance with NSW Health regulations, Centre policies and food safety legislation.
• Maintain a clean, organised and welcoming kitchen environment.
• Work collaboratively with educators and leadership to support Centre events and celebrations.
• Contribute positively to our team culture and support the daily operation of the Centre where required.

About You

You are a caring, organised and reliable professional who enjoys preparing healthy meals and understands the importance of nutrition in supporting young children's growth and development.

You will bring:

• Previous experience as a Cook, preferably within an Early Childhood Education and Care setting.
• Current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and nutritional requirements for young children.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• The ability to work independently while also contributing positively as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills and a friendly, professional approach.
• Current Working With Children Check (or willingness to obtain).
• Full Australian working rights.

Desirable

• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
• Experience working within an Early Childhood Education and Care setting.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

At Maitland Kids Preschool \& Early Learning Centre, the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of every child are our highest priorities. We are committed to providing a child-safe organisation where children feel respected, protected and empowered to thrive.

We promote a culture of respect, inclusion and accountability and expect every team member, regardless of their role, to uphold the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and contribute to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for every child.

Mandatory Requirements

Successful applicants will demonstrate a genuine commitment to child safety and must have:

• Current Working With Children Check (or willingness to obtain where applicable).
• Completion of the National Child Safety Foundation Training through the Geccko platform, or willingness to complete prior to commencement.
• A commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for every child.
• Willingness to participate in all required child safety screening, induction and ongoing training.

All appointments are subject to satisfactory child safety screening and relevant employment checks.

Why Join Maitland Kids?

At Maitland Kids Preschool \& Early Learning Centre, we believe every member of our team plays an important role in creating exceptional outcomes for children and families. We are committed to providing a supportive workplace where your contribution is recognised and valued.

Benefits

• Worker Retention Payment (where eligible)
• Childcare fee discount
• Uniform provided
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Career progression opportunities
• Supportive leadership team that genuinely values your contribution
• Positive, collaborative and inclusive workplace culture
• Beautiful, purpose-built and well-resourced Centre
• Family-owned and independently operated service
• Two-week Centre closure over Christmas
• Flexible and supportive management committed to your professional growth

If you are passionate about preparing nutritious meals, enjoy working in a collaborative team and want to make a positive difference in the lives of young children, we would love to hear from you.

Be part of our dedicated team and help nourish the next generation—apply today!

Please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining your experience and why you would be a great addition to the Maitland Kids Preschool \& Early Learning Centre team.

Pay: $42,113.50 – $44,401.50 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: In person