Cook / Nutritionist

Join Bluebird Early Education Traralgon, a beautiful, purpose-built 92-place service located in Victoria’s Gippsland region. We proudly support our vibrant community, offering care and education for children aged 6 weeks to 4-year-old kindergarten, Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm.

At Bluebird Traralgon, we’re passionate about inclusion and building strong, genuine relationships with families so everyone feels welcomed and valued. We create nurturing, engaging environments where children thrive as lifelong learners, incorporating each child’s interests and ideas into their educational journey.

Our dedicated team of highly qualified educators supports and inspires every child, encouraging exploration, curiosity, and growth. Become part of a caring, passionate team committed to helping children grow into confident, capable learners every day.

As the Centre Chef, you will oversee the daily operations of our purpose-built kitchen and be responsible for providing a healthy, fresh, diverse, and wholesome menu catering to children aged 0 to 6 years. You will have the opportunity to work with the team to cook seasonal menu plans and recipes.

This opportunity is permanent part-time, up to 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday, providing a talented chef an excellent work/life balance.

Tasks and responsibilities :

• Plan and prepare daily nutritious meals including breakfast, morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea for children 0 to 6 years of age, including preparation of purees and any dietary requirements
• Prepare meals to meet the needs of children with special dietary requirements and allergies
• Understand and adhere to the centre's nutrition policy and guidelines
• Interact with educators, children, and families to build a sense of community and engagement
• Run cooking programs for the children in the centre as required
• Maintain a safe and hygienic kitchen in line with centre policies
• Order for weekly plans and additional ingredients as required to prepare the menu.

Qualifications to be successful in the role :

• Completed relevant vocational qualification in commercial cookery
• Food safety certificates
• Experience and passion for cooking and presenting a wide variety of nutritious foods suitable for children 0 to 6 years of age
• Previous experience managing a kitchen and working as a chef
• Previous experience in early learning or educational facility desirable
• Good time management skills and confident managing a kitchen
• Reliable, positive, and well-organised person
• Ability to precisely manage allergy and intolerance requirements with food preparation and delivery daily
• High quality of customer service when working with colleagues, families, and children
• Must have or be willing to obtain First Aid, CPR, and Anaphylaxis certificates
• Working with Children Check.

Benefits

• Worker retention grant approved
• Great day time shifts, no evening or weekend work
• 50% staff discount
• Professional development opportunities
• Work anniversary gifts and more.