Are you a passionate and creative cook that enjoys working with children?

Want to be part of an authentic team who value kindness, warmth and fun?

Are you seeking a part-time role with stable weekly hours that gives you a bit of time back in your afternoons to do all the other life things?

Yes? Well, then you might just have spied your dream job.

Who on earth are we?

Y Whittlesea is a not-for-profit that happens to be part of the oldest youth organisation in the world (YMCA) and oldest social enterprise where all profits go back into our communities. Our Early Learning spaces are vibrant environments where little imaginations thrive; fostering laughter, creativity, and friendship. Join us in building a close-knit community that inspires young minds through play and learning.

What's the opportunity?

We're on the lookout for an enthusiastic Cook to join our team at Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre, where you will produce delicious and nutritious meals for our young learners. In this role, you'll get to combine your passion for food and creative culinary flare to design your own personalised menu.

This is an ongoing part-time opportunity, working Monday - Friday 8:30am to 3:00pm.

Some of the main duties of this role include:

• Planning and preparing nutritious meals in line with the Healthy Together Victoria program.
• (under direction) working with individual children with specific dietary and allergic needs.
• Being flexible in the menu provision to respond to changing needs of the children.
• Monitor and consult with the Centre Manager on food stock requirements.
• Work cooperatively with Educator staff to include children's cooking experiences in the early learning program.
• Carry out all cleaning duties as required for the provision of safe food service.

For more information, check out the position description (paste this link into your browser): https://ymac.worldmanager.com/go/WGyEM1. And if you have any questions, please contact our centre director Mikhaila Lawson at [email protected] or call 03 9740 0394. You can also email [email protected].

Why Join Us?

• Enjoy staff childcare discounts of 50% if you need to bring your child to care.
• Up to 3 bonus annual leave days over Christmas.
• Be part of a friendly, supportive team culture within an expanding team.
• Free 24/7 gym membership (Leisure City, Epping).
• Professional development opportunities.

What do we hope you'll bring?

• A genuine passion for positively influencing children's nutrition.
• Exceptional understanding of food hygiene practices and food preparation.
• A warm, friendly and compassionate persona.
• Well organised with strong time management skills
• Qualifications relating to Hospitality, cooking and Food Safety (desirable).
• Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (essential).
• Current First Aid & CPR certification.
• Current Employee Working with Children Check and National Police Check (from last 6 months).
• Qualification in Children Services or equivalent (desirable but not required) *Provides opportunity to work additional hours as an Educator.

Ok, I'm in. How do I apply and stand out?

If you're excited to explore this opportunity, take the time to stand out. Submit your resume, answer a few questions on our application form, and if possible, send us a cover letter highlighting your greatness. Click the "Apply Now" button to submit your application.

Applications close date: 24/04/2025

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as screening and interviews may commence prior to the closing date.

Some important stuff

At the Y, we are committed to empowering all Children and Young People to feel safe and be safe, at the Y, in their families and in their communities. As such, we ensure that all of our candidates are appropriately screened (including police checks) to make sure that the right people are in the right roles.

To learn more about our screening processes, click here to view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy (copy link into your browser):

https://ymca.org.au/about-us/safeguarding-children-young-people/safeguardingresources/

The Y is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people.