Company: LeafSpring School at Ballantyne Location: Charlotte, NC 28277 Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Competitive Pay | Based on Experience Industry: Early Childhood Education | Food Service | Child Nutrition
Join Our Caring Team at LeafSpring Schools!
At LeafSpring Schools, we go beyond traditional child care. We create nurturing environments where children grow, learn, and thrive — and that starts with healthy, delicious meals prepared with care.
We’re currently seeking a Preschool Chef to lead our school kitchen and support the health and wellness of our students through nutritious, balanced, and child-friendly meals each day.
If you love cooking from scratch, enjoy working in a positive school environment, and want to make a daily difference in children’s lives, we’d love to meet you!
Why Work at LeafSpring Schools?
Paid time off and holidays, including your birthday!
Work-life balance is a priority: no evening or weekend shifts.
Heavily discounted tuition and free access to the Get Well Place for your own child when ill
Paid training and continuing education opportunities
Tuition reimbursement for professional development
Meals provided daily
Positive, team-driven culture focused on collaboration and learning
Position Overview
The Preschool Chef is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks that support children’s growth and development. This role oversees daily kitchen operations, ensures food safety and sanitation compliance, and creates a welcoming, engaging food experience for students and staff.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare and serve healthy lunch, and snacks daily
Follow CACFP guidelines and meet state and local health regulations
Plan balanced, child-friendly menus that meet nutritional standards
Manage food ordering, inventory, and kitchen budget
Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment
Follow allergy protocols and accommodate special dietary needs
Ensure proper food storage, preparation, and portion control
Model healthy eating habits and positive mealtime experiences for children
Collaborate with teachers and leadership to support special events and celebrations
Participate in inspections, licensing visits, and quality assurance processes
Qualifications
Experience cooking in a school, childcare, or commercial kitchen preferred
Associates or Bachelors Degree
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and nutrition standards
Ability to plan menus and prepare meals for large groups
ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain)
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
Dependable, positive, and team-oriented
A genuine passion for working around young children
Preferred Backgrounds
School or daycare cook
Childcare food service or institutional kitchen experience
Food service certification
Apply Today!
If you’re a caring and reliable chef looking to make a meaningful impact in children’s lives through healthy meals and positive food experiences, this is your opportunity to join a supportive, innovative team dedicated to whole-child wellness.
Apply now to become the next Preschool Chef at LeafSpring Schools!
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchise. All inquiries about employment at this franchise should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to LeafSpring School Corporate.