About us:
Metis Community Services Society of BC (MCSBC) has a mandate from Metis citizens to provide integrated, holistic, family-centered, wrap-around services to all those who need assistance, with special emphasis on Indigenous populations, specifically Metis populations.
About the role:
30 hrs/Week
Awasisak Achakos Aboriginal Head Start is a no-cost, Indigenous-led early learning program serving children ages 3–5 and their families. Guided by Elders and Indigenous ways of knowing, the program supports the spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental well-being of children through culture, language, land-based learning, and community connection.
The Cook / Nutrition Coordinator plays a vital role in supporting children's health and well-being by planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet licensing and nutritional standards. This role supports children's understanding of healthy eating while incorporating Indigenous foods, cultural teachings, and opportunities to learn about food sovereignty whenever possible.
This position reports directly to the Head Start Program Manager and works collaboratively with educators, families, Elders, and community partners
Report directly to Aboriginal HeadStart Manager (AHS Manager)
Responsibilities:
Meal Planning and Preparation
- Prepare and serve daily breakfast, lunch, and snacks for children enrolled in the program.
- Develop nutritious menus that align with Canada's Food Guide, Child Care Licensing Regulations, and Aboriginal Head Start nutrition guidelines.
- Accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, cultural preferences, and special nutritional requirements.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served in a safe, timely, and welcoming manner.
- Maintain accurate records related to menus, food temperatures, allergies, and food safety requirements.
- Participate in menu planning that reflects seasonal foods and Indigenous food traditions when possible.
Kitchen Operations and Food Safety
- Ensure compliance with Interior Health, FoodSafe, and Child Care Licensing requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment.
- Monitor food inventory and order supplies within approved budgets.
- Receive and store food safely according to health regulations.
- Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs promptly.
- Participate in regular kitchen inspections and licensing reviews as required
Nutrition Education and Cultural Learning
- Support children's learning about healthy foods, gardening, harvesting, and food preparation through age-appropriate activities.
- Work collaboratively with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and educators to incorporate traditional foods and cultural teachings into programming.
- Participate in gardening, harvesting, food preservation, and cultural food activities when appropriate.
- Support special events, feasts, celebrations, and cultural gatherings through meal preparation and food coordination.
- Promote positive relationships with food and healthy eating habits.
Team Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with the Head Start team to support children's overall development and well-being.
- Participate in staff meetings, program planning, and professional development opportunities.
- Communicate effectively with families regarding food allergies, dietary needs, and nutrition-related concerns.
- Support a welcoming, family-centered environment that encourages family engagement and participation.
- Provide classroom support and staff break coverage as required to maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios and ensure continuity of programming.
- Support children in the classroom environment during staff breaks, transitions, outings, and other periods as needed.
- Assist educators in maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children.
Other Duties
- Assist with food preparation and coordination for program events, family gatherings, feasts, and ceremonies.
- Participate in initiatives that strengthen Indigenous food sovereignty, nutrition, and cultural programming.
- Participate in land-based activities and community events when appropriate.
- Perform other related duties assigned by the Head Start Program Manager.
Qualifications and Experience:
- FoodSafe Level 1 Certification (required)
- ECEA Certification considered an asset
- Responsible Adult Certification or willingness to obtain.
- Professional Cook Training, Culinary Arts Certificate, or equivalent experience preferred.
- Experience preparing meals for groups of children in a childcare, school, community, or institutional setting.
- Knowledge of nutrition requirements for young children.
- Understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions, and the impacts of colonization on Indigenous families.
- Knowledge of traditional Indigenous foods and food practices is considered an asset.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Valid First Aid Certification is considered an asset.
- Clear Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional standards.
- Commitment to creating a culturally safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for children and families.
Note: MCSBC is exempt and may give preference to hiring Métis applicants under Section 16 of the Canadian Human Rights Act.
Benefits:
- Meaningful work supporting Urban Indigenous and Métis children, families, and community
- Employer-paid extended health and dental benefits.
- Group RRSP program with employer matching contributions.
- Wellness days and generous paid time off.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Supportive team environment committed to Indigenous wellness and healing.
- Paid organizational closure during the winter holiday season.
- Free Parking
- Access to Indigenous Elders and cultural support
