Job Description

Northside Family Resource Centre is seeking a caring, organised and enthusiastic Childcare Cook to join our Early Years team. This is an opportunity to play an important role in supporting children's health, wellbeing and development through the preparation of nutritious, home-style meals and snacks in a warm, community-based childcare setting.

We are looking for someone who enjoys cooking, takes pride in maintaining high standards, and understands the important role that food plays in creating positive experiences for young children. As part of a supportive and community-focused organisation, you will enjoy family-friendly daytime working hours, a competitive benefits package and opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.

About the Role

The Childcare Cook is responsible for planning, preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children attending our services, while ensuring the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen organisation. This role offers the opportunity to work predictable daytime hours in a child-centred environment where the focus is on supporting children's wellbeing through healthy, balanced meals.

Working collaboratively with the Chef Manager, through the Head of Early Years, and alongside the Early Years team, the successful candidate will help create positive mealtime experiences and ensure that children's dietary, cultural and allergy-related needs are consistently met.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Nutrition

Plan and prepare nutritious meals and snacks for young children in accordance with healthy eating guidelines
Support the development of balanced and varied menus suitable for children aged 0-6 years
Ensure meals meet individual dietary, allergy, cultural and medical requirements
Promote positive mealtime experiences for children

Kitchen Management & Food Safety

Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and food safety
Ensure compliance with HACCP requirements and food safety regulations
Monitor food storage, stock rotation and temperature records
Maintain accurate kitchen records and documentation
Ensure equipment is safe, clean and maintained appropriately
Maintain and display allergen information and ensure compliance with all food safety and allergy management procedures.

Stock Control & Administration

Monitor stock levels and submit orders in a timely manner
Manage food supplies effectively and minimise waste
Support efficient budget-conscious use of resources
Maintain accurate purchasing and kitchen records

Team Working

Work collaboratively with the Chef Manager, Early Years Manager and childcare team
Communicate effectively regarding children's dietary requirements
Participate in staff meetings and training as required
Contribute to a positive and supportive team culture

Person Specification

Essential

Experience preparing and cooking meals in a professional kitchen environment
Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and HACCP requirements
Understanding of healthy nutrition for young children
Experience managing dietary, allergy and medical food requirements safely within a structured setting.
Strong organisational and time-management skills
Ability to work independently and manage a daily routine
Good communication and teamwork skills
A reliable, flexible and positive approach to work

Desirable

Experience working within a childcare, preschool, school, community or healthcare setting
Food Safety/HACCP qualification
Experience planning menus for children
Knowledge of children's nutritional requirements
Experience working within a community-based organisation

Northside Family Resource Centre is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds.

Terms of Employment

Accountability

The Childcare Cook is employed by the Board of Management of Northside Family Resource Centre. The Childcare Cook reports to the Chef Manager through the Head of Early Years. Overall responsibility rests with the Board of Management through the CEO.

Hours of Work

This is a full-time position based on a 35-hour working week, normally worked Monday to Friday in accordance with the operational needs of the service. Flexibility may be required from time to time to meet service needs. Where additional hours are worked and approved in advance, time off in lieu (TOIL) may be granted in accordance with organisational policy. This position is permanent and subject to continued funding. A six-month probationary period will apply.

Salary

The salary for this post will be offered on the Grade 2 salary scale, ranging from €29,200 to €33,700 per annum, based on a 37.5-hour working week. As this is a 35-hour per week position, the salary will be applied on a pro rata basis. Placement on the scale will be determined based on the successful candidate's qualifications, skills and relevant experience.

Benefits & Wellbeing

In addition to salary, Northside Family Resource Centre offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

Employer pension contribution
25 days annual leave per annum (pro rata) plus public holidays
2 paid company privilege days annually
Additional annual leave entitlements awarded in recognition of long service.
Up to 14 days paid sick leave
Access to the Wisdom Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), providing confidential support services for employees and their immediate family members.
Access to CPD, coaching and accredited training opportunities

Confidentiality

The Childcare Cook will be expected to observe confidentiality at all times in relation to children, families, colleagues and the business of Northside Family Resource Centre.

Garda Vetting

In accordance with The National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 to 2016, E-vetting will be a requirement for the successful candidate.

Application Process

To apply, please complete the online application form in full and upload all required supporting documentation. CVs submitted without a completed application form will not be considered.

The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Friday, 30 October 2026.

Interviews are expected to take place in person at Northside Family Resource Centre on the morning of Thursday, 5 November 2026.

Childcare Cook (35 Hours)

Benefits