Indigenous food preparer / cook

About Us
The Healing of the Seven Generations is honoured to introduce Ga'nigǫhi:yo Indigenous Child Care and Family Centre, which is rooted in the principles of community, cultural respect, and a holistic approach to education and well-being. We are committed to creating a warm, inclusive environment that celebrates and honours Indigenous culture, language, and traditions. Our center is a safe and nurturing space where children can explore, learn, and grow in connection with their community, the land, and the teachings of Indigenous culture. We believe in fostering strong, meaningful relationships with children, families, and the community as we inspire lifelong learners. Our food program is central to our vision, emphasizing traditional and local foods that nourish the body and spirit.

Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Indigenous Food Preparer / Cook to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious and culturally relevant meals for children aged 0-12 years. This includes creating and managing menus that meet the requirements of the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (CCEYA) and align with the First Nations, Inuit and Metis Canadian Food Guide. This role emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and the use of locally sourced and traditional ingredients where possible.
We value creativity and innovation in this role, encouraging our Indigenous Food Preparer / Cook to bring forward new ideas and suggest engaging ways to enhance our food program. This position offers flexibility to experiment with culturally rich and nutritious recipes, incorporate traditional practices, and be an active, supportive member of our close-knit team. As part of our family, you’ll contribute to the larger community by nurturing meaningful connections with the children, their families, and the broader community we serve.

Key Responsibilities
Meal Preparation & Cooking: Prepare and serve morning snacks, lunch, and afternoon snacks for up to 65 children aged 0-5 years, plus afternoon snacks for an after-school program with 20 children. Ensure meals are balanced, nutritious, and culturally appropriate, considering dietary restrictions and allergies.
Menu Planning: Develop rotating menus that comply with CCEYA nutritional guidelines, the First Nations, Inuit and Metis Canadian Food Guide, and the Canadian Food Guide. Work collaboratively with
families to ensure the menu reflects the cultural backgrounds and preferences of the children and families.
Sourcing & Ordering: Plan and prepare all food and kitchen supply orders prioritizing the use of locally grown and harvested foods. Develop relationships with local farmers, vendors, and Indigenous food suppliers to source fresh, high-quality ingredients where applicable.
Gardening & Harvesting: Participate in gardening activities to grow and harvest fresh produce for meal preparation. Engage with children and staff to promote awareness and appreciation of food cultivation and sustainability.
Community Engagement: Collaborate with families and community members to incorporate traditional food practices into the menu. Host or support food-related educational activities that promote cultural learning and healthy eating habits.
Food Safety & Compliance: Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety in the kitchen, following all public health and licensing requirements. Keep accurate records of food inventory, purchases, and compliance documentation.
Sustainability: Implement waste reduction practices, including composting and efficient use of resources in meal preparation.
Other duties as required

Qualifications

Experience & Skills:
· Previous experience in a similar role, preferably in a child care or community setting.
· Knowledge of Indigenous food traditions and practices, including an understanding of seasonal and local foods.
· Strong culinary skills, with an ability to prepare meals in large quantities. Ability to create diverse, inclusive, and balanced menus that consider allergies and dietary restrictions.
· Familiarity with the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 as it relates to nutrition or willingness to learn, Indigenous Food Guide, and Canadian Food Guide.

Education:
· Certification in Safe Food Handling (required).
· Culinary training or equivalent experience (preferred).
Personal Attributes:
· A passion for Indigenous culture and food sovereignty.
· Ability to work collaboratively with families, children, and staff. Strong organizational and time management skills.
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Working Conditions
· Full-time position, 8 hours per day, 1 hour lunch. Monday to Friday.
· Occasional participation in community events or family engagement activities.
· Monthly staff meetings, opportunities for paid professional development and team cultural enrichment learning opportunities
· Involvement in gardening and outdoor harvesting activities.
· Creative freedom to introduce new recipes, cooking methods and ways to enrich our food program and delight in the children and families

Ga'nigǫhi:yo Indigenous Child Care and Family Centre values diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices and welcomes all applicants from all backgrounds. However, as an Indigenous-led organization committed to serving our community, preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants. Please submit your cover letter and resume to [email protected] Applicants are encouraged to self identify as Indigenous if they wish to be considered under this preference.

Full Time Position 
Wage: $23.75 - $27.75