Job Details

Cook - KVC Missouri Residential

Location: Springfield, MO
Schedule: This is a full-time position with a schedule of either 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with no weekend requirements*

Cook with Heart - Make a Difference in Children's Lives

If you've ever worked in a school kitchen, daycare, or caregiving role, you know how much comfort a warm meal can bring. At KVC Missouri's Springfield Residential Campus, our cooks are more than food preparers - they are part of the healing process for children and teens in our care.

*This is a vital position - truly the heart of the house. You'll create nourishing meals in a calm, family-style environment where every dish helps children feel safe, valued, and cared for.

*We're looking for someone who brings creativity, compassion, and reliability - someone who can follow nutritional guidelines but also add their personal touch with baking, menu ideas, and thoughtful presentation.

Why You'll Love This Role

• Purpose with heart: Every meal you prepare contributes to the emotional healing and stability of our kids.
• A creative kitchen: Enjoy the freedom to be inventive with menus, bake special treats, and bring warmth to mealtimes while following our standards.
• Opportunities to grow: We'll support your professional development, whether you want to build culinary skills, take on leadership, or explore new roles within KVC.
• Caring community: Join a team that values compassion, teamwork, and making a difference every day.

What You'll Do

• Prepare nutritious meals following recipes, DESE nutrition standards, and ServSafe guidelines
• Plan menus, prep meals, and bake with creativity
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and follow food safety protocols
• Manage inventory and assist with special events
• Interact with children and staff, helping make mealtimes a comforting and positive part of each day

What We're Looking For

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain)
• 1+ year of kitchen or food service experience (school or residential preferred)
• Experience working with children or youth (strongly preferred)
• Dependable, caring, and creative personality who takes pride in their work

Must be 21 years old to apply. Pre-employment drug screen, physical and background check required.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off

Enjoy a generous amount of leave to support your work-life balance.

• Paid Parental Leave

Receive financial support during parental leave to help you spend quality time with your new family member.

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

Comprehensive insurance coverage to keep you and your family healthy and protected.

• 403(b) with Company Match

Retirement savings plan with company contributions to help you plan for your future.

• Tuition Reimbursement

Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.

• Professional Licensure and Certification Reimbursement

Support for obtaining and renewing professional licenses and certifications.

• Employee Assistance Program

Confidential support for personal and professional challenges, including counseling and resources.

• Wellness Benefits

Access to health screenings and mental health support to promote overall well-being.

About KVC

KVC Missouri is part of KVC Health Systems, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. Our culture of compassion and teamwork has earned KVC an 83 Work Wellbeing score on Indeed - placing us among the top 1% of employers nationwide. If you love to cook, enjoy caring for others, and want your work to truly matter, this role may be the perfect fit.

Join us at KVC and become part of the heart of the house - where meals heal, comfort, and inspire.