Childcare Kitchen Coordinator

Public Safety Childcare Center Opening Fall 2026

Multiple positions available!

Boone County is proud to launch a brand-new, first-of-its-kind Childcare Center dedicated to serving our public safety families. This innovative center will provide high-quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment that supports the unique schedules and needs of emergency personnel families.

Many public safety families struggle to find childcare that accommodates their unusual and often unpredictable schedules. To better support our employees and their families, our center will initially offer flexible, scheduled childcare seven days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. This initial program structure creates a strong foundation, with the potential to expand hours and services in the future.

We are seeking a Kitchen Coordinator who will work collaboratively with all staff to create a high-quality childcare program that ensures operational excellence, maintains regulatory compliance, supports children's growth, promotes well-being, and strengthens partnerships with families.

This is a unique opportunity to help build and shape a childcare center from the ground up while supporting the families who serve our community every day.

Key Responsibilities

The Kitchen Coordinator ensures that nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks are prepared and served in accordance with health, safety, and dietary guidelines. This role includes menu planning, grocery shopping, inventory management, food preparation, compliance with state and local health regulations, and coordination with staff to meet children's dietary needs. This position also provides support in the classroom to cover breaks or fill-in as needed.

Position Details

• Status: Full-time, non-exempt, benefited
• Schedule: 6:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m., Monday Friday; possibly evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Starting Hourly Salary: Starting from $21.52 per hour, commensurate with experience. Potential for shift differential.

What You Bring

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 18 years old, in accordance with applicable state or licensing regulations.
• A valid Food Handlers certification (or obtain before employment begins) and must be willing to obtain Food Manager certification within 6 months of employment.
• At least six months of experience in food service.
• Candidates must hold current CPR and First Aid certification or be willing to obtain it within a designated time frame.
• Must pass a background check and medical examination as required by applicable licensing regulations, federal, state, and Boone County policies
• Must maintain employment eligibility by meeting all state licensing, certification, background check, and training requirements.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a groundbreaking initiative supporting public safety families.
• Help build quality care practices, consistent routines, and a culture of excellence.
• Meaningful, mission-driven work serving those who serve our community.

Benefits That Truly Stand Out

Boone County Government offers one of the most competitive public-sector benefit packages in the region:

• Health, dental & vision insurance starting day one (Including medical/dental plans with no employee premium options!)
• Pension plan
• Two matching deferred compensation plans
• 14 paid holidays
• Childcare discount
• Generous vacation and sick leave
• No-cost life and disability insurance options
• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualifying employer

This is stability, security, and service, all in one career move.

Why Columbia, Missouri?

Living in Columbia means enjoying the energy of a thriving college town and the cultural heart of Mid-Missouri. Home to beloved events like the True/False Film Fest, Columbia offers:

• A vibrant arts, music, and restaurant scene
• 278+ miles of scenic local trails
• Outdoor adventures at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
• Easy access to Jefferson City, St. Louis, Kansas City, and the Lake of the Ozarks

It's a place where career opportunity meets exceptional quality of life.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're looking for a career where your childcare expertise drives real impact and where your work directly supports the community, Boone County Government is ready for you.

Join the team. Serve with purpose. Grow with us.

Apply now at: