We are searching for an experienced Cook on behalf of Upper Island Women of Native Ancestry (UIWONA)
Lead with Heart. Inspire Change. Uplift Community.
Since 1991, Upper Island Women of Native Ancestry (UIWONA) has been a vital force for Indigenous women, children, and families in the Comox Valley and Northern Vancouver Island. We offer culturally rooted programs that promote health, joy, and resilience—guided by traditional knowledge and innovative community building.
Do you have a passion for cooking, culture, and community? Join our team at UIWONA as a Cook for our Head Start program! This is more than just a kitchen job — it's an opportunity to support the health and learning of young children through nutrition and traditional foods.
About the Role
As the Cook, you’ll play a key role in nourishing our children (ages 3–5), staff, family members, and Elders. You’ll plan and prepare meals that are nutritious, culturally relevant, and seasonally inspired — helping children build a healthy relationship with food while supporting their growth and development. You'll work independently but in close collaboration with program staff and leadership.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare and cook breakfast and lunch for children, staff, and attending family or Elders
- Encourage staff to enjoy meals with children to support relationship-building and learning
- Wash dishes and maintain a clean, safe, up-to-code kitchen
- Plan menus that incorporate traditional foods, seasonal ingredients, and monthly learning themes
- Collaborate with staff to support special events like birthdays, field trips, or family breakfasts
- Manage inventory and leftover food efficiently
- Engage with children in the semi-open kitchen and explain the foods being served
- Create a monthly recipe featuring seasonal traditional foods for the website and newsletter
- Coordinate purchases and meal planning with the Programs Administrator
Qualifications & Requirements
- Culinary program certificate or 2+ years of commercial cooking experience
- Food Safe Level One required (advanced levels encouraged)
- Experience preparing meals in an early childhood or community setting is an asset
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform physical tasks (standing, bending, handling materials)
- Able to prepare and lead occasional cooking activities with children
- Ability to plan weekly menus for the 4C’s program and collaborate with the 4C’s coordinator
Core Competencies
- Time Management – Uses time effectively and focuses on key priorities
- Resourcefulness – Uses supplies efficiently and models sustainability practices
- Environmental Awareness – Practices composting, recycling, and proper disposal
- Quality – Produces high-quality meals with minimal waste
- Communication – Strong interpersonal skills for working with staff, children, and families
- Positivity – Brings a kind and inclusive approach to children with diverse needs
- Composure – Stays calm under pressure and adapts to unexpected changes with ease
Why Join Us?
At UIWONA, we believe food is at the heart of learning and community. As our Cook, you’ll be part of a passionate team supporting healthy childhood development through care, culture, and connection.
Apply Today!
Submit your resume and cover letter to: [email protected] by August 15, 2025
We value employment equity and prioritize applications from Indigenous applicants.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
Experience:
- cooking: 2 years (required)
Location:
- Courtenay, BC (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Expected start date: 2025-08-25
