Lead Cook

What You Will Do

As an integral part of the Kitchen team, the Head Cook will work directly with the Executive Chef in meal planning, preparation, and management of kitchen staff.  During the operation of Camp Treetops, the Head Cook will be the lead in either the Junior or Senior Kitchen for the duration of Camp.  During the school year, the Head Cook will share responsibility with the co-Head Cook to oversee all kitchen shifts.

How You Will Spend Your TimeLead Kitchen Staff (20% of time)

• Direct supervisor for Line Cooks and Kitchen Assistants on a daily basis.
• Must know and comply with appropriate ACA and NYS health department regulations.
• Assist with the season opening and closing of the Senior Camp kitchen.
• Lead and direct daily kitchen tasks, including: food storage, meal cleanup, kitchen cleanup, and other routine kitchen chores.

Meal Preparation (60% of time)

• Able to prepare and cook meals for up to 150 people on a daily basis, and larger groups (up to 400) for special events.
• Able to prepare, cook, and serve meals independently.
• Ability to be flexible to accommodate changing food allergies, menu changes, special requests, etc.
• Lead internal baking needs of the kitchen two days per week
• Position may require extended work days and 6 consecutive days in order to accommodate special events during the year, such as Visitor’s Weekend, Friends Weekend, Board Events, Graduation, and Thanksgiving Dinner.

Support Executive Chef  (20% of time)

• Menu planning
• Organization of food storage areas
• Maintaining the current food allergy list
• Development of a food order list
• Planning of special events
• Preparing food packages for Home Night, House Snacks, and Trips
• Development of an internship program with culinary schools/programs
• Recruitment and training of new kitchen staff

The Skills You Bring to Our Community

• Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts preferred
• One to three years of prior work experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• Previous work in nonprofits and past experience working with children a plus
• Maintain Serve Safe certification (training will be provided as needed by NCT)

The Values You Bring to Our Community 

• Passion for inspiring our community through farm-to-table food
• Deep appreciation for community and working with others
• Curiosity and a desire to continuously learn
• Enthusiasm for working with children and the outdoors (Adirondacks)
• Warmth, grace, kindness, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone
• Independence and ability to be a self-starter