Description

The Assistant Head Cook (AHC) position is essential to the kitchen’s success at Pine Island Camp, where the staff prepares, serves, and cleans up after three meals daily for campers and staff. Though the focus of the camp lies in its activities and overnight trips, meals are highly anticipated by all. The kitchen staff includes the Head Cook, the Assistant Head Cook, and four Kitchen Crew Members (KCMs). While the Head Cook oversees all final decisions, the AHC works closely under their guidance, assisting with menu planning, food ordering, and cooking. KCMs focus on meal preparation, food service, and maintaining the cleanliness of the kitchen and dining areas. The AHC is also mentored by the Head Cook, often preparing to lead the kitchen in future seasons. When cooking, collaboration is key, with the Head Cook typically handling meats and sauces, while the AHC focuses on vegetables and sides. The AHC essentially assists with whatever tasks the Head Cook requires to make sure meals are timely and efficient. The AHC lives at camp for the entire summer, working around 12 hours a day (around 4 hours per meal), with scheduled nights and days off. They are provided with living accommodations and have no duties outside the kitchen during their breaks.

• Assist the Head Cook with weekly menu planning and food ordering
• Report to each meal at a time designated by the Head Cook (typically 2-2.5 hours prior to mealtime)
• Assist the Head Cook with preparing and cooking meals
• Take the lead on cooking breakfast every other morning (switching on and off with the Head Cook)
• Supervise the KCMs in their roles and ensure their success (food delivery, refills, cleaning, etc.)
• Monitor camper food allergies and preferences and make sure they are accounted for in the meal plan
• Carry out waste system preventative maintenance
• Assist the Head Cook with making sure that the King’s Game meals and Farewell Feed are efficient and successful
• Put away incoming weekly food orders

Requirements

• Experience with culinary work in a commercial kitchen or restaurant setting
• Staying cool under pressure and managing challenges while 60-160 people wait for your food to be served
• Experience co-managing a staff of at least 3 in a kitchen or restaurant setting
• Organizational skills and strong communication
• The ability to live and work at camp for 8 weeks (6 weeks for campers, plus an extra 2 for staff)
• Comfortable living in a rustic setting