New Jersey State Elks Association
What will you be doing? - About the Position
The Head Chef & Kitchen Manager’s role is an essential part of the camp’s daily operation. Their purpose is to ensure meals are available during camp programs, all special diets are catered for, the kitchen and dining hall remain clean and sanitized at all times and the food service program runs smoothly. They will support the Elks during their visits, ensuring that the Camp meets the local and state health codes at all times.
What you need to be GREAT at this role
Organizational Skills and Efficiency
You’re a master at keeping things running smoothly in a fast-paced kitchen. Preparing three meals a day, plus snacks, for over 130 people requires exceptional time management and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently.
Culinary Experience
You’re confident in your cooking abilities and understand how to prepare nutritious, delicious meals on a large scale. Whether you’ve worked in restaurants, catering, or have had other cooking experiences, you’re ready to step up to the challenge of feeding a hungry camp.
Meal Planning and Adaptability
You have the skills to plan and prepare balanced meals while being flexible with menu changes or dietary requirements. You’re able to adapt to allergies, special dietary needs, and food preferences, ensuring that everyone is well-fed and satisfied.
Team Leadership
As the head chef/kitchen manager, you’ll be leading a small team in the kitchen. You know how to delegate tasks effectively, provide clear direction, and create a supportive, positive work environment to keep the kitchen running smoothly.
Safety and Cleanliness Focused
Maintaining a clean and safe kitchen is second nature to you. You know food safety regulations inside and out and can ensure that every meal is prepared and served in a hygienic environment. You’re also proactive about organizing the kitchen for maximum efficiency and safety.
Problem Solving Under Pressure
Cooking for a camp means unexpected issues will arise—whether it’s running low on ingredients or needing to adjust meals last minute. You thrive in these situations, quickly finding solutions to keep the kitchen on track and campers fed.
Budgeting and Resourcefulness
You know how to stretch a budget while still delivering high-quality meals. You can plan meals that are cost-effective without sacrificing taste or nutrition, and you’re resourceful with ingredients, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.
Positive and Flexible Attitude
You maintain a positive attitude, even during busy meal prep times. Camp kitchens can be demanding, but you’re enthusiastic about serving up great meals and are flexible enough to meet the dynamic needs of camp life.
Passion for Working with a Purpose
You’re not just cooking—you’re contributing to the well-being of campers and staff. You care deeply about creating meals that are not only nourishing but enjoyable, making dining a positive experience for everyone at camp.
Entry Requirements
1.Must be 18 years of age or older.
2. Must provide a physical / health form that has been signed by a medical professional. Annual health screening will be required for any staff who has a gap in their work schedule greater than 6 months between worked days.
3. Complete camp application including the ability to obtain three acceptable professional / character references from non-family members or friends. These should consist of previous employment, volunteer organizations, professors/teachers, sports coaches, or community members who know you well enough to provide an acceptable reference.
4. Must provide the camp with a voluntary disclosure form, and a USA & Home Country police/background check which includes a sex offender record verification. These checks must be completed annually for all staff members regardless if they have been employed year-round or seasonally. These checks must be clear without a history of any offenses.
5. Ability to attend and successfully complete/pass a New Hire Training before working directly with any campers.
Additional Role Information
Take the next step today! Click on the Apply Now button and submit your application information. During your interview we will be able to discuss more details and information about the role, camp and job requirements. Looking forward to speaking with you soon!