YMCA Camp Silver Creek - Kitchen Director

JOB TITLE: Kitchen Director

DEPARTMENT: Camp (40) - Camp Silver Creek

REPORTS TO: Assistant Director of Operations

LOCATION: Camp Silver Creek

STATUS: Seasonal

PAY RATE: $788 DOE/week

Our Culture Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Position Summary

Who We Are:

Since 1938, generations of campers have come to experience the joy and beauty of Camp Silver Creek. Located deep inside Oregon's Silver Falls State Park, historic Camp Silver Creek is a magical place for children and adults alike. Towering evergreens and a stream flow through the camp’s four units. In the center of camp, a beautiful field is perfect for field games and the lake welcomes boaters, fishermen, and even the early morning polar bear swimmers. We are actively hiring great role models who are energetic, collaborative, and hard working to join the team for this summer.

The Role:

The Kitchen director is in charge of all food service operations at camp. They, along with the Assistant Kitchen Director, oversee a staff of 2-6 prep cooks and kitchen aides. The kitchen director is in charge of meal planning, ordering food and budgeting, scheduling, and all kitchen maintenance.

Essential Functions

• Supervise kitchen staff assigned to the kitchen, serving as their leader and mentor, providing ongoing feedback and coaching.
• Plan a nutritious balanced camp menu to provide three meals a day, and supervise all food preparation for three meals a day.
• Work with vendors to order food on a twice weekly basis.
• Manage food costs and meet budget requirements, including calculating cost per plate for future Kitchen Directors to reference.
• Develop and implement procedures to minimize food waste and coordinate donations of excess food to area organizations at the end of summer.
• Maintain and track inventory of kitchen equipment and food supplies.
• Collaborate with the Outpost Director to coordinate food needs for wilderness overnights and special programming.
• Ensure compliance with ACA (American Camp Association) standards and all applicable health and safety regulations.
• Communicate daily with the Associate Director of Operations regarding kitchen needs.
• Communicate with families as needed to accommodate special dietary needs for campers.
• Ensure kitchen cleanliness and compliance with all health codes, including but not limited to dishwashing, equipment cleaning, and mopping floors.
• Create and maintain a harmonious, positive working relationship with fellow staff, YMCA Camp Silver Creek campers, participants, and the entire camp community.
• Demonstrate commitment to quality, the core values of the YMCA, and joy in working with youth of all ages.
• Consistently provide friendly, courteous service, exceeding camper and staff expectations daily.
• Ensure the loading dock remains clear daily by properly disposing of cardboard boxes, recycling, garbage, and debris, preventing animal and rodent attractants while maintaining a clutter-free, sanitary, and visually professional workspace.
• Maintain knowledge of association policies and procedures, risk management and safety practices.
• Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize tasks and communicate effectively.

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.

Entry Requirements

• At least 21 years of age
• Proven experience in food service management and commercial kitchens.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with staff, campers, and leadership.
• Experience planning, organizing, and scheduling commercial kitchens.
• Ability to adapt programming based on weather, safety concerns, and camper needs.
• Proven leadership and supervisory experience, particularly in overseeing program staff.
• Creative problem-solving skills to enhance and improve camp programming.
• Strong organizational skills to manage camp schedules, supplies, and logistics efficiently.
• Ability to respond appropriately to safety and emergency situations.
• Completion of all training and onboarding prior to program start date or training due dates. Training is provided as needed after hiring.
• Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to become certified within the first 30 days of employment prior to camp start. (Certification classes available upon employment.)
• Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certification, or ability to obtain certification.
• Must be available during all of the following date:

June 8 - June 14 (Program Staff Retreat)

June 15 - June 21 (Mandatory All-Staff Training)

June 23 - August 23 (Camp Season & Move-Out)

Physical/Mental Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be physically capable of observing and listening for stressful situations at all times.
• Must be physically capable of lifting 40 pounds.
• Must be able to quickly reach a person and/or situation to prevent harm.
• Capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth centered environment.

All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.