Overview
Join The Wilds as a Seasonal Chef/Cook and bring your culinary skills to a one‑of‑a‑kind conservation setting. You'll craft quality meals for guests, events, and camp programs, uphold top-tier food safety standards, and help create memorable experiences-all while working alongside a supportive team that values service, safety, and sustainability.
Responsibilities
Provide high-quality food service for guests, special events, and camp programs in a fast-paced environment.
Culinary Production & Service
- Serve as the primary Chef/Cook for either the breakfast or dinner shift.
- Prepare and cook meals for catering, special events, and camp programs.
- Perform opening and closing duties as required per shift.
- Check that front-line closer
Food Safety, Sanitation & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with ServSafe standards and maintain proper food safety and sanitation practices.
- Follow all OSHA, FDA, and ServSafe food handling policies and procedures.
- Adhere to emergency and safety procedures for food handling and kitchen operations.
- Ensure all food temperatures (hot holding, cooling, reheating) meet regulatory standards and maintain logs as required.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized kitchen and prep area throughout each shift.
- Label, date, and rotate all food products according to FIFO (First In, First Out) standards.
- Ensure safe operation of kitchen equipment, reporting malfunctions immediately.
- Comply with The Wilds'' emergency procedures, including severe weather, evacuation, and animal-related safety protocols.
Inventory, Equipment & Event Support
- Assist the Food & Beverage Manager, Coordinator, and Lead to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Assist in training seasonal staff and maintaining adherence to company policies.
- Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages, waste, or equipment issues to leadership.
- Assist with setup and breakdown of buffets, serving lines, and event-specific food stations.
- Support sustainability efforts by minimizing food waste and following recycling/compost guidelines.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Formal education in food preparation or extensive experience in a similar role.
- 3+ years' experience in a food service environment.
- Supervisory experience preferred.
- ServSafe certified as Person in Charge is preferred.
Operational & Technical Skills
- Strong organizational skills with computer proficiency preferred.
- Ability to make independent decisions and problem-solve efficiently.
- Strong time-management skills for coordinating multiple dishes and deadlines.
- Ability to follow recipes, portion standards, and presentation guidelines consistently.
- Commitment to maintaining high-quality food presentation and taste standards.
Guest Service & Communication
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Positive attitude with a commitment to excellent service and upholding guest service standards.
Physical & Schedule Requirements
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays.
- Ability to stand on your feet for extended periods and lift up to 35-50 lbs as needed.
- Ability to work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment and adapt to changing event needs.
Compliance & Employment Requirements
- Possession of a valid state-issued driver's license and a good driving record.
- Successfully complete a drug screening, criminal history background check, and BMV check.