What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cook (Special Diets) position at Camp Emerson?
Cook (Special Diets) – Summer 2027
This is a seasonal, residential summer camp position located in the beautiful Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. The position runs from June 1 through August 22, 2027.
Position Overview
Camp Emerson is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Cook (Special Diets) to help provide safe, nutritious, and delicious meals for campers and staff with dietary restrictions and food allergies. Working closely with the Head Chef and Camp Director, this individual will play an essential role in ensuring that every camper feels safe, included, and cared for at mealtime.
The ideal candidate has professional cooking experience, a strong understanding of food allergies and dietary accommodations, and a genuine passion for creating a positive dining experience for children and young adults.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare daily meals for campers and staff with food allergies and other dietary restrictions.
- Follow individualized meal plans and dietary requirements to ensure meals are safe, appropriate, and nutritionally balanced.
- Adhere to all food allergy protocols, cross-contamination prevention procedures, and kitchen safety standards.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen while upholding high standards of food quality.
- Ensure all meals are prepared and served on time.
- Meet with campers at the beginning of each session to review their dietary needs and explain meal service procedures.
- Coordinate with the Head Chef on menu planning, inventory, and ordering to ensure appropriate ingredients and products are available.
- Supervise and support the Dietetic Intern.
- Communicate promptly with the Head Chef and Camp Director regarding dietary concerns, ingredient availability, and food safety.
- Follow Camp Emerson's kitchen policies, including its strict exclusion of peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, and shellfish from the kitchen.
Qualifications
- At least two years of professional cooking experience in a school, restaurant, institutional kitchen, or similar food service environment.
- Experience preparing meals for individuals with food allergies and dietary restrictions.
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, allergen management, and cross-contamination prevention.
- ServSafe certification required.
- Culinary school education and/or additional professional training preferred.
- Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and remain active on your feet for extended periods, with shifts potentially lasting up to 10 hours, six days per week.
- Ability to commit to the full employment period, June 1–August 22, 2027.
- Willingness to work and live in a residential summer camp community with established camp policies and expectations.
Reports To
Head Chef, with collaboration and coordination with the Camp Director.
Compensation, Benefits & Camp Life
Working at Camp Emerson is an opportunity to put your culinary skills to use in a unique residential camp environment while enjoying the summer in the Berkshires.
Benefits include:
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Time off to explore Western Massachusetts, including the beautiful Berkshires, local towns, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.
- Shared staff housing with a private bathroom, providing comfortable on-site accommodations.
- Meals provided while on duty as part of the residential camp experience.
- A unique summer work environment in a welcoming, community-focused overnight camp.
- Opportunities to make a meaningful impact by helping children with dietary restrictions safely enjoy their camp experience.
- Potential reduced tuition for children attending Camp Emerson, subject to availability and camp policies.
Employment Dates
June 1–August 22, 2027.
Candidates should be available for the full employment period. Compensation and specific employment details will be discussed during the hiring process.
Join Camp Emerson for a summer of meaningful work, great people, and an unforgettable experience in the Berkshires of Massachusetts.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract, Temporary
Pay: $6,000.00 - $8,000.00 per year
Ability to Relocate:
- Hinsdale, MA 01235: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $6,000 - $8,000