What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kitchen Assistant position at Camp Tamarack?
Camp Tamarack is seeking a Kitchen Assistant to help prepare and serve nutritious meals for 150–200 campers and staff in the Deschutes National Forest. This seasonal role supports three daily meals, maintains kitchen cleanliness and food safety standards, and adapts recipes to meet diverse dietary needs. The Kitchen Assistant works with the Head Chef and a small team, contributing to the positive, community-focused experience that defines our Outdoor School and Summer Camp programs. Ideal candidates are flexible, reliable, and excited to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Responsibilities
- Work 40-45 hours per week on a Sun-Thurs or Mon-Fri schedule.
- Assist with preparation of nutritious, well-balanced meals that cater to both staff and youth program participants.
- Safely prepare and serve meals meeting the specific dietary needs of program participants such as vegetarian, gluten-free, severe allergies and more.
- Maintain food handling and sanitation practices in accordance with Oregon Food Handler’s certification.
- Wash dishes, clean kitchen equipment and maintain cleanliness standards in the kitchen and dining areas.
- Follow recipes closely, while also being able to adapt and improvise when necessary to accommodate specific needs or make use of leftovers and minimize food waste.
- Help facilitate youth recreation programming such as canoeing and archery.
Requirements
- Ability to assist in preparation of meals for 150-200 people, including menu planning, cooking and presentation.
- Ability to cook for diverse needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, lactose-free, and other allergy-aware needs.
- Must possess a valid Oregon Food Handler’s Card and demonstrate strong knowledge of food safety standards, kitchen cleanliness and proper storage techniques.
- Strong interpersonal skills including positive communication, flexibility, dependability and conflict resolution.
- Alignment with our organizations values of Growth, Connection, and Curiosity.
- Commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for all staff and program participants.
- Ability to work long hours on your feet, often in a hot kitchen environment.
Compensation
- $615-$660 weekly salary, paid monthly
- On-site housing in shared staff quarters provided for the full employment season.
- Internet, utilities, and laundry facilities provided on-site.
- All meals provided when programming is taking place.
- Paid Sick or Sad Time - 1 paid day earned for each session (1 for the Spring, 1 for the Summer, and 1 for the Fall).
- Paid Time Off - 1 paid day earned for each session (1 for the Spring, 1 for the Summer, and 1 for the Fall).
Season Dates
- Spring Outdoor School April 13th-June 3rd
- Summer Camp: June 15th-August 28th
- Fall Outdoor School: September 14th-October 29th
Want to learn more?
You can visit our website for more information and a full job description! We have several more job postings available to check out on our website! https://www.camptamarack.com/employment
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to calypso@camptamarack.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $615.00 - $650.00 per week
Benefits:
- Food provided
Work Location: In person
Salary : $615 - $650