What are the responsibilities and job description for the Camp Cook-Overnight Summer Camp position at Sonoma County Family YMCA?
Camp Cook – Camp Ravencliff (Seasonal)
June 26 – August 2, 2026
$1,800–$2,200 per week
Living and working at an overnight summer camp from June 26-August 2. Room and board provided
About Camp Ravencliff
Camp Ravencliff is an overnight YMCA camp nestled in the redwoods, dedicated to creating safe, memorable, and meaningful experiences for children. Our staff work together as a close‑knit, mission‑driven community—and our kitchen plays a central role in keeping camp running smoothly each day.
Position Overview
The Camp Cook is a vital member of the Camp Ravencliff team, overseeing the full food‑service operation during the summer camp season. This role is responsible for planning menus, preparing and serving nutritious meals, supervising kitchen support staff, and maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming dining environment for campers and staff.
This is not a restaurant or small‑scale kitchen role. It is hands‑on, physically active, high‑volume work that directly supports camper well‑being and the overall camp experience. If you enjoy cooking for groups, thrive in a structured but fast‑paced environment, and value purposeful seasonal work, this role may be a great fit.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in accordance with YMCA standards and health regulations
- Plan menus and manage food purchasing, inventory, and vendor coordination
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen environment
- Supervise the Assistant Cook and kitchen support staff
- Plan and cook meals to accommodate campers with food allergies and special dietary needs
- Participate in staff meetings and required trainings
- Collaborate with camp leadership to support overall camp operations
What This Role Looks Like Each Day
- Cooking for a large group of campers and staff
- Early mornings, evenings, and weekend work
- Standing for extended periods in a warm, busy kitchen
- Following menu plans while adapting to real‑time camp needs
- Working as part of a team to keep camp running on schedule
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 2 years of food‑service experience, preferably cooking for large groups
- Strong understanding of nutrition, menu planning, and food safety
- Current ServSafe certification (required)
- Ability to work in a physically demanding, outdoor camp environment
- Reliable, organized, collaborative, and aligned with YMCA values
Relevant experience encouraged:
Overnight or day camps, school cafeterias, boarding schools, college dining services, retreat or conference centers, childcare or youth program kitchens, or other institutional food‑service settings. Formal culinary training is welcome but not required.
Why Work at Camp Ravencliff?
- Be part of a mission‑driven community making a real impact on children’s lives
- Enjoy meaningful seasonal work with purpose and structure
- Build strong relationships with staff and campers
- Opportunity for returning seasonal employment
- Room and board provided
Ready to Apply?
If you’re excited to bring your culinary skills to the redwoods and help create unforgettable summer experiences, we’d love to hear from you!
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
Sonoma County Family YMCA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Salary : $1,800 - $2,200