Respite Chef

Location: The League for People with Disabilities – Camp Greentop / Weekend Respite Programs

Job Type: Part-Time / Seasonal (Weekends, with potential for extended summer hours)

Salary: $900 - $1,000 per weekend respite

Reports To: Camp Director / Food Services Manager

About The League for People with Disabilities

At The League, we believe in creating opportunities for individuals of all abilities to live, learn, work, and play as independently as possible. Our Camp Respite and Camp Greentop programs provide a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment for youth and adults with disabilities to connect, grow, and thrive.

Position Summary

We are seeking a creative and compassionate Camp Respite Chef to lead the preparation and service of nutritious meals for campers, staff, and volunteers during weekend respite programs and/or summer camp sessions. The ideal candidate is not only a skilled chef but also someone who thrives in a community-focused environment and is committed to inclusive service.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Planning & Preparation:
  Design and prepare balanced, allergy-aware meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) that meet the dietary needs of a diverse camper population.

• Special Diet Accommodations:
  Collaborate with nursing and program staff to ensure all food allergies, dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, vegetarian, texture-modified), and cultural preferences are respected.

• Kitchen Operations:
  Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen that complies with health department standards and food safety protocols (HACCP, ServSafe, etc.).

• Team Leadership:
  Supervise and support kitchen assistants or volunteers; provide clear direction in a high-energy, time-sensitive environment.

• Camper Experience:
  Support a welcoming dining experience that enhances camper morale and community; be a friendly and familiar presence in the camp dining hall.

• Inventory & Budgeting:
  Monitor inventory levels, manage food orders within budget, and reduce food waste through smart planning.

Qualifications

• Required:

  • Prior experience as a chef, cook, or food service lead (preferably in a camp, school, or institutional setting)

  • Knowledge of food safety regulations (ServSafe certification required or must be obtained prior to start)

  • Ability to work weekends and flexible hours during respite weekends and/or summer sessions

  • Comfort working around people with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities

• Preferred:

  • Experience preparing meals for special diets and allergens

  • Background in inclusive or therapeutic recreation programs

  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Core Competencies

• Adaptability: Able to pivot in fast-paced settings and adjust meals based on last-minute needs or dietary changes

• Empathy: Understands the importance of food as part of care, inclusion, and comfort

• Team-Oriented: Works collaboratively with program staff, volunteers, and health professionals

• Organized & Efficient: Manages time and resources well to serve meals on schedule with minimal waste

Why Join Us?

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of campers and their families

• Be part of a mission-driven organization with a rich history of inclusion and advocacy

• Enjoy a collaborative, fun, and rewarding work environment where no two days are the same

• Access to training, professional development, and team events

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary - $900 - $1,000 per weekend respite

• Meals provided during shift

• Opportunities for additional seasonal work during summer camp

• A fun, supportive team environment in a beautiful camp setting