2026 - Culinary Professionals - Kitchen Manager / Head Chef - Seasonal Relocation Job is Not Local

Richmond, VA, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Seasonal
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Compensation

Salary
Range $62,400.00 - $72,000.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Day Shifts
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Benefits

competitive pay
bonus system
Room
Board
transportation expense assistance
seasonal summer contracts

Job Description

Wolfoods, Inc. is a pioneering company dedicated to redefining the traditional summer camp food experience across the United States. Operating summer camp kitchens from May through September, Wolfoods breaks away from the standard "camp food" approach, which typically involves freezer-to-table methods. Instead, the company emphasizes home-style scratch cooking, ensuring that campers receive fresh, healthy, and delicious meals throughout their summer camp experience. Wolfoods partners with camps committed to nutritional excellence and sustainability, offering a diverse menu that celebrates a balanced diet and promotes green initiatives. The kitchens and dining halls serve not only as meal centers but also as educational spaces where campers learn about the importance of nutritious eating and environmental responsibility. Every meal includes freshly baked goods from the camp bakery, a variety of entrees skillfully prepared by professionals, as well as options from fruit and yogurt bars and salad bars to accommodate diverse tastes and preferences. The company also prioritizes personalized care, expertly managing special diets ranging from Kosher to Nut Free, Gluten Free to Vegan, ensuring that no camper’s dietary needs are overlooked.

The role of Kitchen Manager / Head Chef at Wolfoods is a demanding and hands-on leadership position that requires an experienced and motivated professional to oversee all facets of food service operations within assigned summer camps. This is a seasonal, on-site position where staff live at the camp location, with room, board, and travel expense assistance provided. The chosen candidate will be responsible for flawlessly executing the Wolfoods Camp Food Service Program, which includes comprehensive menu planning, recipe execution, and strict adherence to sanitation protocols to prevent allergen cross-contamination. The Kitchen Manager / Head Chef must possess deep knowledge of food allergens and be capable of cooking for guests with complex and multiple dietary restrictions. They will lead and train kitchen and dining staff, ensuring high standards of food quality, service timing, and guest satisfaction. Communication skills are essential in this role, as the Kitchen Manager / Head Chef interacts daily with campers, staff of various roles, camp directors, and management while upholding the professionalism and quality standards synonymous with Wolfoods.

In addition to culinary duties, this role requires strong leadership and management skills, including staff scheduling, payroll management, inventory control, and budget oversight. The Kitchen Manager / Head Chef serves as the primary liaison between the camp and culinary operations, attending meetings and addressing concerns raised by camp leadership. The job demands a keen sense of urgency, initiative, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, often rustic environment under varying temperature conditions. Physical stamina is important, as the role entails long hours, standing for extended periods, and the ability to lift and carry heavy items. The standard workweek is approximately 70 hours over six days. Wolfoods values candidates who are self-motivated, team-oriented, and enthusiastic about contributing to a positive community atmosphere during the summer season.

This role offers a competitive pay package, a bonus system, and the unique opportunity to live and work in beautiful rustic locations while making a meaningful impact on the camp experience. Wolfoods is committed to equal opportunity employment and encourages applications from diverse candidates who meet the qualifications. This description outlines the essential functions and expectations but is not exhaustive of all duties or qualifications associated with this position.

Job Requirements

  • four plus years commercial kitchen experience
  • minimum three professional references required with application submission
  • must live on-site in a rural setting with the possibility of shared living spaces
  • must possess a ServSafe allergens certification before start of camp
  • must be able to cook from scratch
  • minimum six-day 70-hour work week
  • must be able to stand for long periods of time
  • must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds
  • must be able to bend, stretch, and reach for extended periods of time
  • ability to work under pressure in environments that are above or below average temperatures

Job Qualifications

  • four plus years commercial kitchen experience
  • minimum three professional references required with application submission
  • proficient in relevant skills relating to specific role
  • ability to self-motivate
  • able to both lead a team and take direction
  • must live on-site in a rural setting with the possibility of shared living spaces
  • ability to work under pressure in environments that are above or below average temperatures
  • must be able to stand for long periods of time
  • must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds
  • must be able to bend, stretch, and reach for extended periods of time
  • must possess a ServSafe allergens certification before start of camp
  • must be able to cook from scratch
  • institutional and batch cooking experience highly desired
  • looking for seasonal, summer opportunities
  • enjoy the challenge of a high-volume production kitchen and dining facility
  • embrace a teaching and learning culture
  • get excited about being a part of a team and community
  • are available to relocate for the summer season in a rustic living environment

Job Duties

  • perform all duties toward the goal of providing excellent guest service in an efficient manner
  • develop effective schedules for the staff based on levels of business and budgetary guidelines
  • schedule and coordinate all side work for personnel
  • maintain cleanliness and organization in the dining hall according to established standards of sanitation
  • maintain appearance and uniform standards
  • have a presence on the floor during meal periods to observe, monitor, and follow up on all areas of the dining hall operation
  • work with the chef on duty in maintaining high standards of food presentation and sanitation
  • train and develop all front of house dining personnel
  • provide ongoing feedback to all service personnel concerning standards and performance
  • communicate with the head chef and camp directors daily concerning all aspects of the dining hall operation
  • frequently interact with diners for general feedback
  • ensure the dining hall is open and prepared 15 minutes prior to service
  • implement a check list system to facilitate the dining hall throughout the day
  • follow Wolfoods initiatives for environmental practices to minimize wasted energy and resources
  • be knowledgeable of all menus and specifications
  • maintain constant follow up with dining hall standards
  • follow company standards for safety practices to minimize risk to self and others
  • be responsible for daily reporting
  • effectively communicate with subordinates, co-workers, and supervisors
  • motivate and foster a positive work environment
  • attend related in-service training and staff meetings
  • understand food safety as it pertains to special diet food preparations and cooking for individuals with allergies
  • professionally interact with campers, staff, and parents
  • control inventory
  • place orders
  • manage projects
  • uphold Wolfoods standards of service and quality
  • maintain health department sanitation standards
  • manage staff
  • build client relations
  • follow the comprehensive Wolfoods camp food training program
  • use weights and measures to properly execute recipes
  • prepare all menu items and special request events
  • follow standardized recipes
  • ensure that production is accurate in timing, quantity, quality, and plating
  • actively lead in planning, scheduling, directing, and training
  • understand the importance of cross utilization and utilizing excess production
  • estimate production needs, establish par levels, order adequate supplies, and maintain inventory
  • place accurate food orders ahead of time
  • ensure kitchen and equipment are maintained to health standards
  • teach and enforce safety regulations
  • perform specialized food preparation for events
  • assist in developing and tasting recipes
  • assist in planning menu
  • recommend equipment purchases
  • may act as a front of house supervisor when necessary

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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