Assistant Chef Shoals Marine Lab

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a distinguished R1 Carnegie classification research institution located in Durham, New Hampshire. With a sprawling 188-acre campus situated just 60 miles north of Boston and a short drive from the Atlantic coast, UNH boasts a vibrant academic community of approximately 13,000 students and over 600 full-time faculty members. The university offers a broad spectrum of educational programs including 90 undergraduate and more than 70 graduate degree options. Committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, UNH encourages the pursuit of academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry among individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

The Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML), a remote, residential teaching facility located on Appledore Island in the Isles of Shoals, Maine, is part of UNH's unique offerings. Operating seasonally from May through September, SML supports students, faculty, researchers, visitors, and staff within a close-knit, sustainable community dedicated to marine science education and research. The campus on Appledore Island presents a distinctive work environment that requires collaboration, adaptability, and a strong community spirit among all members.

The position available at Shoals Marine Laboratory is for a full-time Kitchen Assistant, scheduled from May 4 to September 6, 2026. This role is a residential position requiring candidates to live on the island for five nights each week and commit to a 40-hour workweek, with occasional overtime. Compensation is competitive, offering a rate of $25 per hour. The primary responsibility of this position is to assist in meal preparation and kitchen operations, ensuring up to 100 residents and visitors receive high-quality food service in a manner that prioritizes sustainability and minimizes waste.

The Kitchen Assistant will be instrumental in preparing approximately 20 meals per week for the diverse community of SML, including students, faculty, researchers, and day visitors. Duties will include cooking, cleaning, dishwashing, food storage, and transportation, all while maintaining a safe and sanitary kitchen environment. Beyond culinary responsibilities, the role demands exceptional customer service skills and the ability to foster an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Candidates must also be prepared to serve as crew members aboard commercial vessels, assist with supply runs, and respond promptly to emergencies on the island, emphasizing the physically demanding nature of the work.

This unique role blends culinary expertise with operational support, sustainability-focused practices, and community collaboration. It requires the ability to work effectively in an isolated, physically demanding, and often fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong communication abilities, organizational skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to contribute beyond the traditional scope of kitchen duties to support the overall mission and daily functioning of Shoals Marine Laboratory.

The University of New Hampshire values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the successful candidate will play a role in implementing initiatives that support these principles within the SML community. Additionally, the university maintains a strict commitment to safety, evidenced by required background checks, drug testing, and child safety training for all youth program staff. This ensures a secure and supportive environment for all personnel and visitors. Overall, this position offers a rare opportunity to engage deeply with a unique scientific community, contribute to sustainable food service operations, and live and work in a stunning island setting, perfect for those passionate about marine science, education, and community living.