Camp Chef

Camp Sacramento is a seasonal facility located in the Eldorado National Forest in Twin Bridges, California, operating primarily from May through October. Managed by the City of Sacramento, this camp provides outdoor recreational and educational programs in a natural forest setting, requiring dedicated staff to maintain operational excellence and deliver high-quality services. As a part-time, non-career position, the Camp Chef role plays a critical part in ensuring the smooth operation of food service activities during the active camp months. This role is seasonal and part-time with a work limit of up to 1040 hours annually, tailored for individuals seeking meaningful work in a unique outdoor environment during the warmer months.

The Camp Chef is responsible for overseeing the dining hall, kitchen, and overall food preparation services at Camp Sacramento. The primary objective is to maintain the highest quality control of all meals, manage food inventory, keep accurate records, oversee the proper functioning and upkeep of food service equipment and supplies, and supervise the food services staff. Reporting directly to the Camp Manager, the Camp Chef holds a supervisory role with indirect oversight of the Assistant Camp Chef and other junior personnel. This role requires hands-on involvement in meal preparation, menu planning in collaboration with the Camp Manager, and ensuring sanitary and safe food handling practices throughout the kitchen and dining areas.

This unique position demands a candidate who can skillfully manage food operations in a large-scale camp setting, focusing on minimizing waste while maintaining delicious and nutritious meals that meet the needs of a diverse camper population. The Camp Chef will schedule and coordinate food service staff to effectively prepare and serve a variety of dishes including main courses, meats, salads, desserts, and baked goods, utilizing commercial cooking equipment such as ovens and stoves. Preparing ingredients by cleaning, chopping, weighing, and measuring is also an integral component of daily duties.

To succeed in this role, candidates must adhere to strict food safety and sanitation guidelines, ensuring that all food preparation areas and equipment are cleaned and maintained regularly to meet health standards. The Camp Chef is also responsible for ordering food and supplies with accuracy, managing inventories, and fostering a collaborative and efficient team environment.

This position requires flexibility and commitment, with the necessity to reside on-site during peak months and work various shifts including nights and weekends. Candidates must be willing to navigate the physical demands of working outdoors in variable weather conditions at high elevation and must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. Additionally, this role necessitates a high level of personal hygiene and the ability to foster positive working relationships within the camp staff community.

Candidates are required to undergo a thorough selection process including application screening, supplemental questionnaires, physical and criminal background assessments, tuberculosis screening, and mandatory training including a specific module for Mandatory Reporter compliance. Preferred certifications include ServSafe food handler certification and a valid California Class C Driver License, though these are not mandatory for application. This role does not offer benefits but provides a unique and rewarding opportunity to be part of the City of Sacramento’s camp operations team in an inspiring natural environment.