Relief Head Chef - Shoals Marine Lab

The University System of New Hampshire (USNH) is a prestigious network of public institutions committed to providing a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. The system includes the University of New Hampshire (UNH), a Carnegie R1 research institution located in Durham, New Hampshire. UNH is renowned for its comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, boasting over 13,000 students and a dedicated faculty of more than 600 members. Situated on a picturesque 188-acre campus near the Atlantic coast and within reach of New Hampshire's famed lakes and mountains, UNH offers an enriching educational setting. The University System promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a campus culture where individuals of varied backgrounds and life experiences can thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared academic inquiry. The system is also an equal opportunity employer, committed to nondiscriminatory hiring practices based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, and more.

This position is pivotal within the Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML), a seasonal residential teaching facility located on Appledore Island in the Isles of Shoals, Maine. Unique in its mission, SML supports students, faculty, researchers, visitors, and staff who come together to form a close-knit and sustainable community from May through September each year. The role of Kitchen Operations Supervisor at SML involves overseeing the complete operations of the Kitchen, which serves more than 20 meals per week to up to 100 island residents, day visitors, and special catering groups. A key focus of the position is the preparation of meals primarily from scratch using locally sourced ingredients from farms and fishers, aligning with SML’s emphasis on sustainability and reducing food waste.

Responsibilities include culinary leadership, menu planning, meticulous food purchasing, budgeting, and maintaining relationships with food suppliers. The role includes supervising a diverse team, consisting of kitchen staff, student workers, and volunteers, managing schedules, and ensuring a professional and respectful work environment. Additionally, the supervisor is accountable for compliance with health and safety standards set by Maine Department of Health, FDA HACCP, and Serve Safe guidelines to uphold a safe and sanitary kitchen. They must maintain an environment that encourages inclusion and community engagement, effectively communicating food sourcing and menu plans to island residents. The position also requires readiness for emergency response during duty hours and involvement as a crew member on commercial vessels, including small craft operation. This is a physically demanding job that calls for ability to work long hours, lift heavy items, and contribute to the community-oriented lifestyle that defines life on a remote island. Compensation for this demanding yet rewarding role is $1,900 per week, with room and board provided on Appledore Island. This provides a unique opportunity for culinary professionals interested in an immersive experience tying together education, community, and environmental stewardship.