Camp Big Bear - Head Cook

Santa Monica Family YMCA•Big Bear Lake, CA

About The Position

Under the leadership of the Camp Big Bear Director, this position supports the YMCA's mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility by overseeing all kitchen operations. Responsibilities include ensuring food safety, preparing nutritious meals, and maintaining clean, welcoming kitchen and dining spaces in alignment with YMCA standards and policies. This position is responsible for delivering safe, high-quality meal service while helping create a warm, inclusive atmosphere for all campers, staff, and volunteers.

Requirements

Minimum of 3–5 years of professional cooking experience, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably in a camp, school, or institutional setting.
Current ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification (or ability to obtain prior to start date) in compliance with the County of San Bernardino Department of Public Health.
Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation practices, and compliance with local Health Department and ACA standards.
Experience planning and preparing meals for large groups in a high-volume setting, inventory management, ordering, and cost control.
Demonstrated ability to accommodate diverse dietary needs, including food allergies, vegetarian/vegan diets, and other restrictions.
Proven leadership skills with the ability to train, supervise, and motivate a diverse team of staff.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to maintain accurate records and logs in compliance with health and safety regulations.
CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations: American Red Cross American Heart Association American Safety & Health Institute

Responsibilities

Follow YMCA health, safety, and communicable disease protocols to maintain a safe environment for campers, staff, and guests.
Ensure all food is prepared, handled, and served according to YMCA standards, ACA guidelines, and local Health Department regulations.
Plan and prepare nutritious, high-quality meals that align with established menus, recipes, and schedules.
Provide leadership, supervision, and training to kitchen staff while fostering a positive, inclusive team environment.
Develop and implement balanced, appealing menus that meet the diverse needs of the camp community.
Accommodate all dietary needs, including allergies, sensitivities, and preferences, with care and inclusion.
Maintain accurate kitchen records, including temperature logs, food waste, chemical levels, equipment maintenance, and sanitation checks.
Collaborate with the Camp Director on menu planning, purchasing, inventory, and cost control.
Create a welcoming dining environment and build positive relationships with campers, staff, volunteers, and guests.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
Support additional camp operations as needed, including housekeeping, facility upkeep, and events.
Communicate effectively with camp leadership about kitchen operations, needs, and improvements.
Maintain professionalism and contribute to a respectful, inclusive, mission-driven culture.
Support the camp experience by using mealtime to build community and promote youth development.