Resident Camp on-site Cook

 The Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team.
Camp Description
YMCA of Greater Bergen County operates traditional day and resident camps in Harriman State Park, NY, along Lake Kanawauke, providing a beautiful natural setting. The camp is 45 minutes from Hackensack, where our YMCA is located; all counselors and campers are bused to camp from the YMCA. Camp activities include swimming, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, sports & games, archery, nature, hiking, rock climbing, and challenge/low ropes course. Camp is co-ed for youth ages 5-16.
Job Description

We are an all - inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team.  Sign on bonus may apply

YMCA of Greater Bergen County, a branch of the Metro YMCAs of the Oranges, operates traditional day and resident camps in Harriman State Park, NY, along Lake Kanawauke, providing a beautiful natural setting. The camp is 45 minutes from Hackensack, where our YMCA is located; all counselors and campers are bused to camp from the YMCA. Camp activities include swimming, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, sports & games, archery, nature, hiking, rock climbing, and challenge/low ropes course.

We seek a Resident Camp On-Site Cook, who will be responsible for all phases of the meal process, ensuring quality food handling, maintiaining clean and sanitary conditions in accordance to Board of Health regulations. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit commited to stregnthing the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. 

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent. Culinary school preferred.
  • Minimum of three (2) years proven cooking experience in an institution or large kitchen operation. Camp operation a plus.
  • Strong time management and organizational skills.
  • Strong knowledge of utilizing kitchen equipment and tools.
  • Strong knife/cutting skills; food preparation and presentation.
  • Strong commitment to following all sanitation procedures.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build team spirit, communicate with all levels of staff.
  • Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
  • CPR, First Aid and AED certifications may be required.  
Essential Functions
  • Interpret menu to ensure quantities include the possibility of second servings, and recipes to provide nutritious appetizing and good tasting items for the given number of people to be served.
  • Work with Director on food orders, manage deliveries and minimize waste.
  • Preparing meals for special diets as needed.
  • Follow state health department regulations pertaining to safe food practice
  • Supervise and manage two kitchen staff
  • Ensure food preparation areas and serving areas are safe and sanitary utilizing best practice in food handling. Ensure quality of ingredients.
  • In advance of the meal preparation, remove items from the freezer, and ensure there is enough time for it to defrost according to Board of Health regulations.
  • Determine the necessary food and ingredients are on hand in advance of menu/meal preparation.
  • Time management in meal preparation is critical to ensure meals are served on time.
  • Be innovative and flexible to use leftovers, within approved Board of Health regulations whenever and wherever possible, to supplement or replace a scheduled menu item with Food Service Director’s approval.
  • Ensure and put into regular practice good housekeeping, personal hygiene according to state health codes includes cleaning equipment, stoves, ovens, refrigeration, and other work surfaces/areas while preparing and storing food.
  • Communicate with Food Service Director of any supply shortages, mechanical, structural repair needs.
  • Assist the Food Service Director with planning and preparation for special events, cookouts, bag lunches, pack-outs to ensure the smooth operation of food service operations.
  • Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.
  • Perform a final shutdown and deep clean at the end of the season.  
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Required Certifications

Certification in CPR/AED and First Aid.