Head Chef - Camp

5w1 month ago

Upper Crust Food Service

Avalon, NZ · Full-time · NZ$55,000 – NZ$70,000

About this role

Upper Crust Food Service is known for freshness, quality, variety, and excellent customer service, proudly serving Sororities and Fraternities. As the Head Chef, you will oversee all aspects of food preparation, kitchen management, and staff coordination to provide high-quality meals for camp participants.

Day-to-day, you will develop and manage the food budget, plan menus that meet nutritional needs and dietary restrictions, and monitor inventory to minimize waste. You will supervise and assist in food preparation, ensuring meals are prepared and presented to the highest standards while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe kitchen.

You will lead a team of hourly support staff, scheduling shifts, managing labor costs, and training staff on food safety and customer service. The kitchen environment demands strict adherence to cleanliness, sanitation, and health department regulations, with daily cleaning tasks and oversight of cleaning schedules.

This position offers the opportunity to take ownership of a camp kitchen operation, from menu development to staff mentorship, within a company that has remained true to its roots of great food and personal service. The role is highly competitive, and we are accepting resumes immediately.

Requirements

Proven experience in a head chef or kitchen management role, preferably in a camp or high-volume food service setting
Strong knowledge of food budget management and cost control
Expertise in menu planning that accommodates dietary restrictions, including allergies, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
In-depth understanding of food safety regulations and sanitation standards
Experience supervising, scheduling, and training kitchen staff
Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment
Commitment to delivering excellent customer service to both camp participants and staff

Responsibilities

Develop and manage the food budget for the camp season, ensuring all expenses stay within allocated limits
Plan menus that meet nutritional needs, dietary restrictions, and food preferences while maintaining budgetary constraints
Monitor inventory levels, order supplies as needed, and minimize food waste
Ensure the kitchen is organized, safe, and properly stocked at all times
Supervise and assist in food preparation, ensuring meals are prepared and presented to the highest standards
Maintain the highest level of cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen, dining area, and storage spaces
Supervise and schedule a team of hourly support staff, ensuring adequate coverage for all shifts
Enforce safe food handling practices and oversee proper use and maintenance of kitchen equipment