Kitchen

Cold Prep and Food Service Specialist

 Appel Farm Arts Camp: Kitchen Staff 2025

Job Title: Cold Prep and Food Service Specialist
Classification: Non-Exempt
Reports to:

• Head Chef / Kitchen Manager
• Sous Chef

Position Overview

The Cold Prep and Food Service Specialist plays a vital role in providing nutritious, safe, and appealing cold food options to campers and staff. This position requires attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment. The Cold Prep and Food Service Specialist is responsible for preparing and overseeing cold food items, maintaining food safety standards, assisting with meal service, and ensuring cleanliness and sanitation of the dining and food preparation areas.

Compensation & Schedule

• Pay Rate: $16.50 per hour
• Work Schedule:
  • June 22 – August 2: 35 to 8 hours per week (schedule will vary based on camp needs)

Essential Job Functions

Cold Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare cold food items including salad bar, sandwich bar and breakfast bar offerings.
• Oversee the salad and sandwich bars, ensuring they are well-stocked with fresh ingredients and properly arranged for easy access by campers and staff.
• Ensure that food items meet camp dietary standards and accommodate campers with food allergies or specific dietary needs.
• Monitor and maintain the quality and freshness of cold food items throughout meal service, ensuring proper storage and temperature control.
• Assist in the preparation of pack-out food (e.g., packed sandwiches, salads, snacks) when needed for off-site activities.

Food Service Management

• Serve food in an efficient and friendly manner during mealtime, ensuring positive interactions with campers and staff.
• Oversee the smooth operation of the cold food stations, ensuring cleanliness and safety protocols are maintained during the meal service.
• Maintain a positive and calm demeanor, especially during busy mealtimes, ensuring campers feel welcome and are served in a timely manner.
• Assist in setting up and breaking down food service areas, ensuring all food items are stored properly after service.
• Regularly check the temperature of cold food items to ensure they are within safe serving temperatures.
  

Dining Area & Table Maintenance

• Regularly clean and sanitize dining tables and chairs between meals, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic dining environment.
• Clear used plates, utensils, and trays quickly to maintain cleanliness in the dining area, allowing space for incoming meals.
• Ensure that condiment stations and drink stations are stocked and organized, keeping the dining area inviting.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all food safety and sanitation protocols to ensure food is prepared and served in a safe and hygienic manner.
• Assist in the cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation areas, including the salad bar, sandwich bar, and breakfast bar, between meal services.
• Report any food safety or sanitation issues (e.g., equipment malfunctions, unsanitary conditions) to the kitchen manager.
• Regularly wash hands and ensure all staff adhere to hand-washing and hygiene protocols during food prep and service.
• Ensure proper disposal of food waste, following sustainable practices where possible, including composting and recycling.

Team Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with other kitchen staff, including cooks, dishwashers, and supervisors, to ensure the smooth running of the kitchen and dining services.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen management and fellow staff members to ensure all food service areas are appropriately stocked and prepared for meal service.
• Provide feedback on food quality, meal service, and customer service in order to continually improve the dining experience for campers and staff.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in food service, particularly in cold food preparation, buffets, or cafeteria-style dining, is preferred.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, including temperature control, sanitation, and allergen management.
• Strong attention to detail, especially when it comes to food presentation and cleanliness.
  
• Ability to work efficiently and independently while maintaining a positive attitude in a busy environment.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well with others in a team setting.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to assist with other food prep or kitchen-related tasks as needed.
  

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Understanding of safe food handling practices and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work quickly while maintaining high standards of food quality and cleanliness.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks at once during meal service.
• Ability to respond to changing needs in the kitchen or dining area, adjusting priorities as needed.
• A friendly and approachable demeanor, especially when serving campers and staff.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods (60+ minutes) and perform tasks while walking.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of food or kitchen supplies.
• Capability to work in a hot kitchen and handle food-service equipment safely.
• Ability to follow food safety guidelines and ensure the safe operation of kitchen equipment.

Perks & Benefits

• Daily meals provided during shifts.
• Opportunity to attend Friday night concerts and other camp activities.
  Work in a dynamic, arts-centered camp environment, contributing to the camp’s mission and community.
• Opportunity to gain experience in food service and camp operations.
  

Application Process

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience to dcooke@appelfarm.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.