Outcamping Food Specialist in Ctr. Tuftonboro, New Hampshire at AMERICAN YOUTH FOUNDATION

American Youth Foundation Mission

We dare people to discover and celebrate the very best in themselves and others; inspire them to explore diverse perspectives and complex challenges; and embolden them to live courageously, engaging their full capacity.

Job Summary

The Out Camping Food (OCF) Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day management of food supplies and meal planning for groups of campers as they participate in multi-day backpacking, canoe, and wilderness trips in primitive, backcountry environments. The OCF Specialist provides trip support onsite alongside the Out Camping Equipment (OCE) Specialist and Logistics Coordinator. Daily responsibilities include keeping an inventory of all food and packaging supplies, maintaining a schedule of groups arriving and departing, creating a menu specifically for each group and length of trip, assisting camper groups with food pack out, and instructing campers and staff on proper meal preparation. This role also assists with camp programming as needed.

Job Locations

• Merrowvista – Center Tuftonboro, New Hampshire
• The Merrowvista site necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain.
• The Out Camping Food Specialist lives onsite during staff training and the two camp sessions, including weekends and evenings, to be available 24 hours/day in case of emergencies (except days off).
• Housing and all meals are provided.

Job Type

Seasonal

Company Culture

The AYF believes that how we act and interact reflects who we are as a community. In practice, at the AYF we value investing in youth, stewarding the environment, encouraging participants and staff to explore and develop their values and beliefs, belonging in community, and growing together.

Recognizing the full value of all, the American Youth Foundation affords equal opportunity for employment and program participation to all individuals on the basis of merit and/or eligibility without regard to race, color, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, age, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Requirements

Position Responsibilities

• Maintain an organized, clean, safe, and functional food storage and packaging space.
• Ensure food safety is a priority. Dietary restrictions are planned for, accommodated, and proper food is sent on trips.
• Inventory all food and packaging supplies and place weekly orders for additional food.
• Ensure all camper groups are given the proper food needed for a healthy and successful backcountry trip.
• Lead camper groups in the pack out process and ensure each group leaves with enough food.
• Instruct campers and staff on proper food preparation practices based on each menu item.
• Clean, repair, and store all food and equipment appropriately.
• Assist with gear and food resupplies for longer trips, driving to meet groups in the backcountry; serve as an emergency driver and may be asked to drive a company vehicle on short notice.
• Provide additional assistance to the Food Program Manager, completing tasks for the all-camp food program as assigned.
• Participate in all camp programming: early morning and evening activities, meals, and daily reflections.
• Assist with camp programming and provide staff coverage when needed.
• Ensure the safety of campers at all times by following and implementing all safety standards.
• Build relationships with campers to foster friendly, nurturing, and age-appropriate group dynamics.
• Communicate daily with supervisor, attend staff meetings, and follow guidance and instruction from coordinators and directors.
• This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum age: 18 years old.
• Experience in outdoor adventure education or wilderness trip leading.
• Menu planning, backcountry cooking, and food packaging skills.
• Support the organization’s mission and vision with integrity, dependability, and accountability.
• Interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity. Establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and interpersonal skills that contribute to a positive community.
• Demonstrate passion for serving youth, encouraging campers to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
• Fully participate in and be present at all camp community activities, including staff training activities.
• Maintain effective mental, emotional, and social interactions in our youth-centered residential summer camp program.
• Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resiliency needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
• Use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness.
• Follow all guidelines and policies as described in the AYF (American Youth Foundation) staff manual.

Preferred:

• Leadership experience, including student, sports, club, team, or community leadership.
• Professional food service experience or academic study of culinary arts.
• A personality and character that exudes leadership, flexibility, trustworthiness, creativity, energy, inspiration, and positivity.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required for this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.