Special Diets Chef, Camp Barney

S pecial Diets Chef – Camp Barney Medintz

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and meticulous Special Diets Chef to join our kitchen team at a Jewish Summer Camp. This critical role is responsible for preparing safe, high-quality, kosher meals for campers with food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences, such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to precision, safety, and adherence to protocols to ensure the well-being of our camp community.

Responsibilities

· Prepare and cook meals for campers with food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary needs (e.g., vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free), ensuring strict compliance with kosher dietary laws.

· Follow recipes and production logs precisely, adhering to the specified menu without deviations unless explicitly approved by the Food Service Director.

· Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation to prevent cross-contamination and ensure compliance with food safety standards.

· Collaborate with the Food Service Director, Executive Chef, and Sous Chef to ensure seamless integration of special diet meals with overall kitchen operations.

· Monitor and manage ingredient inventory for special diets, ensuring proper storage and rotation (FIFO) to maintain freshness and safety.

· Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and camp leadership to address camper dietary needs and any concerns promptly.

· Complete the ServSafe Allergen training and certification (or equivalent) prior to or during employment, if not already certified.

· Stay informed about food allergy protocols, dietary restrictions, and best practices for preparing special diet meals.

Requirements

· Proven experience as a chef, preferably with a focus on special diets, food allergies, or dietary accommodations in a high-volume kitchen setting.

· Strong understanding of kosher dietary laws and experience preparing kosher meals.

· Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to following recipes and production logs without deviation.

· Knowledge of food allergies, intolerances, and dietary preferences (e.g., vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free) and their safe preparation.

· Ability to maintain a clean and safe workstation, with a strong emphasis on preventing cross-contamination.

· Willingness to complete the ServSafe Allergen training and certification.

· Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with kitchen staff and camp leadership.

· Flexibility to work long hours, including weekends, in a fast-paced, seasonal camp environment.

· Culinary training or equivalent professional experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

· Previous experience in a summer camp, institutional, or catering setting.

· Current ServSafe Allergen certification or equivalent.

· Experience developing or adapting recipes for special dietary needs while maintaining kosher standards.

What We’re Looking For

The Special Diets Chef plays one of the most critical roles in our camp community, ensuring that campers with food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences can safely enjoy meals. We are seeking a serious, dedicated candidate who understands the importance of precision, safety, and adherence to protocols. The ideal candidate will take pride in creating high-quality, safe, and delicious meals that meet the unique needs of our campers while contributing to a positive and collaborative kitchen environment.

Employment Details

· Position: Seasonal (Summer Camp)

· Location: Cleveland, GA

· Duration: May 14, 2027-August 8, 2027

· Compensation: Competitive salary plus room, board, meals, and fun camp activities are provided.