Second Cook

A Second Cook at a seasonal camp like Diamond Arrow balances food prep with leadership duties, often running one meal service daily, mentoring young kitchen staff, and ensuring smooth operation during busy summer months. This role requires adaptability to camp life and a focus on community-driven culinary service.

Strong multitasking, quantity cooking expertise, and safe food handling are critical. A Second Cook should be adept at meal planning for large groups, leading small teams, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness—all vital for delivering timely, quality meals at a busy Christian conference center.

This position offers hands-on leadership experience by guiding young cooks and managing meal services, providing a stepping stone toward head cook or kitchen manager roles. It also fosters skills in inventory management, team mentoring, and ministry-focused hospitality, valuable in food service careers.

CCCA emphasizes a Christ-centered atmosphere, combining culinary duties with ministry-minded teamwork. The role involves servant leadership, fostering community, and supporting camp mission, making the work experience more than just cooking but a meaningful service opportunity.

Yes, the Second Cook is expected to lead at least one meal service daily and actively mentor young adult kitchen staff. This involves guiding food prep, service, and cleanup while modeling servant leadership aligned with the camp’s Christian values.

The role offers $600 weekly plus dorm-style housing and meals during camper service, which is competitive for seasonal cook positions in Nevada City. Including housing significantly offsets living costs, making this package attractive compared to typical local part-time or entry-level cook salaries.

Nevada City sees steady seasonal demand for cooks in hospitality and retreat centers, especially during summer months. Candidates with camp kitchen experience and food handler certifications tend to have an advantage due to the specialized environment and community focus.

A valid California Food Handler’s Card is highly recommended and often required. Although the position allows obtaining certification upon hire, having it beforehand demonstrates commitment and familiarity with local health standards, boosting employment prospects.

Managing large meal volumes under time pressure while mentoring a youthful team can be challenging. Effective communication, organization, and patience help maintain smooth kitchen flow. Embracing the ministry aspect provides motivation to serve guests and staff with care and excellence.

This job merges cooking skills with purposeful service in a faith-based community, offering a unique chance to impact lives through hospitality. The role encourages spiritual growth alongside culinary leadership, ideal for those passionate about combining vocation and ministry.