North Cascades Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.

North Cascades Institute is a respected leader among U.S. environmental education organizations, and we believe that sustainable communities are built on healthy environments, vibrant economies and social equity. The Institute is in sound financial health with a $4 million budget and strong reserves, and 15 four-star ratings with Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.

SUMMARY

North Cascades Institute seeks a qualified, enthusiastic professional cook to join our Kitchen Team. Based out of the Institute’s field campus in North Cascades National Park, this position supports food services at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center, which serves up to 80 children and/or adults per day most weeks. This position works closely with many Institute staff, partners and contractors to support a wide array of educational programs. This includes the Foodshed Project, the Institute’s initiative to incorporate local, organic products in the operation of the Learning Center.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Enthusiasm for and experience with “Foodshed” principals and the “Slow Food” movement.
• One year or more professional food service experience.
• Ability to take initiative and prioritize tasks with exemplary time management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to give and receive direction in a way that models respect.
• Ability to comply with a smoke- and drug-free work environment.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds consistently.
• Final offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check that may include employment history, national criminal background check, national sex offender registry search and a driving history check.

Preferred:

• Previous food service experience at other residential learning centers, camps, schools or similar facilities.
• Professional food service experience in an institutional setting, preparing diverse, health-conscious meals for children and adult groups, including foods that incorporate fresh, local and/or organic ingredients.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Food Service and Preparation:

• Prepares food on a daily basis for meals typically served buffet-style.
• Assists in creating age and diet appropriate menus for NCI’s summer programming (families, tour groups, adult seminars, etc.), using recipes for consistency, cost control and appealing servings avoiding unnecessary waste.
• Other duties as assigned by the Food Services Manager or Learning Center Director.

Maintenance and Cleanliness:

• Maintains exemplary standards of cleanliness in the dining hall, kitchen and walk-in.
• Assists in ware-washing program and customer service.
• Actively participates in recycling program, composting, use of green materials and local products as related to food service.

General:

• Participates in general staff responsibilities such as staff meetings, hands to work, and risk management.
• Support equity initiatives at North Cascades Institute and actively contribute to NCI as a community of belonging that is welcoming and accessible to everyone. Develop a personal equity, diversity, and inclusion related goal(s) and track progress towards your goal(s) with your supervisor.
• Participates in strategic planning, annual picnic, and other duties as assigned by the Learning Center Director.

COMPENSATION

This is a seasonal/temporary, full-time (32-40 hours per week) non-exempt position, beginning August 12, 2022 through December 16, 2022. Wage is $18.00 to $19.00 per hour, DOE. The North Cascades Institute is pleased to offer Recruitment Incentive Bonuses to new employees in certain positions. In this Seasonal Cook position, an employee who successfully works from the start of hire through the December 16, 2022 seasonal completion date will earn a $1,500 Seasonal Completion Bonus. 

Benefits also include sick leave and holiday pay. Shared staff rental housing may be available at $150-$300 per month. Pets and smoking are not allowed in housing or on campus.
 

START DATE

Mid-August