Company description

Growing Routes is a Maine-based nonprofit that offers a variety of small-group programs and summer camps for all ages. Our focus is on nurturing confidence, creativity, and compassion throughout everything we do.

Our overnight summer camp, for girls ages 8-15, is located on a picturesque lakeside farm in midcoast Maine.

The farm is made up of woods, rolling fields, an apple orchard, frog pond, greenhouse, large barn, yoga & dance studio, nature trails, and 600 feet of private shoreline on the lake. Wildflowers grow throughout the farm, and apple, oak, and walnut trees provide shade for afternoon play. Each night, campers fall asleep to the ancient sounds of loons, crickets, and bullfrogs. The setting offers endless possibilities for adventure and exploration.

Veggie and flower gardens, berry bushes, and the orchard keep camp life connected to the rhythms of nature. Campers learn where food comes from, discover the joy of caring for plants, and experience the satisfaction of sharing what they’ve grown.

Camp at the farm is intentionally small, with a maximum of 8-20 campers (depending on the session), creating a relaxed, family-like atmosphere.

Job description

Job Title: Chef / Gardener
Location: Twigg Farm in Union, Maine
Employment Type: Seasonal (May 17th - August 20th)
Compensation: depending on experience and role scope, this position can be paid hourly (non-exempt) starting at $17.50/hr with overtime as applicable (this works out to $700/week based on a 40/hr work week)...or as a weekly salary (exempt) ranging from $875 -1,300 + housing and meals provided

Position Overview:
We are seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated person to join our summer camp in Maine as a Chef/Gardener. This individual will be responsible for cultivating and tending to our camp’s garden, providing fresh produce for meals, leading educational programs, and planning, ordering, cooking, and preparing delicious, wholesome meals for campers and staff.

You will play a crucial role in fostering a sense of connection to the environment and the land we live on, teaching campers about where their food comes from, and engaging them in hands-on cooking and gardening experiences.

The Chef/Gardener also plays a vital role in shaping campers’ daily experience and overall well-being. By providing fresh, healthy, and thoughtfully prepared meals, you help campers feel nourished, energized, and cared for—supporting both their physical health and emotional comfort. Meals at camp are not just about nutrition; they are about creating moments of connection, joy, and familiarity.

Although this role includes a range of responsibilities, it can be tailored to your unique skills and interests.

Key Responsibilities (details here):

• Garden Management
• Meal and Menu Planning
• Cooking and Baking
• Education and Camper Engagement
• Grocery Shopping, Ordering, and Supply Management
• Certified Food Protection Manager
• Living on the Farm
• Physical Requirements & Training

Qualifications:

• Experience in farming, gardening, or horticulture with a focus on sustainable practices.
• Professional culinary experience or a strong passion for cooking and menu planning.
• Interest in working with children and teaching them about gardening, cooking, and sustainability.
• Strong organizational skills for managing food production, meal preparation, budgeting, ordering, and grocery shopping.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a close-knit team.
• Willingness to live on-site and fully engage with camp life.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the USA without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Compensation and Benefits:

• depending on experience and role scope, this position can be paid hourly (non-exempt) starting at $17.50/hr with overtime as applicable (this works out to $700/week based on a 40/hr work week)...
• or as a weekly salary (exempt) ranging from $875 -1,300
• Housing provided on the camp premises.
• Meals provided from camp kitchen and garden produce.
• One day off per week, with additional time off during slower periods: more flexibility before camp begins in mid-June and after camp ends in mid-August.
• Free time during the day as the camp schedule allows.
• Professional Growth & Flexibility – Opportunity to be in charge of a kitchen and expand your cooking and gardening skills. You will have the freedom to bring your own ideas to life, adapt your schedule and timing, and shape your experience based on your skills, interests, and expertise.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by promoting sustainability, self-sufficiency, and a love for fresh, homemade food in a close-knit, outdoor-oriented camp environment. If you’re passionate about gardening, cooking, and working with kids, this job is for you!

Compensation

this position is: hourly, varies DOE, $17.50 - $32.50

Application instructions

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Deadline

April 20, 2026