Description
Job Title: Chef / Gardener
Location: Twigg Farm in Union, Maine
Employment Type: Seasonal (May 17th - August 20th), camp in session during summer
Compensation: Weekly stipend of $700 -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 on sustainable farming and planning, shopping, 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
Compensation and Benefits:
- Weekly stipend of $700 - $1,300 depending on experience.
- Housing provided on the camp premises.
- Meals provided from camp kitchen and garden produce.
- Weekly time off, 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!
Application Process: All applicants must complete the formal application process, which includes:
- Submit an online written application
- Submit references
- Pass criminal background check
- Complete 2–4 interviews
To include a Cover Letter with your application, please email info@growingroutes.org
Interested but not yet ready to apply? Fill out the interest form!
*Only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
Requirements
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.
