Kitchen Director

Who We Are:

NatureBridge provides environmental science education experiences for more than 30,000 students and their teachers every year in the world’s best classrooms: our National Parks. Our mission is to connect young people to the science and wonder of the natural world, igniting self-discovery, and inspiring stewardship of the planet. 

What You Will Do:

The Kitchen Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, production, and service of food to ensure high-quality and efficient food service operations for all participants. Working closely with the Head Chef and kitchen staff, the Director ensures smooth operations through effective leadership and collaboration with the Conference, Facilities, and Education departments to maintain high standards in dining service and cleanliness.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities 

Supervision and Support

• Foster a productive and healthy department culture.
• Recruit, hire, train, and onboard kitchen staff, including direct supervision of the Head Chef and Kitchen Manager.
• Conduct regular staff training to enhance skills and performance, and Provide ongoing coaching and development for team members
• Manage staff performance, including providing feedback, addressing issues, and conducting annual performance reviews.
• Lead monthly kitchen team meetings and create weekly schedules.
• Ensure staff compliance with certifications and role-specific requirements (e.g., ServSafe).
• Provide hands-on support and fill in for roles as needed.

Operations

• Develop, monitor, and update the annual department budget.
• Create and implement departmental goals for improvement and growth.
• Maintain accurate records and operational documents using database systems and Google Docs.
• Develop standard operating procedures as needed.
• Attend leadership team meetings and represent the kitchen during tours with stakeholders (e.g., NatureBridge national team, National Park Service, Public Health Inspectors).
• Review and approve staff timesheets bi-monthly.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations to maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable campus.
• Oversee inventory, ordering, and purchasing of kitchen supplies.
• Collaborate with Human Resources and the Campus Director for staff recruitment and onboarding.

Food Service

• Oversee all aspects of food preparation, production, and service.
• Develop and train staff on recipes and food handling protocols to ensure safety and quality.
• Ensure menus are posted weekly and respond to participant dietary needs and restrictions.
• Conduct regular inventory checks and process supplier invoices.
• Model exceptional customer service and communication.

Compensation:

• $65,000-70,000/year starting salary
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Option for a 403b retirement plan with employer match after 6 months
• Generous paid vacation, training days, and sick leave.
• Other benefits include Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and more

Who You Are:

We are looking for candidates who have:

• Degree in Culinary Arts or three to five years of related experience.
• Skilled in large-scale food preparation, preferably in an educational or recreational setting.
• Experience managing high-volume, fast-paced kitchen operations.
• Proven ability to supervise and guide kitchen staff positively and constructively.
• Familiarity with accommodating varied dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Proficiency with Google Docs and basic database systems.
• ServSafe Manager Certification (current).
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is strongly preferred. Some proficiency with Spanish required.
• Strong customer service, communication, time management, and organizational skills.

• Ability to develop and adhere to budgets ranging from $300K to $500K.
• Effective verbal and written communication. 

• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion in the workplace. We especially encourage you to apply if you are a member of (or have extensive experience working with people from) any communities that are impacted by the historic and current system of oppression that has limited access to environmental education, or the outdoors in general.

If you are interested in the role and do not meet every requirement listed, please still apply! We are interested in applicants with unique lived experience and skillsets.

*All NatureBridge Employees are required to pass a background check in order to be eligible for employment.

Why should you join the NatureBridge team?

• We are a mission-driven organization that values your contributions and supports you in making a positive impact on youth and the environment
• You will get to work in a beautiful natural setting with other dedicated staff who are passionate about the environment
• Work with a supportive leadership team that values your professional growth.

NatureBridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate based on any protected category, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, gender, gender expression (including transgender expression or pregnancy), political affiliation, age, immigration status or disability. We encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Please let us know if you require any accommodation. 

How To Apply:

Submit your application to our Online Career Portal.  Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled