Seasonal Cook - Cardigan Lodge

4-Month Seasonal Position Within: April 28, 2025 – November 1, 2025

 
Ready to dive into epic outdoor adventures and make a positive impact on the environment? Look no further than the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) - the oldest conservation, education, and recreation organization in the USA!  Our passion for the outdoors knows no bounds, and we want YOU to be a part of it. As an employee, you'll unlock access to exciting programs, policies, and procedures that empower you to make a real difference. Join the AMC team now and embark on the journey of a lifetime! 

Cardigan Lodge sits at the base of Cardigan Mountain in Alexandria, New Hampshire. The lodge offers a full-service experience to guests complete with dynamic hiking and ski trail systems available just outside the front door. The reservation serves campers, with 26 primitive campsites, and a rustic cabin that sits half a mile from the summit.   
 
 
AMC is seeking a seasonal Lodge Cook for Cardigan Lodge.  This entry-level position entails the preparation and execution of daily meals, inventory management, and maintaining a sanitized and orderly environment to provide an exceptional experience for each guest and visitor. Cardigan Lodge Crew is a full-time, seasonal position which includes room and board. The position requires excellent communication and teamwork skills and consistent support of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s mission. 

What You'll Be Doing At AMC

• Prepare all meals as scheduled and instructed according to pre-planned menus and established mealtimes 

• Assist the Cardigan Manager in creating appropriate menus for the season, holidays and specialty events 

• Inspect, clean, sanitize, and organize all areas of the kitchen daily 

• Monitor inventory and aid with food/supply orders on a weekly basis 

• Assist in the preparation, set-up and breakdown of table settings, coffee stations, buffets, and any additional special functions during work hours 

• Support and direct Kitchen Staff in the preparation, execution and cleaning duties for all meals utilizing on-site guidelines and resources 

• Participate in recycling & food recycling 

• Assist with other lodging operations including, but not limited to, housekeeping, outdoor tasks, and guest services 

• Implement energy conservation and environmentally sound practices in daily operation 

• Retain positive interactions and connections with supporting businesses and colleges 

• Participate in the success of communal living by committing to a respectful, clean, and safe environment 

What AMC Is Looking For

• Past experience in camp operations, hospitality and/or work in the outdoors is preferred.
• Exceptional public service skills and a commitment to the mission of the Appalachian Mountain Club.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Experience in preparing diverse, health-conscious meals including foods that incorporate fresh, local and/or organic ingredients in an institutional setting is preferred.
• Success in performing a wide range assigned tasks.
• Must be a team player, detail oriented, well organized, highly flexible, adaptable, and resourceful.
• Physical abilities needed: Ability to operate standard office computers and machines, plus maintenance equipment. Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds at the Lodge and in the backcountry. Ability to travel safely in the backcountry in all weather conditions.

What AMC Can Offer You

Salary range: $14.00/per hour

We are committed to fair compensation practices, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply. The initial salary represents our starting point, and our compensation philosophy is designed to reward and recognize the contributions of our employees as they grow within the organization. External candidates typically begin their journey with us at the starting point of the salary range. The final compensation offer will be based on factors such as experience, education, skills and geographic differential relevant to the position, and will be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits

• Room & Board:  Free Dorm-style room – meals included, too! 
• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 32 hours per week  
• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution
• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service 
• Other Team Member Perks:  
  • 30% discount on AMC Merchandise  
  • Free Annual AMC Membership 
  • 4 Free nights at AMC locations 
  • Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more! 

To Apply:

Please include a resume and cover letter. No phone calls or agencies please.

AMC encourages all interested candidates to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification. If you have a passion for the outdoors and believe your skills and experiences align with this role, we welcome your application. 

The Appalachian Mountain Club has zero tolerance for child abuse or placing children in danger. The AMC requires all employees who work in a program or facility which serves children, disabled persons, or the elderly to have a criminal background record check performed on their name annually with employment contingent upon satisfactory results.